The HuCapital x Desmond Fontaine Foundation 'Catalyst' Grant is a $1,500 microgrant designed to support early-stage entrepreneurs who are developing innovative, product-based or community-focused businesses. This opportunity provides non-dilutive funding, meaning recipients do not give up equity in exchange for support. It is ideal for founders aiming to build ventures that meaningfully impact their industries or communities through unique products or by fostering stronger social or professional networks.

This grant is offered through a partnership between HuCapital and the Desmond Fontaine Foundation. HuCapital is a professional social media platform powered by the AI engine Huey, which focuses on personalizing career and business growth for its users. Their mission is to foster a global community of professionals centered on communal, financial, and wellness-driven progress. The Desmond Fontaine Foundation, a nonprofit entity, exists to uplift innovative young professionals who lack the resources to bring their ideas to life, offering financial and technological support to empower their ventures.

To be eligible, applicants must be the founder or co-founder of a business that is in its early stages. The business must be either product-centric—such as those in web, mobile, SaaS, food, beverage, consumer goods, or fashion—or community-centric, focused on social or professional groups. Applicants must reside in the United States, and there is no requirement for the business to be a registered legal entity, recognizing that this grant could provide the means to formalize operations. Importantly, the grant is geared toward businesses that show innovation by addressing real-world challenges, implementing new methodologies, or enhancing existing solutions.

The grant funds can be used to support various facets of business growth including product development, marketing, and operations. Preference is given to those ventures that reflect the grantors' missions—innovative, impact-driven, and aligned with modern professional and community development goals.

Applications must be submitted by the extended deadline of Friday, April 30, 2025. The selected recipient will be notified no later than Monday, June 30, 2025.