In partnership with Venture North, 20Fathoms is pleased to announce a new round of funding for startups and small businesses in Northwest Michigan. Designed for innovative startups and small businesses headquartered in Northwest Michigan, these grants are highly competitive.
The grant provides direct financial support averaging $4500 for specific purchases of assets that will have a meaningful impact on business growth. This includes essential items, software, or products that contribute to immediate business expansion, operational scaling, or technology upgrades. (Excludes building renovations/repairs or general expenses such as marketing.)
How to apply for the grants:
Eligibility:
- Business is headquartered in one of the following Northwest Michigan counties: Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, or Wexford.
- This opportunity is open to all businesses; those directly contributing to the region’s economic growth and innovation are particularly invited to apply. This includes retail and specialty stores, food and beverage businesses, service-based businesses, eco-friendly and sustainable businesses, production and manufacturing, artists and makers, and technology-based startups.
- Individuals who are traditionally less represented in business ownership are especially encouraged to apply.
Application instructions:
- Visit 20Fathoms.org/apply
- Qualified applicants will be invited to meet with members of our team so that we can learn more about your business
Application period:
- May 16 – 25, 2025
This grant funding has been made possible through a partnership between 20Fathoms, Michigan SBDC, Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, Traverse Connect, and Venture North.
An additional round of small business grants will be awarded later in 2025.
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number [SLFRP0127] awarded to 20Fathoms by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.