MULTICULTURAL MIAMI
Resources, Grants & Loans
Expand Your Horizons with SCORE Miami
 
Check out SCORE Miami's webinars and workshops being offered in April.  These low or no-cost local workshops are presented on relevant small business topics by small business experts, online and in-person. You may also benefit by getting free business advice from experienced mentors – partnerships focused on making you more successful in starting and/or growing your small business.
West Dixie Small Business Tech Grant Program
 
North Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (NMCRA) Vice Chair Mary Estimé-Irvin is pleased to announce the launch of the West Dixie Small Business Tech Grant Program. It is designed to empower local businesses by providing funding for various technology-related equipment and services to small businesses located on West Dixie Highway. This initiative offers financial assistance of up to $7,500 to eligible businesses for technology upgrades aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and capacity. Applications are now open. For eligibility requirements and to apply click here.
Creating & Growing Your Audience on Digital Platforms
 
In collaboration with Miami-Dade County Commissioner, Honorary Raquel Regalado from District 7, the Latin Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the United States (CAMACOL) has crafted a program aimed at enhancing your understanding and launching your presence in the realm of Digital Media! Through a series of three interactive workshops, this program offers essential insights into the intricacies and facets of this pivotal economic sector. Kicking off on April 4, CAMACOL will conduct a FREE in-person workshop focusing on Growing and Retaining a Digital Audience. Click here to reserve your spot.
City of Coral Gables Cultural Grant Program Webinar - Public Meeting
 
The City of Coral Gables invites nonprofit organizations to attend a Cultural Grants Webinar - Public Meeting on April 4 via Zoom. Organizations must have staff, board members, or volunteer representation present throughout the meeting.  Topics will include eligibility, required documents, allowable grant expenditures, evaluation criteria, agreement terms, updates, and the on-line grant application process. Attendance of the webinar is mandatory for eligibility. Click here for more details. Applications are due May 3.
Calling All Exhibitors & Food Vendors: Sign up for a spot at the Little Haiti Book Festival today!
 
The Miami Book Fair and Sosyete Koukouy invite exhibitors and food vendors to participate in the Little Haiti Book Festival on May 5 at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex. This community event boasts a lively marketplace, dynamic book fair, and an exciting lineup of programs that appeal to a diverse audience. Attendees can expect live performances, interactive workshops, arts and crafts activities, and insightful panel discussions. Don’t miss this opportunity to  showcase your products and services in this vibrant, interactive setting. Engage directly with thousands of attendees as they honor Haitian heritage and culture! Click here to learn more and register. The deadline for applications is April 5.
$10,000 Grant for Woman-Owned Businesses
 
Are you a female entrepreneur? Seeking initial capital to launch or grow your business? Apply for the latest grant from iFundWomen! iFundWomen is the premier funding platform for women-owned businesses and those who support them, providing access to capital, coaching, and networking opportunities. Simply create an account to begin. The application deadline is April 8. Click here for further information.
Miami Open for Business Application Party
 
Opportunity Connect invites you to discover the microgrants accessible to small businesses and nonprofits via the Miami Open for Business program. They will provide insights into the application process and essential requirements. Ensure you register today! The event will be held on April 10. Refreshments will be provided, and parking will be validated. Click here for further details.
New Entrepreneurs in Technology Training
 
Utilizing funds allocated by the City of Miami under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, the Latin Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the United States (CAMACOL ) introduces its New Entrepreneurs in Technology training initiative. Over a span of 12 virtual session, this program equips eligible participants with essential business acumen at absolutely no cost. Successful completion of the program warrants a Certificate of Achievement.  Individuals interested in joining are encouraged to download and submit the completed intake form, accessible here.
Retaining and Monetizing a Digital Audience
 
In collaboration with Miami-Dade County Commissioner, Honorary Raquel Regalado from District 7, the Latin Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the United States (CAMACOL) has crafted a program aimed at enhancing your understanding and launching your presence in the realm of Digital Media! Through a series of three interactive workshops, this program offers essential insights into the intricacies and facets of this pivotal economic sector. The second session is on April 11, CAMACOL will conduct a FREE in-person workshop focusing on Retaining and Monetizing a Digital Audience. Click here to reserve your spot.
Mom & Pop Business Grants for District 5 are Officially Open!
 
