MICRO-GRANT PROGRAM

The Polson Chamber of Commerce Micro-Grant Program provides small grants to support projects, events, and initiatives that strengthen our local business community and promote the Polson area.

These grants help Chamber members bring ideas to life that enhance economic activity, create community engagement, and increase visibility for Polson businesses.

The program supports the Chamber’s mission: To serve, support, and strengthen our members by enhancing the business climate, promoting our area, and fostering a sense of community.

Grant Amounts

The Chamber allocates up to $2,000 per fiscal year for the Micro-Grant Program.

Individual awards may be approved in full or in part, depending on available funds and the number of applications received. Receiving a grant in one year does not guarantee funding in future years.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must:
• Be a current Polson Chamber of Commerce member in good standing
• Operate within the Polson area
• Submit a complete application through the Chamber’s online form
• Demonstrate a clear benefit to the local business community or Chamber membership

Applicants will be asked to provide:
• Organization name
• Primary contact information
• A brief description of the organization and its mission

What Types of Projects Are Eligible

Micro-grants are intended to support initiatives that benefit the local business community.
Examples may include:
• Community events that attract visitors or shoppers
• Business-related educational programs or workshops
• Collaborative promotions that encourage local spending
• Projects that strengthen community engagement or economic activity

Projects should demonstrate a clear benefit to Chamber members or the Polson business community.

Funding Restrictions

Micro-grants may not be used for:
• Ongoing operational expenses
• Personal travel
• Projects outside the Chamber service area

Applicants may not receive funding for the same or substantially similar project in consecutive years.

How the Micro-Grant Process Works

Step 1 — Submit Application
Complete the online application form at least 30 days before the event or funding need.

Step 2 — Application Review
Applications may be reviewed by a Board-appointed committee in an advisory capacity.

Step 3 — Board Decision
Final funding decisions are made by the Polson Chamber Board of Directors.

Step 4 — Project Implementation & Recognition
If approved, recipients implement their project and provide appropriate recognition to the Chamber.

What Makes a Strong Application

Applications are more likely to be successful when they clearly demonstrate:

• A benefit to the Polson business community
• A project that is realistic and well planned
• Collaboration with other businesses or organizations
• A clear explanation of how the funds will be used
• A plan for recognizing the Polson Chamber’s support

Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the Chamber’s mission, community impact, feasibility, financial responsibility, and visibility for the Chamber.

Recognition Requirements

Organizations receiving funding agree to:

• Participate in a photo opportunity with a Chamber Board member when feasible
• Display the Polson Chamber logo in promotional materials or signage
• Publicly acknowledge the Chamber’s support
• Allow the Chamber to use photos and media for promotional purposes

Reporting & Accountability

Grant recipients may be asked to submit a brief post-project summary describing:

• How funds were used
• Attendance or participation results
• Community impact

Failure to meet reporting expectations may affect eligibility for future funding.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the Chamber’s official funding request form and must be submitted at least 30 days before the event or funding need.

Frequently Asked Question

How much funding can I request?
Award amounts vary depending on the project and available funding. Grants may be approved in full or in part.

Can I apply more than once?
Yes. However, the same or substantially similar project may not receive funding in consecutive years.

When will I hear back about my application?
Applications are reviewed periodically by the Board, and applicants will be notified after a decision is made.

Do I need to be a Chamber member?
Yes. Applicants must be current Polson Chamber members in good standing.