Strengthening Chamber Members Through Financial Support
The Small Business Grant Program was established by The People’s Chamber of Commerce to provide meaningful financial grants to Chamber members who are building, stabilizing, or growing small businesses.
Access to capital remains one of the greatest challenges facing entrepreneurs. While education, networking, and visibility are important, grants provide something many business owners need most, financial stability. This program is designed to help members strengthen their businesses with fewer barriers and more opportunity.
Why the Grant Program Exists
The People’s Chamber of Commerce works directly with small business owners across industries and stages of growth. Through events, conversations, and community engagement, one need is consistently raised. Many entrepreneurs are capable, motivated, and actively building, but lack access to funding that allows them to move forward.
The Small Business Grant Program was created to address this gap. Grants allow business owners to cover essential expenses, invest in growth, and build stronger foundations without taking on additional debt.
Who the Grant Program Is For
The Small Business Grant Program is designed for members of The People’s Chamber of Commerce.
Membership is free and open to entrepreneurs nationwide. Eligible members include
Small business owners
Early stage founders
Independent professionals and consultants
Community based and service driven businesses
Grant eligibility requirements and application guidelines will be announced publicly once initial funding benchmarks are reached.
How the Program Is Being Built
The Chamber is establishing the grant program in phases to ensure transparency, accountability, and long term sustainability.
The current focus is on funding the first Small Business Grant in the amount of five thousand dollars. This initial grant allows the Chamber to formalize grant policies, eligibility standards, review procedures, and reporting practices.
As funding grows, the Chamber intends to expand the program to support additional grants for members.
How Grants Help Our Members
Grants provide direct support that allows business owners to
Cover startup or operating expenses
Stabilize cash flow
Invest in tools, equipment, or services
Focus on growth rather than short term survival
Grants are one of the most effective ways to help businesses move from uncertainty to sustainability.
As Founder Sharifah Hardie explains,
“Grants give our members the stability to build strong businesses. Lasting economic impact is created through committed support and sustained investment.”
How the Program Is Funded
The Small Business Grant Program is funded through donations to The People’s Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber operates on a donation supported model. Membership is free, events are free, and resources remain accessible because individuals, businesses, and partners choose to invest in the community.
Donations directly support
Small business grants
Grant administration and oversight
Long term expansion of the program
How to Support the Small Business Grant Program
Supporters can participate in the program by
Making a donation to the Chamber
Contributing as a business or community partner
Sponsoring future grant rounds
Sharing the program with entrepreneurs and supporters
Every donation helps move the program closer to funding grants for Chamber members.
What Happens Next
Once the initial funding goal is reached, the Chamber will announce
Grant application criteria
Eligibility requirements
Application timelines
Review and selection processes
Updates will be shared publicly to maintain transparency and accountability.
DONATE NOW TO SUPPORT THE SMALL BUSINESS GRANT PROGRAM
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a grant or a loan?
This program provides grants. Approved recipients will not be required to repay awarded funds.
Is the grant program currently funded?
The program is being established and funded in phases. The first grant will be awarded once initial funding milestones are reached.
How many grants will be awarded?
The Chamber plans to award one five thousand dollar grant in the initial phase. Additional grants will be considered as funding becomes available.
Who is eligible to apply for a grant?
Eligibility will be limited to members of The People’s Chamber of Commerce. Membership is free. Additional eligibility requirements will be announced when applications open.
When will grant applications open?
Grant applications will open after the initial funding goal is met. Application details and timelines will be announced publicly.
How will grant recipients be selected?
Recipients will be selected based on established eligibility criteria and a structured review process designed to ensure fairness and transparency.
How can I support the grant program?
The program is supported through donations to The People’s Chamber of Commerce. Donations help fund grants and the infrastructure required to administer them responsibly.
Will donors be notified when grants are awarded?
Yes. The Chamber plans to publicly announce funding milestones and grant awards as part of its commitment to transparency.