Announcing March's Grant Winners!
Congratulations to the remarkable women who are the recipients of our March grants! We're excited to offer these business leaders the opportunity to share their inspiring stories with the WomensNet community.
Don't miss our engaging virtual panel discussion where they share their stories, strategies, and experiences.
Watch the Discussion
  
THREE $10,000 grants for every month. And THREE $25,000 winners at the end of 2024.
How do you win one of these three grants?
Have more questions? Please check out our FAQ page!
|
______________________________________________________________________
Film New Orleans is the official permitting agency for filming in the city. If you plan to film in Orleans Parish, please go to www.filmneworleans.org to learn more and to submit an application.
If you’re interested in working on film productions as a crew member, Film New Orleans in partnership with IATSE 478 sponsors Workforce Training Programs with NOVAC. Head to novacvideo.org to sign up for remote lectures, seminars, and workshops dedicated to teaching the art of filmmaking.
______________________________________________________________________
The mission of the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF) is to support cultural industries and culture bearers of the City of New Orleans through partnerships, grants, and programs to advance sustainable tourism.
Individuals and organizations who align with this mission may be eligible for funding.
Visit notcf.com for more info.
If you have further questions, please email grants@nocsf.org.
______________________________________________________________________
The following information is provided by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 1615 H Street, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20062
May 1 | In-person or online
Join the U.S. Chamber of Commerce online or in-person on May 1 for a day of deep learning and networking with business experts and entrepreneurs! Tune in for high-level insights and tips on hot topics, including top marketing strategies, ways to leverage new technologies, and policy initiatives impacting the small business landscape. Plus, in-person registrants will enjoy lunch, portraits, and priceless rooftop views at our Washington, D.C., headquarters! Start off Small Business Month right -- RSVP today!
Register!
Offering employee benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans can result in tax savings. Make sure you're claiming all the employee benefit tax credits you're entitled to using this list of deductions.
Ready to get your new business up and running? Lay out your business plan and create the momentum you need to make that first sale using this step-by-step startup checklist.
| |
|
|
| |
|
Women entrepreneurs are underrepresented in the ranks of American business owners, partially due to lack of funding. If you are a woman entrepreneur in need of capital for your brand, check out these programs, agencies, and organizations that are addressing this problem.
|
|
|
|
GRANTS & AWARDS
-
EmpowHer grants support women who need early-stage business capital, a network of business advisors, or both. Grantees will have access to financial, marketing, leadership, and sector professionals who can advise on business focus, next steps, and longer-range planning. As an entrepreneur, you’re not alone: our network is full of people who have been in your shoes.
-
Her Village grants awarded to qualifying nonprofit organizations support work that advances and strengthens entrepreneurial skills, resources, ecosystems, and educational opportunities for girls and women. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $30,000. Our grantmaking to nonprofits is founded in the belief that, equipped with support, skills, and capital, female entrepreneurs can have a boundless impact in society.
- The Fast Break for Small Business grant program, in collaboration with the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League, offers small business owners and entrepreneurs the chance to win a $10,000 grant and/or up to $500 in LegalZoom products and services. Apply by September 13.
- The Merchant Maverick Opportunity Grant for Kid Entrepreneurs supports young visionaries by providing five $2,000 grants to fuel their innovative business ideas. Open to U.S.-based businesses majority-led by individuals aged 10-18, this initiative empowers kids with the creativity and drive to make their business dreams a reality. Applications are due May 31.
- The Jobber Grants program is awarding $10,000 grants to support 15 home service businesses that display excellence in their industry. Eligible businesses include those that provide one-time or recurring maintenance or repair in industries such as landscaping, car detailing, and pool maintenance, among others. Applications are due on June 12
-
Giving Joy grants, ranging from $250 to $500, are available to businesses in any sector and can be used to start or expand businesses, nonprofits, non-governmental organizations, or community projects that focus on benefiting women, girls, and families. Applications are due April 30, 2024.
- The American Dream Awards recognize small businesses across the U.S. that embody the spirit of innovation, make significant contributions to their communities, and adhere to sustainable business practices. The awards offer grants from $1,000 and additional benefits like an accelerator program and media exposure. Applications are due by April 30.
- The 2024 Black Ambition Prize competition aims to level the playing field for Black and Hispanic innovators by providing access to capital, coaching, and a supportive community. Awards range from $15K to $1M, with up to 250 semi-finalists and one grand prize winner receiving $1M. Eligible organizations can apply through May 6.
- 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.
- The SheaMoisture Fund pledges to provide $1 million in direct funding annually to eligible Black-owned businesses in the U.S. through various different business development programs and grants. With several programs available, applications are available on a rolling basis.
- The National Black Business Pitch competition aims to connect Black-owned businesses with corporations looking to diversify their supply chain by opening doors and fostering long-term relationships that can lead to sustainable contracts. Thirty finalists will pitch to corporate procurement and supplier diversity professionals, with three companies receiving cash prizes of up to $10,000 to promote business growth and opportunity. Applications are due by June 3.
