BRIDGEPORT – Optimum Business and the Bridgeport Regional Business Council (BRBC) have launched the Lifting Up Small Businesses in Grant Program.
They will award $5,000 grants to 25 small businesses in Bridgeport. The program is designed to fuel economic growth, support business expansion, and enhance neighborhood vitality by awarding $5,000 grants to qualified small businesses. The program offers not only funding but also access to essential resources and training oppor-
tunities to help local businesses thrive.
The application period is July 14 through Aug. 15. Awards will be announced in the fall. To apply, a company must:
- Be a brick-and-mortar small business with 25 or fewer full-time equivalent employees
- Be located in Bridgeport within zip codes: 06604, 06605, 06606, 06607, 06608, or 06610
- Have operated for at least one year, as verified by the Connecticut Secretary of State
- Demonstrate how the grant will stimulate business growth and positively impact the local community
- Commit to completing the project by Aug. 31, 2026
- Participate in post-award storytelling and documentation efforts
- Pass a background check
Note: BRBC membership or Optimum Business customer status will not affect application review.
Awarded funds must support business improvement and community enrichment. Eligible uses include:
Beautification Projects (with property owner consent):
- Façade upgrades
- New exterior signage
- Landscaping enhancements
Marketing Initiatives:
- Website design or improvements
- Digital or multimedia campaigns
- Printed marketing materials
Business Development:
- Product or service expansion
- Interior improvements
The following projects are eligible for the grant: salaries or staffing, payment of past taxes or debts, Vehicles or “rolling stock, ” and program administration.
The program is managed by BRBC, with funding support from Optimum Business. A selection committee will evaluate applications based on eligibility, potential impact, and project readiness.
Grant recipients will sign a letter of agreement detailing project scope and reporting requirements and submit a final report with receipts, outcome summary, and photos. If the business closes or is sold before project completion, the owners must return the grant funds.
What you’ll need to apply
- Completed application form
- Certificate of Good Standing from the state Secretary of State
- Current business license
- Business overview, including:
- Founding history
- Products/services
- Unique value or competitive advantage
- Photos of the business owner and storefront
- Business logo
- Signed W-9
Finalists will be contacted to complete a background check via a disclosure form.
