The Economic Equity Investment Program (EEIP) – Small Grant for Businesses is part of Oregon’s commitment to fostering economic stability and equity. Established through SB 1579, the program was designed to address longstanding economic inequities by supporting disadvantaged individuals, families, businesses, and communities. With funding distributed to organizations across the state, EEIP focuses on four key areas: ownership of land and property, entrepreneurship and business development, workforce, and intergenerational wealth building.
The Oregon Frontier Chamber of Commerce (OFCC) has been awarded additional funding to distribute through the EEIP Small Grant Program. This grant aims to support entrepreneurs by providing financial resources to help businesses grow, encourage learning, and foster development. Whether you’re launching a new business or looking to expand, EEIP offers a valuable opportunity to invest in your future.
Total Grant Funds Available: $24,000
This program is open to businesses in Sherman, Gilliam, and Wheeler Counties and is part of a broader effort to build economic resilience in our rural communities.
Who qualifies for EEI Programs?
EEIP beneficiaries consist of individuals, families, businesses, and communities whose future is at risk because of any combination of two or more of the following economic equity risk factors.
Economic Risk Factors Include:
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How to Apply for the EEIP Small Grant
Step 1: Qualify for EEIP
To apply for the EEIP Small Grant, businesses must first qualify for the Economic Equity Investment Program (EEIP).
- Sign up for EEIP: Register HERE.
- Approval Process: Once approved, applicants will receive an email confirmation with further instructions.
Step 2: Submit a Grant Application
Eligible applicants may apply for funding based on their business status:
- New Business: Businesses with no sales in the last 12 months may apply for a maximum award of $2,000.
- Existing Business: Businesses with recorded sales in the last 12 months may apply for a maximum award of $4,000.
Eligibility Note: Businesses that have previously received an EEIP grant are not eligible to apply.
Application Timeline
- Application Period: February 17 – March 16, 2025
- Important Notice: The application must be completed in one session and cannot be saved to return to later. Applicants are encouraged to review all guidelines in advance to ensure a smooth submission process.
f.a.q.
- Businesses must be headquartered in Sherman, Gilliam, or Wheeler Counties, Oregon.
- Businesses operating under a name other than the full legal name of the owner must be registered in Oregon.
- If business registration is required but not yet completed, OFCC can assist in the registration process before awarding any funds.
Deadline: All awarded grant funds must be spent, and receipts for all purchases submitted, by May 31, 2025.
Grant funds may be used for:
✔ Business Assets (such as tools and equipment)
✔ Working Capital (inventory, supplies, consultants, specialized training, etc.)
✔ Marketing (website development, advertising, social media, branding, graphic design, etc.)
🚫 Travel expenses
🚫 Owner salary, rent, utilities
🚫 Expenses related to multi-level marketing businesses
🚫 Repayment of debt
Applicants will be notified by email if their application is incomplete or does not meet qualification criteria.
Incomplete applications must be completed within seven days or will be disqualified.
Applicants requesting funds for ineligible uses will be notified and given seven days to update their request.
Award Selection: Grants will be awarded through a lottery system. All eligible applicants will be entered into a pool, and a random selection will take place on March 31, 2025.
Grant recipients must sign a grant agreement outlining fund usage guidelines.
Recipients must provide documentation and responses regarding how funds were used when requested by OFCC.
OFCC staff is available to assist with the application process before March 14, 2025.
📞 Call: 541-384-7777
📧 Email:
[email protected]