Grants for Business Owners in Muskegon County
The 2025 grant application period has ended. Thank you to all who applied!
THE BUSINESS 
EQUITY INITIATIVE (BEI) FUND is a community project launched by a group of Muskegon County donors concerned about equity and wishing to support an economy that works for all. Northern Initiatives is working in partnership with the Community Foundation for Muskegon County in administering the grants.
The Business Equity Initiative Fund
The Business Equity Initiative Fund assists women business owners, particularly low- to moderate-income people, with access to capital and funding support not available through traditional loans.
We seek to develop and support entrepreneurship and expand the capacity of these businesses in Muskegon County and in alignment with the Community Foundation of Muskegon County’s strategic objective of fostering a dynamic local economy.
Eligibility for BEI Fund Grants
- Women business owners, especially low-to moderate-income people, at least 18 years old
- Business located in Muskegon County
- Registered as a business in the County of Muskegon or the State of Michigan
- Business operational for 1-5 years
- Willingness to utilize the business resources available in Muskegon County for education and mentoring
Application Process (Deadline Feb. 13)
You can view the application here. It takes about 10 minutes to complete. Be ready to answer:
- Describe your business (250 words)
- How will this grant impact your business moving forward (200 words)
- Grant amount requested ($1,000-$5,000)
- What will you use this grant for (select all that apply, see below)
- Legal Business Name and Tax ID number
- Applicant and business demographics
- Number of employees
- Business structure
For those who are selected, there will be additional documentation, including Specialized Licenses and Certificates, ACH, Certificate of Good Standing, and a W-9.
Ready to apply? The application is here!
Grant Awards
Grants will be awarded in the range of $1,000-$5,000 and will be announced in March. Funds must be used to support your business. Wages and salary not applicable. Grants may be used for needs such as:
- Rent or lease payments
- Utilities
- Machinery and equipment
- Marketing, materials and/or website development
- Inventory and supplies
- Furniture and fixtures
- Licenses and permits
Grant recipients will be expected to provide progress reports on the impact of the funds received on their business.
Key Dates: Applications open January 13. Deadline to submit is February 13. Grant recipients will be notified in March and will be expected to provide final documentation at that time.
The Awards Ceremony will be held in May.
Read all about it!
Read about the awards in MLive.
Click here to read about previous winners.
Questions? Contact Business Coach Cailin Kelly, ckelly@northerninitiatives.org.
