MADERA COUNTY, CA – Small business owners across Madera County may have a new opportunity to secure financial support to help launch, grow, or strengthen their operations, following a recent announcement shared by the Madera County Economic Development Corporation (EDC).
In a social media post, the EDC highlighted a grant program designed to assist independently owned, small-scale businesses with a variety of expenses, ranging from startup costs and licensing fees to marketing efforts and certain expansion needs. The program is aimed at businesses with fewer than 10 employees that are based in Madera County, with organizers emphasizing that eligibility requirements will be strictly enforced.
The grant initiative, funded by United Way and guided by a designated Madera Resident Council, has identified several focus areas it hopes to uplift through this round of funding. Priority will be given to businesses connected to health and wellness, artisanal and cultural preservation, community-building efforts, and so-called “third space” concepts — gathering places that foster creativity, recreation, and social connection.
A total of six grants will be awarded at varying funding levels, with businesses able to request up to $8,000. Applicants are encouraged to seek only the amount they realistically need to carry out their proposed activities. Grant recipients will be required to document how funds are used and reflect on the impact the support has on their business.
The application window is open now and will close on January 28 at 11:59 p.m. Following the initial review, top applicants will be invited to present their proposals to the Madera Resident Council, which will select the final awardees.
The EDC is directing interested business owners to the program’s webpage for full eligibility requirements, application instructions, and detailed guidelines. Questions about the grant can also be directed to Lilibeth Ramirez at liramirez@uwfm.org.
Local leaders say the funding is intended to strengthen Madera County’s small business landscape by investing in entrepreneurs who contribute not only to the economy, but also to the character and vitality of their communities.
Golden 1 Credit Union Opens Applications For 2026 Scholarship Program