The District 5 Mom & Pop Small Business Grant Program provides financial and technical assistance, as well as resources to qualified businesses approved for funding. Applications are now available in English and Spanish! Deadline to apply is April 12.  Click here for more details on this grant.
Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs - Tourist Development Council (TDC) Grants Program 
 
The Tourist Development Council (TDC) Grants Program is responsive on a quarterly basis to organizations and events which promote Miami-Dade County’s appeal as a tourist destination by sponsoring tourist-oriented sports events, cultural and special events.The TDC’s objective in funding events is to attract tourists from outside of Miami-Dade County into the area, encourage overnight stays in our motels and hotels, and perpetuate an environment for growth in the tourism industry in Miami-Dade County. The application deadline is April 15. Click here for all of the details.
$1,000 Grant for Small Businesses
 
The Awesome Foundation is an international network dedicated to promoting excellence throughout the world, one $1000 grant at a time. Every independent branch champions outstanding initiatives by providing micro-grants, typically awarded on a monthly basis. These grants, equivalent to $1000 or the currency in the respective locality, are generously funded by the chapter's trustees and bestowed upon individuals and organizations pursuing remarkable endeavors, free from any stipulations or obligations. Apply by April 15. Click here for details.
From Lighting to Props:Your Backstage Pass to Technical Theater
 
Participate in a virtual question and answer session on April 17 to gain insights into the Arsht Center's Technical Theater Apprenticeship Program and  and how to stand out in the application process. The Arsht Center Technical Theater Apprenticeship Program offers a three-year paid opportunity crafted to introduce individuals from historically marginalized backgrounds to the professional realm of technical theater. Apprentices will receive mentorship from industry veterans and engage in a diverse range of projects. Upon program completion, apprentices will possess comprehensive behind-the-scenes knowledge and firsthand experience in orchestrating successful on-and off-stage productions. Click here to learn more.
The Mayor's Career & Job Fair
 
Join the Miami-Dade county Family!  Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, the Human resources Department and Career Source South Florida invite you to attend the Mayor’s Career & Job Fair on April 18 at the Main Library in Downtown Miami. Whether you're seeking new employment avenues or looking to advance your career, this event promises a wealth of opportunities. To read more on what the county offers, click here.
Transition from Digital to Broadcast/Streaming Media
 
In collaboration with Miami-Dade County Commissioner, Honorary Raquel Regalado from District 7, the Latin Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the United States (CAMACOL) has crafted a program aimed at enhancing your understanding and launching your presence in the realm of Digital Media! Through a series of three interactive workshops, this program offers essential insights into the intricacies and facets of this pivotal economic sector. The third session is on April 18, CAMACOL will conduct a FREE in-person workshop focusing on Transition from Digital to Broadcast/Streaming Media. Click here to reserve your spot.
305 Second Chance Job and Resource Expo 
 
Miami-Dade County and supporters encourage you to attend the 305 Second Chance Job and Resource Expo. This free event connects formerly incarcerated individuals to employment opportunities, support services, and resources. The event takes place on April 18 at the Miami-Dade County Main Library. No registration is required. Join us and take your shot at finding new opportunities and a fresh start. Bring copies of your resume! Click here for more details.
The Arsht Center’s Technical Theater Apprenticeship Program
 
The Arsht Center Technical Theater Apprenticeship Program offers a paid, three-year opportunity crafted to initiate individuals from historically marginalized backgrounds into the professional realm of technical theater. Under the guidance of industry veterans, apprentices will gain invaluable insights into the intricacies of staging successful events both behind the scenes and on stage. Upon program completion, apprentices will possess comprehensive behind-the-scenes expertise and firsthand event management experience. Beyond technical training, apprentices will participate in life skills workshops covering topics such as financial literacy, health, resume building, and more. Applications accepted here through April 30.
Miami Arts Marketing Project 2024 Lineup
 
Miami Arts Marketing Project is a high-impact series curated for the arts and creative ecosystem that provides the discovery of the latest trends in marketing, innovation and exploration of impactful partnerships and new audiences. As the arts comeback intensifies your organization needs tactics, tips and inspiration to reach new audiences, engage your patrons and connect with new sponsors. Join us to amplify your marketing, outreach, and fundraising.  Click here here for the lineup.
Comcast Innovation Fund
 
The Comcast Innovation Fund provides grants to support technology and research for the betterment of the Internet. Areas of interest for the 2024 grant year include open-source development, general and targeted research, and work that enhances the growth of the internet. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all funds for 2024 are disbursed. Click here to learn more.
Call for Performers!
 
