Funded by Prosper Portland, Guide on the Side (GOTS) launched a specialized initiative to build a robust grant program from the ground up, specifically designed to empower small businesses across Oregon.
Serving as the advisory facilitator, along with a selected partner, I guided a dedicated cohort of local entrepreneurs through an intensive, 8-month paid journey. Together, we designed every foundational layer of a successful grant program, including:
Targeting Impact: Determining exactly who the funding would serve best.
Clear Grading: Crafting transparent, objective grading rubrics.
Building Community Power: Assembling evaluation committees and structuring a fair selection process.
The 8-Month Journey: "Find Funding to Do Cool Stuff"
To complement the program's design, cohort members participated in four deeply practical, hands-on workshops:
Purpose & Contribution
Navigating the Landscape
Setting Up Your Internal Grant Systems
Submitting the First Application
Meet the Cohort
This incredible journey was powered by a diverse group of visionary local creators, innovators, and advocates:
Miles Powers Music
Pdx lost&found
Callie's Custom Hat Wigs
MOXI
It's Time Podcast: Girls, Gays, and Theys
SISTAS EMPOWERMEnt Corp.
Wise Eyes Renovations, LLC
New Coyote Consulting
Impact
Cohort members walked away demystifying the funding ecosystem, with many immediately setting up streamlined internal grant processes.
The ultimate testament to their vision, dedication, and hard work? By the following year, cohort members reported that they had collectively secured over $100,000 in grants.

