Fuel Your Future:
Grants and Growth for Entrepreneurs
This program is funded by Clark County through CDBG funds.
Business IDA for Trades Entrepreneurs
Turn Your Savings into Business Growth
Are you a trades professional looking to launch or expand your business? Our Business Individual Development Account (IDA) Program is designed to help trades entrepreneurs like you build financial stability, gain essential business skills, and secure the funding needed to grow.
With just $500 in savings over six months, you can unlock $3,000 in matching funds—giving you a total of $3,500 to invest in tools, equipment, licensing, or other business needs.
How It Works
Save $500 over six months in a dedicated savings account.
Complete Business Education Requirements, including workshops on financial management, marketing, and business planning.
Participate in Financial Coaching sessions to strengthen your money management skills.
Receive a 5:1 Match—once you meet all program requirements, your savings will be matched with $2,500, giving you a total of $3,000 to invest in your business.
Who Should Apply?
This program is perfect for individuals in trades industries, including:
Construction & Building Trades (roofing, flooring, painting, etc.)
Mechanical & Technical Trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, welding, etc.)
Automotive & Transportation Trades (auto repair, detailing, mechanics, etc.)
Cleaning & Sanitation Trades (commercial cleaning, power washing, mold remediation, etc.)
Other Skilled Trades (landscaping, cabinetry, pest control, home inspections, etc.)
Basic Eligibility & Program Requirements
To participate in the Business IDA Program, you must:
✔ Be at least 18 years old
✔ Have a business address in Clark County outside of City of Vancouver limits (verify location HERE).
✔ Own or plan to start a business in a skilled trade industry
✔ Meet income eligibility requirements (under 80% area median income AMI)
✔ Commit to saving $500 over six months in a dedicated IDA account
✔ Complete 15 hrs of business education and a 4 hrs of financial coaching sessions
✔ Finalize a business plan
✔ Use the funds for approved business expenses (tools, equipment, licensing, etc.)
Application Requirements:
📌 Complete an online or paper application
📌 Provide proof of income and residency
📌 Submit answers to business questionnaire
📌 Attend an orientation session before enrolling
Why Join?
Multiply Your Savings: Get a 5:1 match on your contributions.
Business & Financial Training: Learn how to manage and grow your business effectively.
Expert Coaching: Receive guidance from financial and business professionals.
Investment in Your Future: Use your funds for tools, equipment, licensing, or other business expenses.
Apply Today!
Spaces are limited! Don’t miss this opportunity to save, learn, and grow your business. Apply now to start your journey toward financial success.
Limited Spots available!
Application Deadline: April 30th, 2025 at 11:59 pm
Contact Us: businessassist@fourthplainforward.org
BIPOC Food Business Incubator:
From Idea to Launch
Turn Your Food Business Dream into Reality
Do you have a food business idea but don’t know where to start? Our Food Business Incubator is a 6-month program designed to take you from the idea phase to a fully launched food business. Whether you want to start a catering business, food truck, or packaged food brand, we provide the training, resources, and financial support you need to succeed.
Upon completing the program, launching your business, and meeting all requirements, you will receive a $4,000 business grant to fuel your growth.
What You’ll Get
Food Business-Specific Education & Training – Learn about licensing, operations, marketing, food safety, and financial management.
One-on-One Coaching & Mentorship – Receive expert guidance to develop and refine your business plan.
Licensing & Food Permit Support – We cover up to $3,000 in required permits and licenses to help you get started.
Access to a Commissary Kitchen – Utilize a shared commercial kitchen at a subsidized cost, so you can start production affordably.
$4,000 Business Grant – After successfully completing the program and launching your business, you’ll receive funding to invest in equipment, inventory, marketing or operations.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for:
Aspiring food entrepreneurs with a new business idea
Catering businesses & food trucks looking to launch
Packaged food producers (baked goods)
Pop-up & market food vendors
Basic Eligibility & Program Requirements
To be eligible, you must:
✔ Be at least 18 years old
✔ Identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Latinx/Hispanic, Asian, Pacific Islander)
✔ Have a business address in Clark County outside of City of Vancouver limits (verify location HERE).
✔ Have a food business idea or early-stage venture (less than 2 years)
✔ Meet income eligibility requirements (under 80% area median income AMI)
✔ Commit to completing the 6-month program
✔ Attend all business training sessions and coaching meetings
✔ Meet all licensing and food safety requirements
✔ Successfully launch your business by the end of the program
Application Requirements:
📌 Complete an online or paper application
📌 Provide proof of income and residency
📌 Attend an orientation session before enrolling
Why Join?
Eliminate Startup Barriers: Get help with permits, kitchen access, and startup costs.
Hands-On Business Support: Learn from industry experts and gain real-world experience.
Financial Boost: Receive a $4,000 business grant upon successful completion and launch.
Join a Community: Connect with other food entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
Apply Today!
Start your food business journey now! Spaces are limited—apply today to take your business from idea to launch.
Limited Spots available!
Application Deadline: April 30th, 2025 at 11:59 pm
Application Guide HERE
Contact Us: businessassist@fourthplainforward.org