The Greater Miami Festivals and Events Association is seeking entertainers for their 11th annual conference and exhibition titled Reimagine, Refresh, Renew on May 8. This is your opportunity to demonstrate to South Florida’s top event professionals how your talents can make their next event a winning experience!  Applications are due by April 5. Click here for more.
Navigating the Evolving Media Landscape
 
Exciting Announcement! The Miami Arts Marketing Project (MAMP) returns, and they are extending an invitation to you to join Arts Biz Miami on April 9 at the Miami-Dade College Wolfson Campus. In today's ever-changing media landscape, it's crucial to adapt strategies to meet the demands of savvy, highly connected audiences. This session, led by industry experts and media innovators, will focus on strategies for engaging with media, navigating emerging platforms, and staying abreast of current trends.  Secure your ticket here to reserve your spot at this enlightening event! 
Microgrant for Technology and Equipment
 
Supported by a $20 million contribution from Wells Fargo, the Miami Open for Business initiative seeks to equip historically marginalized nonprofits and small enterprises with the means to establish long-lasting financial stability and fortitude by acquiring essential business assets like real estate, machinery, and technology. The Microgrant for Technology and Equipment aims to supply funding for the procurement of hardware, software, and equipment necessary for business expansion. Applications must be submitted by the end of the day on May 31. Learn more here. 
Asset Building Loan for Entrepreneurs 
 
With the support of a $20 million grant from Wells Fargo, the Miami Open for Business initiative aims to empower historically disadvantaged nonprofits and small businesses to foster lasting prosperity and flexibility by obtaining and possessing crucial business assets like property, equipment, and technology. The goal of the Asset Building Loan for Entrepreneurs (ABLE) fund is to provide low-interest financial aid that can be used for various purposes, including acquiring vehicles or inventory, renovating workspace, refinancing high-interest debt for asset procurement, or facilitating business transfers or conversions to worker cooperatives. Applications will close on September 30. More details here. 
Prospera Small-Business Grants
 
Prospera, a nonprofit economic development organization, works with new and existing Hispanic business owners to help ensure they have the tools and resources needed to succeed. Prospera grants are awarded on an individual basis and provide for professional services related to legal and accounting assessments, business plans, QuickBooks consulting, marketing plans and brand kits at no cost to the business owner.  Their business advancement services allow start-ups and existing businesses to receive professional business development services at no cost to them. Read more here. 
Explore Trade Grants for Florida Exporters
 
SelectFlorida provides a range of trade grants under the Florida Export Diversification & Expansion program, aiding eligible companies in initiating their first export ventures or expanding into new international markets. Engaging in personalized business matchmaking, participating in trade shows, crafting tailored export marketing plans, or adapting your website for overseas audiences are all strategies to bolster and broaden your company's sales. With SelectFlorida's trade grants, you can effectively pursue and achieve your objectives. Click here to learn more.
The National Endowment for the Arts 2024 Grant Opportunities
 
Guidelines and application materials for Grants for Arts Projects (GAP) and Challenge America  funding are now available on the National Endowment for the Arts’ website. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) supports projects in any part of the nation’s 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. jurisdictions. The NEA encourages activities that rebuild the creative economy and educate the next generation, unite and heal the nation through the arts, and serve the nation’s arts field. 
Must-Know Resources for Miami-Dade County's Small Business Owners
 
Have you heard of Axis Helps and STRIVE305? These are two of the most important resources available to small business owners located in Miami-Dade County.  Together, they can answer your questions, connect you with resources, and make sure that your business has the tools needed to survive and thrive.
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready
 
The National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE)  has teamed up with Verizon to deliver the Small Business Digital Readiness Program. It helps small business owners succeed in a digital world with a free online curriculum and includes expert coaching, peer networking, and other resources to support your small business. Registrants must take two courses to be eligible for a $10,000 grant. Apply before April 8. Find more details here.
Small Business Meet-Up - Virtual
 
With the rapid pace of things changing for Small Businesses, you are invited to join the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce for your chance to meet other business owners, talk strategy, and get the latest on resources for small businesses. Virtual meetings take place every Tuesday. Click here to register.
$500 Grant and Mentorship for Entrepreneurs
 
