Black Business Association Launches Microgrant Program

Source: Black Business Association of Amherst Area

The Black Business Association of Amherst Area (BBAAA) encourages current and aspiring entrepreneurs to apply for support with startup costs and operating expenses. The application deadline is Wednesday, September 30, 2026. The grant application form and guidelines can be found on the BBAAA website:

Eligible Expenses

Grant awards range from $500 to $2000.

Eligible expenses cover a wide range: rent, utilities, phone, and internet. Marketing and advertising. Equipment, technology, and software. Auto repairs. Licenses, permits, and regulatory fees. Even membership dues and professional service fees count.

If it’s a real cost of running or launching your business, there’s a good chance it qualifies.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to BBAAA members. BBAAA membership is open to Black and non-Black business owners, organizations, and professionals. There’s a one-time membership fee of $25.00, and Youth Membership, for anyone under age 30, is free. Apply here.

BBAAA Board President Pat Ononibaku remarked:

“Ten years ago a small group of black entrepreneurs came together to address racism, invisibility, promote resilience and facilitate connections to capital, investments and growth. Today, BBAAA is a recognized 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a growing membership. We are excited to be in a position to mark our persistence of a decade to provide cash assistance to businesses through this inaugural cycle of microgrant funds to support our members. We are establishing our resilience despite being denied local ARPA funding the town chose to put in free cash.”

Questions or comments regarding the microgrant fund project, including those concerning technical support and language translation support services, should be emailed to the Board President, Pat Ononibaku, at bbaamherst@gmail.com.