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Naturally Lewis, Inc. Opens Applications for 2025 Funding Opportunities

January 15, 2025

Lewis County, NY – Naturally Lewis, Inc. is announcing its 2025 funding opportunities with seven opportunities for businesses, commercial property owners, community organizations, and youth. These funding opportunities are: (1) Building Business Fund, (2) Business Retention Fund, (3) Community Connections Fund, (4) Launch Lewis County, (5) Small Things, Big Impacts Fund, (6) Student Pitch Competition and (7) Vacant Property Revitalization Fund.

The Building Business Fund, funded through the Community Economic Development Program, will support local businesses providing matching funds to invest in the “tools” to scale up and grow. Funds can be used for literal tools (equipment/machinery) or figurative tools (business services/professional services) to assist business growth. Projects must show overall benefit to the community and promote economic development through business growth. Applications are currently open and reviewed on a quarterly basis.

The Business Retention Fund, funded through the Community Economic Development Program and Lewis County, will support existing businesses by providing matching funds to businesses looking to sustain their business operations following a natural disaster, act of God, or mandate affecting business retention or operations. Applications are currently open and reviewed on a quarterly basis.

The Community Connections Fund, funded through the Community Economic Development Program, will support non-profit organizations, municipalities, and schools in developing partnerships, building organizational capacity, and executing projects that foster collaboration and economic growth. Applications are currently open and reviewed on a quarterly basis.

The Launch Lewis County Program, funded by NYS Office of Homes & Community Renewal, will support low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs in starting up their businesses. Applications are currently open and reviewed on a quarterly basis.

The Small Things, Big Impacts Fund, funded through the Community Economic Development Program and HLH Living Trust, will support Lewis County businesses and nonprofit organizations to implement innovative, small-scale projects that enhance visibility, build capacity, and drive growth. Additionally, there is a focus on funding events and festivals that bring visitors to our community. Applications are currently open and reviewed on a quarterly basis.

The Student Pitch Competition, funded through the Community Economic Development Program, will support young entrepreneurs through a business proposal competition for high school students in Lewis County. Applications open on January 20, 2025 and close on May 1, 2025.

The Vacant Property Revitalization Fund, funded by Lewis County, will support building owners that are looking to revitalize vacant buildings or floors into usable spaces for commercial use. Applications are currently open and reviewed on a quarterly basis.

Find more information about current funding opportunities and building your business in Lewis County, New York at naturallylewis.com or by following Naturally Lewis, Inc. on Facebook and LinkedIn.

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