The Freed Fellowship Grant offers a monthly $500 prize, business feedback, and a two-month free membership in the Freed Studio – a community of ambitious business owners – to qualifying business owners. Applicants are also eligible for an end-of-year grant of $2,500. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Click here to read more and apply..
Small Business Readiness for Resiliency Program
 
Offered by the United States Chamber of Commerce Foundation and FedEx, with additional support from Allstate, this program guides any interested small business in preparing for a disaster.  Quick-turn relief funding of $5,000 will be available for those prepared businesses after a federal disaster declaration is made in their region. Learn more, participate, and apply here.
Business Entrepreneurship Specialist - College Credit Certificate by Miami Dade College
 
The Business Entrepreneurship Specialist College Credit Certificate is designed to prepare students for employment in entry-level positions or opening their own business or venture in the following areas: Family-Owned Business, Start-Up Venture, and Social Venture. Students may select one of the 3 options, but the certificate is awarded only once. To learn more visit Start-Up Entrepreneurship.
United States Department of Education Grants
 
The United States Department of Education has various grants available to small businesses in the education sector, each with a unique eligibility criteria, with some opportunities set aside for public schools, state agencies, or nonprofit organizations. Click here for more information and application deadlines.
Small Business  Assistance 
 
The Latin Chamber of Commerce of the United States (CAMACOL) and the Minority Business Development Agency Florida Programs, Puerto Rico and United States Virgin Islands, operated by M. Gill & Associates, are joining forces to help small and minority businesses grow. They will be providing free technical support and general business advice in person every Tuesday from 10-3. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, please contact them by phone at 786-515-0670 or email.
AI for Marketing and Sales Master Course 
 
STRIVE305 partner BizHack Academy has released an extensive AI for Marketing and Sales Online Master Course to teach small business how to tap the power of these new tools. Though the class is priced at $497, STRIVE305 clients can access the entire contents of the course for FREE with coupon code: strive305. The course examines how small businesses can take advantage of the latest AI tools and avoid being left behind as this game-changing technology shakes up the world of content creation.
New Heights District 5 Microloan Fund
 
Elevate District 5 encourages you to apply for a low-interest loan of up to $10,000 for your small business. These funds can be used for working capital, refinancing of predatory debt, purchasing of inventory or business equipment, or to remodel/renovate a location or storefront. Click here to learn more and access the application.
About Florida’s Small Business Development Center
 
We are the Florida Small Business Development Center Network. We are SBDC. As the largest network of small business consultants in Florida, the Florida SBDC provides access to no-cost consulting, affordable and high-quality resources, innovative tools, and the knowledge of experienced small business experts. Our business is helping your business to launch, grow and thrive. Click here to learn more.
RISE Miami-Dade Small Business Loan
 
Miami-Dade County is a place of great entrepreneurial spirit and great opportunities for continued economic growth. With RISE, Miami-Dade County will continue to be a leader in successful minority-run businesses, continue to be a county of opportunity for all, and a county that prioritizes investing in its small business economy. This fund’s goal is to create a highway of access to capital for Miami-Dade County’s small business ecosystem by providing loans directly to low and moderate, minority and women-owned small businesses. Click here to find out if your business qualifies for this loan.
United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Free Counseling Program for Entrepreneurs
 
The business advisors at United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) Navigates Small Business provide support to help your business thrive, with guidance on establishing a business, business finances, funding and access to capital, marketing and branding, growing a team, government contracting, public and corporate supply chains and procurement, and minority certification. Learn more here.
Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust  Minority Small Black Business $10,000 Grant
 
Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust (MDEAT) announced the availability of grants through its Minority Small Black Business Capitalization Program for small to medium minority businesses in Miami-Dade County in the amount of $10,000 to improve or stabilize neighborhood businesses throughout Miami-Dade County.  For more information, contact Robert Parson, Economic Development Manager, at 305-375-5610, Robert.Parson2@MiamiDade.gov or download the application here. 
Wish Local Empowerment Program
 
As a prominent e-commerce enterprise, we acknowledge our duty to support others in need. Black-owned small businesses have historically encountered adversity stemming from systemic injustices. However, businesses like yours play a crucial role in shaping the fabric of America. Hence, we're committing a $2 million fund to provide financial assistance to approximately 4,000 Wish Local small business partners. Recipients selected will receive grants ranging from $500 to $2000. This initiative is exclusively available to Black-owned establishments, aimed at fostering equity and inclusivity within the American business landscape. Click here for all of the details. 
Hacker Nation at StartUP FIU

Hacker Nation at StartUP FIU is a group dedicated to creating an open learning environment where people can share new topics, ideas, and knowledge, or ask for certain areas of expertise that are not yet available in schools/universities/online. Any student, researcher, or explorer, who wants to challenge their thinking is welcome, regardless of the major or previous level of expertise.  Held every Wednesday at 11:30 am at StartUP FIU via Zoom.

