Visa Foundation Launches $2 Million Grant Program for U.S. Small-Business Groups

2 articles · Updated · rockpa.org · Sep 28

$2 million in new funding will back nonprofit Entrepreneurial Support Organizations that provide direct services to U.S. small and micro businesses, with applications open until Oct. 21.
Visa Foundation said the open-call program is meant to help businesses that still struggle to access training, technical assistance and other resources needed to grow and stay competitive.
Eligible applicants are U.S.-based 501(c)(3) groups with $1 million to $10 million annual budgets, two years of financial records and direct service programs for operating businesses.
Grants will range from $100,000 to $250,000 for 12 months starting in January 2027, with Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors administering the process and applicants notified by January 2027.

Sources

As AI reshapes commerce, how will a few select nonprofits use this funding to bridge the massive digital divide for everyday micro-businesses?

With the October deadline looming, will administrative overhead swallow these new grants before the funds can reach actual small businesses?

Why is a major financial player funneling millions into intermediary charities instead of giving cash directly to struggling small business owners?

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