- The Accion Opportunity Fund grants small business loans ranging from $5,000-$250,000, along with educational resources, coaching, and support networks in both English and Spanish. This program offers mentorship programs, microloans, and a hubzone program for small business owners’ financial needs.
-
GrantsForWomen.org is an online directory that provides a comprehensive database of grants for women globally, along with valuable advice on securing grants and information on relevant events and workshops for female business owners.
- The Cartier Women's Initiative offers three award categories: regional; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and science and technology pioneer. Winners receive financial support, coaching, and peer learning opportunities, with the diversity, equity, and inclusion category open to all genders. Applications aren’t open yet, but aspiring entrepreneurs can prepare for the 2024 awards.
- Resources and funding opportunities for AAPI-owned businesses, including accelerator programs, grants for AAPI entrepreneurs, and networking groups.
- Funding options for LGBTQ+-owned businesses, including resource networks and organizations that offer grants to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and those from other underrepresented backgrounds.
- The HerRise MicroGrant offers financial aid to U.S.-registered businesses that are majority-owned by women of color, with a focus on businesses with innovative community solutions. Applications are reviewed monthly.
- The Incfile Entrepreneur Grant offers two $2,500 grant opportunities: the "Young Entrepreneur Scholarship Grant" for students with an interest in starting a business and the "Fresh Start Business Grant" for adults planning to start a new business or grow an existing one. Applicants for both grants must complete an online application, create a two-minute video, and a sample business plan.
- The Wish Local Empowerment Program assists Black-owned small businesses by dedicating a $2 million fund to support approximately 4,000 Wish Local partners. Recipients can receive financial assistance ranging from $500 to $2000, with flexibility in fund allocation. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
- 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 in the US. Applicants are also eligible for an end-of-year grant of $2,500. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
-
America’s Seed Fund, sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF), offers up to $2 million for U.S.-based startups and small businesses that are developing innovative technology. Project pitches are accepted on a rolling basis, and official responses from NSF typically take one month.
-
The TL Effect three-month accelerator program provides selected brands with grant access, office space, and mentorship. Cash grants of up to $20,000 will be awarded to support the selected companies’ growth. Applicants must be women of color, including trans, genderqueer, and non-binary individuals.
- The Awesome Foundation awards grants of $1,000 to individuals and groups looking to fund various projects. Though funding is not limited to businesses, startups and small businesses have been among the recipients of the monthly grants. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
- The Small Business Digital Readiness Program helps small business owners succeed in a digital world with a free online curriculum and includes expert coaching, peer networking, and other resources. Registrants take two courses to be eligible for a $10K grant. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
- More grant & program information can be found here.
______________________________________________________________________
Browse videos, documents, templates and more to grow your business.
This resource page (https://www.liftfund.com/resources/) contains tools, downloads, videos, blogs and more. Look through our resource pages for key information on how to manage your business and access capital.
View Upcoming Events
_________________________________________________________________________
  APPLY NOW APPLY NOW APPLY NOW APPLY NOW
 APPLY NOW APPLY NOW APPLY NOW CONTACT LED
______________________________________________________________________
The Department of Safety and Permits
NEW ORLEANS — The Department of Safety and Permits has relocated from City Hall at 1300 Perdido St. (7th floor) to Orleans Tower at 1340 Poydras St. (Ste. 800). Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- For updates on permits and code enforcement cases, visit One Stop at onestopapp.nola.gov
- Enter address, case number, reference code or permit number
- Once the applicable violation/permit appears, select Print Summary (printer not required)
- For permit inquiries, please email permitinfo@nola.gov and allow two business days for a response
- For Alcohol Beverage Outlet related inquiries, please email abo@nola.gov and allow two business days for a response
- To schedule an inspection related to a building permit, email inspections@nola.gov and allow two business days for a response
- For inquiries about Special Events, email eventpermits@nola.gov and allow two business days for a response
All code enforcement complaints about properties in violations should be emailed to codeenforcement@nola.gov. Additional code enforcement information can be found at nola.gov/code-enforcement.
General information about hearings can be found at OneStop - Adjudication - City of New Orleans (nola.gov). When a hearing is scheduled, the details including dates and time of a hearing can be found at OneStop - Adjudication - Hearings - City of New Orleans (nola.gov).
Constituents may also call (504) 658-7200 and select Option 2 during business hours, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
______________________________________________________________________
 Need Assistance Setting Up a Community Conference Call? NEO is Here to Help!
If any neighborhood association needs assistance setting up a conference call, please email neighborhoods@nola.gov. Neighborhood Engagement will be glad to walk you through the setup process!
Held a Community Clean Up Day Recently? NEO Want to Hear About It!
Visit cleanup.nola.gov or click this link to tell NEO about your clean up.
Neighborhood Association Info Update
Neighborhood associations can update their information on the Neighborhood Engagement Office website by clicking this link. If you have any questions or need assistance, please email
neighborhoods@nola.gov
|
