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.