Invest in Your Business Growth
Get Up to $2,000 for Training That Takes Your Business to the Next Level
The Grow Cambridge Business Education Grant helps established Cambridge-area business owners access the training and mentoring they need to grow. Whether it's mastering cash flow, learning new software, improving your marketing, or coaching a key employee—we'll match your investment up to $2,000.
APPLY NOWHow It Works
The Grow Cambridge Business Education Grant is simple, flexible, and designed for you.
Choose Your Training
Select the training or mentoring program that addresses your specific business needs. You decide what will help your business most.
Apply for the Grant
Complete our straightforward application. We'll review it within 15 calendar days and let you know if you're approved.
Get Funded
Once approved, sign the grant agreement and receive a check for up to $2,000—50% of your training costs.
Grow Your Business
Complete your training, apply what you learn, and share your progress with us at 90 and 180 days.
Who Can Apply?
This grant is for established Cambridge-area businesses ready to grow.
Your Business Must:
- Be actively operating for at least 1 year
- Be located in OR have an owner residing in the 53523 zip code
- Have an established business presence (registered entity, EIN, business bank account)
- Be any type of business—retail, restaurant, service, professional, solopreneur, and more
The Training Must:
- Address a specific business growth need
- Be something without free alternatives readily available
- Come from a qualified provider, consultant, or organization
You Must:
- Contribute 50% of the total training cost
- Complete progress reports at 90 and 180 days
What Can You Use This For?
The grant supports training and mentoring tailored to YOUR business needs:
Business Operations & Finance
- Cash flow management coaching
- Financial planning and analysis
- Inventory management systems
- Accounting software training
Technical Skills
- Industry-specific software training
- Digital tools and technology implementation
- E-commerce platform setup
- Data analytics and reporting
Marketing & Sales
- Visual merchandising workshops
- Digital marketing strategies
- Social media management
- Customer acquisition tactics
Leadership & Management
- One-on-one business coaching
- Strategic planning facilitation
- Team development training
- Succession planning
Employee Development
- Critical training for key employees
- Skills development that impacts business growth
- Certifications and professional development
Industry-Specific
- Professional certifications
- Compliance training
- Specialized skills development
- Trade-specific education
Grant Details
We Match Your Investment
For every dollar you invest in your business growth, we'll match it.
Amount
Up to $2,000 per business annually
Match
You pay 50%, we pay 50%
Example
$4,000 training = $2,000 you + $2,000 us
Payment
Check issued directly to you after signed agreement
Timeline
Rolling applications until funds exhausted
Use Period
Funds must be used within 90 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Can solopreneurs apply?
Yes! If you have an established business presence and have been operating for at least 1 year, you're eligible.
What if I can't afford the 50% match upfront?
Many training providers offer payment plans. You can pay your 50% in installments if your provider allows it.
Can I use this for employee training?
Yes! If training a key employee will directly impact your business growth and sustainability, it's an eligible use of grant funds.
What if my training costs less than $4,000?
We match 50% of whatever your training costs. If your training is $2,000, you pay $1,000 and we pay $1,000.
Can I apply if my business is outside Cambridge but I live in 53523?
Yes! Either your business location OR your residence as the owner must be in the 53523 zip code.
What happens if I can't complete the training?
Life happens. If you have a legitimate reason (illness, family emergency, provider cancellation), contact us immediately. We'll work with you to find a solution.
Can I apply for multiple trainings?
You may receive one grant per calendar year, but you can reapply in subsequent years.
Don't Wait—Funds Are Limited
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. The sooner you apply, the better your chances of receiving funding.
APPLY NOWQuestions? We're here to help.
Email: collaborative523@gmail.com