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The Healthy Brain Initiative Has Two Open Opportunities

The Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) is offering two new funding opportunities to promote brain health and improve community responses to dementia. The Road Map Strategists Program supports local health departments and partners, with up to eight organizations receiving up to $50,000 each in funding, along with training and technical assistance. The Road Map Champions Program offers similar support for tribally led health programs and urban Indian organizations, with up to eight organizations receiving up to $50,000 each, plus training and assistance. Applications for both programs are open until November 12, 2025.

California STEP Program: Funding to Help Small Businesses Export

The California State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) provides funding to help small businesses expand into global markets by increasing the number of California exporters and the volume of goods and services they trade. Eligible businesses may participate in up to two trade events per fiscal year and receive up to 75% reimbursement (up to $10,000) for approved export-related expenses. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, and each STEP event has its own registration deadline.

California Nutrition Incentive Program

The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) 2026 CNIP Expansion provides funding for projects that increase access to California-grown fruits and vegetables for WIC and senior nutrition shoppers at Certified Farmers’ Markets. Eligible applicants include farmers’ markets and nonprofit organizations, with priority given to projects serving low-income and low-access communities.

Learn more and apply to The California Nutrition Incentive Program (CNIP) by November 4, 2025, at 5:00 PM PT.

F-gas Reduction Incentive Program (FRIP)

The California Air Resources Board has $38.5 million available to help businesses reduce greenhouse gas emissions through ultra-low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant technologies. Funding is open to existing commercial and industrial facilities with at least one refrigeration system containing more than 50 pounds of high-GWP refrigerant.

Learn more and apply for F-gas Reduction Incentive Program (FRIP): Commercial and Industrial Refrigeration by December 15, 2025.

Smart & Final Charitable Foundation

The Smart & Final Charitable Foundation strives to give back to and nourish communities served by non-profits in California, Arizona and Nevada through the Pillars of Focus:

• Health & Wellness
• Education
• Hunger Relief
• Team Sports & Youth Development
• Disaster Relief

Learn more and apply for a donation to your non-profit. 

San Diego 2026 Tourism Accelerator Program

The San Diego Tourism Authority is accepting applications for the 2026 Tourism Accelerator program, which supports travel and hospitality businesses owned by individuals from underrepresented communities or focused on environmental sustainability. Eligible participants can receive benefits valued at over $15,000, including complimentary SDTA membership, education, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Learn more and apply for the Tourism Accelerator Program by November 20, 2025.

Kitchens for Good Microenterprise (ME) Program

Kitchens for Good’s ME program accepts early-stage food entrepreneurs in San Diego, focusing on those who have experienced barriers to accessing the resources and support needed to start their small business, including:

• Catering Businesses
• Food Product Developers
• Food Vendors 

Learn more and apply for the ME Program. 

The County of San Diego’s Department of Purchasing and Contracting (DPC) Procurement Forecast highlights upcoming contracting and procurement opportunities across County departments. Businesses can review anticipated projects and prepare for future opportunities. The DPC also hosts outreach events and workshops to help local vendors connect with procurement staff, learn how to do business with the County, and stay informed about upcoming contracting opportunities.

Learn more and view the DPC Procurement Forecast on the DPC webpage.

E-NEWSLETTER FEEDBACK

Based off this Funding and Grant Opportunities e-newsletter, have you found an opportunity that you would like to apply for? 

• Yes!
• No, there were none that were applicable to my business.
• No, I was not certain any of the opportunities applied to my business.
• No, the application process was not user friendly (complicated, too long, etc.).
• No, I do not have the time or resources to apply.

*Quick poll is located in right tab of webpage.