Grants + Technical Assistance

The BBEC publicizes grants that we believe will be of benefit to Black entrepreneurs and Black businesses. Grants marked with the BBEC logo have been reviewed by our organization.

BBEC Professional Expertise Grant

Funding will be available to cover the cost of professional expenses for Black businesses. This grant is made possible by the generous contribution of Mike and Rebecca Thompson. Grants up to $1,500 available.

First come, first served. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Berkshire Afro Renaissance Grant

The Berkshire Black Economic Council’s Black Arts Council is proud to announce Berkshire Afro Renaissance Grant. This grant is for Black youth, ages 12-25 years old, to support local Afro artist’s equipment needs. Example include but are not limited to:

  • Paint, easel, sketchbook
  • Sewing machine, fabric scissors
  • Camera, poloroid film, tripod
  • Instruments, stage props, DJ turntables
  • Adobe, photoshop
  • Craft supplies: glue gun, collage paper and so much more!
  • Other (Not shown here)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Cabot Family Charitable Trust

Cabot Family Charitable Trust supports nonprofit organizations serving communities through education, health, human services, and cultural initiatives. Funding focuses on programs that improve opportunities and quality of life.

These grants help organizations expand services, strengthen operations, and support community well-being.

Deadline to apply: September 1, 2026

Visit Cabot Family Charitable Trust to apply and learn more details.

Amelia Peabody Foundation Grant

Amelia Peabody Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations engaged in conservation, historic preservation, animal welfare, education, and community development. Funding focuses on projects that create lasting public benefit.

These grants help organizations preserve important resources, expand programming, and strengthen community impact.

Deadline to apply: September 1, 2026

Visit Amelia Peabody Foundation to apply and learn more details.

Amelia Peabody Charitable Fund

Amelia Peabody Charitable Fund supports nonprofit organizations working in conservation, animal welfare, health, recreation, and human services. Funding focuses on projects that improve communities and enhance quality of life.

These grants help organizations expand programs, improve facilities, and strengthen services for the communities they serve.

Deadline to apply: August 1, 2026

Visit Amelia Peabody Charitable Fund to apply and learn more details.

Venture Fund

Venture Fund supports nonprofit organizations working to address community needs and improve quality of life throughout Berkshire County. Funding focuses on programs that create meaningful and measurable community impact.

These grants help organizations expand services, strengthen operations, and better serve local residents.

Deadline to apply: September 30, 2026

Visit Berkshire United Way to apply and learn more details.

America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative Food Access and Retail Expansion Fund

America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative Food Access and Retail Expansion Fund supports projects that increase access to healthy food in underserved communities. Funding focuses on food retail, distribution, and infrastructure that improve food availability.

These grants help organizations expand food access, strengthen local food systems, and support community health outcomes.

Deadline to apply: October 30, 2026

Visit FARE Fund to apply and learn more details.

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready National Grant

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready National Grant supports small businesses seeking to strengthen their digital presence and business operations. The program focuses on helping entrepreneurs access tools, training, and resources for growth.

These grants help businesses improve digital capabilities, expand operations, and build long-term sustainability.

Deadline to apply: Rolling

Visit Verizon Digital Ready to apply and learn more details.

ALS Association Research Funding

ALS Association Research Funding supports scientific research focused on understanding, treating, and ultimately curing ALS. The funding prioritizes innovative projects that advance knowledge and improve outcomes for individuals affected by the disease.

These grants help researchers accelerate discoveries, develop new therapies, and contribute to long-term progress in ALS treatment and care.

Deadline to apply: Rolling

Visit ALS Therapy Development Institute to apply and learn more details.

Food and Emergency Relief Fund

Food and Emergency Relief Fund supports organizations and initiatives addressing urgent community needs, including food insecurity, housing instability, and emergency assistance. The funding focuses on helping communities respond to immediate challenges and provide essential support services.

These grants help organizations expand emergency response efforts, strengthen community resources, and assist individuals and families facing hardship.

Deadline to apply: Rolling

Visit Berkshire United Way to apply and learn more details.

BBEC & Roots Rising’s BIPOC Vendor Fund

Roots Rising is committed to fostering inclusive participation in the movement towards a just and sustainable food system. To that end we are excited to announce this fund to support BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) farmers and entrepreneurs.

Apply now! Rolling deadline.

JSF Indigenous Peoples Grant Program

JSF Indigenous Peoples Grant Program supports initiatives that improve education and opportunity for Indigenous communities. The program focuses on advancing equity and access.

This funding helps organizations strengthen programs, support students, and promote long-term community success.

Deadline to apply: Rolling

Visit JSF to apply and learn more details.

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