The North Miami Community Redevelopment Agency Business Assistance Program
 
Learn more about our Beautification and Enhancement Grants offered by the North Miami Community Redevelopment Agency! This program offers up to $25,000 with no match requirement, to eligible commercial property owners or business operators for improvements to the exterior and/or interior of the building.  To learn more email cragrants@northmiamifl.gov.
Florida MBDA Export Academy

Interested in selling your products abroad but are new-to-export and new-to-global markets.  This online platform is designed for you, with an on-demand, 12-module certificate course for new-to-export companies. Click here to learn more.

⁠US Citizenship & Immigration Services Job Information Session

Join the USCIS for their monthly virtual job information session for Miami and the Caribbean District.  They are currently hiring for various Immigration Services positions and Operation Support Specialists. This meeting occurs on the third Thursday of every month at noon. Click here to join the meeting.

Google Career Certificates
 
Jump-start your career with free access to a Google Career Certificate. Prepare for entry-level jobs in data analytics, IT support, project management, or user experience design – no college degree or relevant experience required. Explore the Grow with Google program at grow.google/certificates.  CareerSource South Florida offers scholarships for free access to the Google Career Certificate.  To find out if you qualify register here.
Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs Grant Guidelines
 
The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs has released guidelines and deadline schedules for the 2023-2024 spring cycle of arts and cultural grants programs available to Miami-Dade County based non-profit cultural groups. Guidelines containing information regarding eligibility requirements, funding requests and program criteria can be downloaded here. Grant guidelines can also be requested by calling the Department of Cultural Affairs at (305) 375-4634, or via email at  culture@miamidade.gov.
Get Help to Grow Your Business at NO Cost!!
 
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses provides business education, support services and pathways to capital for growth-oriented entrepreneurs. Participants gain practical skill to take their business to the next level, with topics like financial statements, negotiations, and marketing. Participants develop an actionable growth plan for their business with the help of advisors and a network of like-minded entrepreneurs. The program is free for participants and delivered in partnership with academic institutions across the country. To date the program has served over 10,000 businesses in all 50 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. To learn more click here.
SBA Loans
 
Start or expand your business with loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration. Use Lender Match to find lenders that offer loans for your business. To get matched to potential offering SBA-backed funding click here.
South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
 
The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SFLHCC)  promotes the continued growth and development of the Hispanic business community and serves as a resource center and forum to advocate for Hispanic and Minority owned businesses. The organization is comprised of dedicated professional individuals and business owners who have come together to advance the commercial, financial, educational and civic interests of the ever-growing Hispanic Community of South Florida.  To learn more visit SFLHCC.
Beacon Council - Business Assistance

The Miami-Dade Beacon Council, a public-private partnership, is the official economic development organization for Miami-Dade County.  As Miami-Dade County's official economic development partnership, The Beacon Council facilitates local, national and international business growth and expansion programs, helping companies of all sizes in diverse industries achieve their goals.

CAMACOL - Latin Chamber of Commerce of the USA

One of the largest and oldest Hispanic business organizations in Florida and one of the most influential minority business groups in the U.S. For more than four decades, their mission has been to foster the entrepreneurial spirit of Florida’s Hispanic and minority communities, and as such, it conducts programs to strengthen local business activity, promote economic development, facilitate international commerce, and serve the civic needs of the community. Through its Hemispheric Congress, CAMACOL provides businesses with the opportunity to establish commercial linkages in the international marketplace.

CareerSource South Florida

CareerSource Florida is the statewide workforce policy and investment board. Our partners include the Department of Economic Opportunity, 24 local workforce development boards and 100 career centers throughout Florida. Together, we help connect businesses with the talented workforce and training needed to succeed and grow.  To learn more visit CareerSource South Florida.

Miami Dade Chamber of Commerce
 

The Miami Dade Chamber of Commerce has business resources available to include the Micro Loan program. The mission of M-DCC is to create opportunities for economic and social transformation in our community. Please visit their website for more information. 

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