The Inspiring Diversity Grant application is closed.

Inspiring Diversity Grant

Contact: Sue Bal, email

Launch or expand a diversity and equity program within your organization with help from Prosper Portland

The Inspiring Diversity Grant offers funding for local traded-sector employers (those selling goods and services outside Portland) to inspire creative, equity-related best practices around workforce and to build new community partnerships with underrepresented populations. Inspiring Diversity Grant recipients contribute to best practices for the larger business community and are leaders in building an equitable economy for all Portlanders.

Companies can apply for up to $10,000 in funds. Preference will be given to companies who can match the requested funds.

Company projects can be focused either internally or externally. Examples include:

Organizational trainings or education
Development of a diversity hiring plan
Increasing career pathways for existing employees from diverse backgrounds
New partnerships with community non-profits
Development or expansion of diversity supplier programs
Development of a diversity and equity market assessment
Other activities designed to make the business more competitive from a diversity and inclusion perspective.

Preference will be given to companies that can match the requested funds and that are within one of the city’s identified priority industries (Athletic & Outdoor/Consumer Products, Food & Beverage Manufacturing, Green Cities Products & Services, Technology & Media, Manufacturing).

Projects that demonstrate innovation and new approaches, community engagement or impact, replicability to other companies, and leadership/executive commitment will receive priority.

Companies must be located in the City of Portland.

If selected, grant recipients must also agree to sign up for Portland Means Progress, a citywide initiative that provides connections for businesses to hire local underrepresented students and young professionals of color, purchase from businesses owned by people of color, and create diverse and vibrant workforce and company cultures.

View past award recipients and their projects