OPERATOR IMPACT GRANT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is this a real grant?

Yes. The Operator Impact Grant awards $1,000 in non-repayable funding to one eligible BIPOC-owned business twice a year. This is not a loan, does not require equity, and does not require repayment.

Our goal is to provide capital to those who are actively building sustainable businesses.

Why is there a $25 application fee?

The $25 application fee helps cover administrative review costs and reduces spam or duplicate submissions.

Processing applications requires time, tools, and review resources. The fee allows us to maintain a fair, high-quality selection process while keeping the grant accessible.

The application fee is non-refundable.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants must:

  • Be U.S.-based BIPOC-owned business

  • Must be 18 years of age or older

  • Operate a service-based business or consultancy

    • Consulting & Professional Services
      (e.g., business consultants, project managers, operations consultants, strategy advisors)

    • Creative & Marketing Services
      (e.g., brand strategists, content creators, social media managers, graphic designers, copywriters)

    • Technology & Digital Services
      (e.g., web designers, UX/UI designers, no-code developers, IT support, systems integrators)

    • Coaching & Education Services
      (e.g., business coaches, career coaches, facilitators, trainers, course creators)

    • Administrative & Operational Support
      (e.g., virtual assistants, operations managers, OBMs, bookkeeping services)

    • Health, Wellness & Care Services
      (e.g., wellness consultants, care coordinators, therapists in private practice, fitness trainers)

    • Legal, Financial & Compliance Services
      (e.g., accounting services, tax preparation, HR consulting, compliance advisors)

  • We are not accepting 501(c)3 nonprofits at this time

  • Have been in business for two (2) years or more

  • Demonstrate a clear, business-related use of funds

Full eligibility details are listed above.

How are grant recipients selected?

Applications are reviewed by a selection committee using a standardized evaluation rubric. We assess:

  • Clarity of business vision

  • Readiness to execute

  • Specificity and impact of fund usage

  • Alignment with the grant’s mission

No single factor guarantees selection. All decisions are final.

Do I have to be a member of any program to apply?

No. The Operator Impact Grant does not require enrollment of any kind or any other program.

This initiative as part of its commitment to supporting BIPOC-owned service-based businesses, but participation in any program or service we offer is optional.

Will applying automatically add me to a mailing list?

Yes. Applicants will be added to our mailing list for details on the grant and service-based updates. Applicants may choose to opt out.

We may share data with trusted third-party companies for data analysis.

How often is the grant awarded?

The Operator Impact Grant is awarded twice a year. Application windows are announced in advance and published on this page.

Applicants who are not selected may reapply in future cycles.

Q2 2026 Grant Cycle

  • Application Window Opens: February 11, 2026

  • Application Window Closes: June 19, 2026

  • Application Review Period: July 1 – July 30, 2026

  • Grant Recipient Announcement: On or before July 31, 2026

  • Funds Disbursed: By August 30, 2026

Q4 2026 Grant Cycle

  • Application Window Opens: August 3, 2026

  • Application Window Closes: December 31, 2026

  • Application Review Period: January 1 – January 30, 2027

  • Grant Recipient Announcement: On or before January 31, 2027

  • Funds Disbursed: By February 28, 2027

What can the grant funds be used for?

Examples of what grant funds may be used for:

  • Business tools or software

  • Professional development or certifications

  • Marketing or visibility investments

  • Operational systems or infrastructure

Funds may not be used for personal expenses, debt repayment, or ongoing payroll obligations.

When and how are funds distributed?

Grant funds are distributed within 30 days of the public award announcement via electronic payment through ACH and a W-9 is required.

Recipients will receive instructions and must complete a brief confirmation process before funds are released.

Will the grant recipient be announced publicly?

Yes. Grant recipients are announced publicly.

Recipients may be invited (but not required) to share their experience after having received award to help inspire other operators by way of a quote or testimonial.

Can I apply again if I’m not selected?

Yes. Applicants who are not selected may reapply in future grant cycles as long as they continue to meet eligibility requirements.

Can I apply again if I’ve already been selected?

No. Applicants who have already been selected as a winner from a previous quarter or year may not reapply in future grant cycles as to give other applicants in need the support they deserve too.

Who can I contact with questions?

For all grant-related inquiries, please contact:
grant@thepmsuite.com