We understand that applying for a Beyond Open grant may be a first-time experience for some small business owners and that some of the required documents, information, or processes may be unfamiliar to you. Do not let these concerns keep you from applying. We are here to help you and encourage you to reach out for support from our Community Partner Organizations.

Here are some tips and tricks that can help lead to the best application possible.

Be prepared to tell us about you and your business.

• Name of business and owner, address, # employees, basic demographics, contact info

• What services, goods or activity are at the core of your small business?

Be prepared to tell us about your goals for your business.

• What goals do you wish for your business to achieve in the years ahead? Include any information you think would create a clear picture of success in your mind (ex., annual revenue, # employees, impact in community, etc.)

Be prepared to tell us about your needs.

• Describe the capital asset you wish to acquire.

• How will this asset will contribute to help solve a problem your business faces, make the most of an opportunity for your business, or reach your near- or long-term business goals?

Utilize our Partnering Organizations as resources.

• Whether you are thinking of applying, are about to apply, or are in the middle of the application process, please do not hesitate to reach out to one of the three Beyond Open Partnering Organizations for assistance of any kind. Follow this link for more about which organization best fits your needs as well as contact information.

Begin the process early and have your paperwork on hand.

• We encourage you to begin the application process as soon as you can! Although the window is open from September 28th until October 28th, waiting until the last minute to submit may affect the quality of your application.

• Be prepared to submit the proper documentation. The list of documentation can be found here, as well as in the application itself. If you have any questions on how to obtain any of the documents listed, please do not hesitate to connect with one of our three Partnering Organizations. They will be happy to assist you!