The Moving Flint Forward grant program is designed to support small businesses in the City of Flint by providing funding opportunities that promote business growth, expansion, and economic revitalization beyond the city’s downtown area and into the surrounding neighborhoods. This initiative is a collaborative effort between General Motors (GM) and the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance, with the goal of strengthening local businesses and ensuring long-term economic sustainability. A total of 16 grants of up to $10,000 each will be awarded to small businesses that effectively demonstrate a need or opportunity that aligns with the grant's purpose. Additionally, previous grantees may apply for an alumni grant of up to $5,000, with 10 such awards available. A key focus of the program is to support minority-owned businesses, with 75% of the funding earmarked for this group.

The funds provided through the grant may be used for business growth and expansion efforts, including repairs, leasehold improvements, inventory, and equipment purchases. However, there are specific restrictions on fund usage. Grant funds may not be used for payroll, rent, staffing, mortgage payments, or debt service on any federal, state, or local taxes owed. All grant recipients will be required to participate in a cohort that meets 3-4 times throughout the grant period to network, provide updates, share best practices, receive expert training, and obtain technical support.

To be eligible for the Moving Flint Forward grant, applicants must meet several requirements. Businesses must be located and operated within the City of Flint and have been in operation for at least one year. Businesses must be small businesses with fewer than 20 employees and must not be franchises. They must also have generated revenue within the past year and provide a current business plan (handwritten business plans will not be accepted). Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their ability to manage a reimbursable grant by submitting a Business Finance Statement showing at least $3,000 available in a business bank account or business credit card. Businesses must also host at least one site visit with program staff to showcase progress. Certain businesses and individuals are ineligible, including nonprofits, businesses utilizing other grant funds to fulfill reimbursement obligations, businesses in bankruptcy, and applicants listed on the Michigan State Police Sex Offender Registry or who are non-compliant with the U.S. Patriot Act.

The application process includes several steps. Applicants must create an account on the Moving Flint Forward application site and complete a Letter of Intent (LOI) to determine eligibility. Once approved, they will be invited to complete the full application, which requires details such as a business description, a statement of need, a proposed budget, financial statements, a business plan, and professional references. Completed applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025.

Potential applicants are encouraged to attend at least one informational session before applying. Sessions will be held at Berston Field House on the following dates:

Monday, March 3, 2025, from Noon to 1:30 p.m. (general information session)
Monday, March 10, 2025, and Monday, March 17, 2025, from Noon to 3:00 p.m. (open office hours and information sessions)
For assistance with the application or any technical questions, applicants can contact Tracy Joseph at (810) 600-1406. Additional inquiries can be directed to the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance at info@flintandgenesee.org or by calling (810) 600-1404. The program seeks to support local entrepreneurs in expanding their businesses while contributing to the economic development of Flint’s communities.