Foundations
1,432
Total Assets
$13.2B
Total Giving
$2.7B
Active Grants
178
National Rank
#26
Utah Grant Programs: Economic Opportunity, Rural Development, and Innovation Funding
Utah's grant landscape is anchored by the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO), which administers a growing portfolio of programs designed to sustain the state's reputation as one of the nation's strongest economies.
From the Economic Assistance Grant Program offering tiered funding up to $200,000 for businesses promoting economic growth, to the Rural Employment Development Incentive providing up to $250,000 per year for job creation in rural communities, Utah has built a focused set of tools that balance urban dynamism with rural development.
The state's Economic Development Tax Increment Financing program and its rural counterpart REDTIF provide additional incentives for businesses making long-term investments, while the statewide small business capital access program ensures that entrepreneurs at every stage can find support for growth and stability.
Key State Programs
Economic Assistance Grant Program
Tiered funding through GOEO supporting businesses that promote economic growth through industry, education, community development, and infrastructure. Tier 1 grants up to $50,000, Tier 2 up to $100,000, and Tier 3 up to $200,000, with eligibility based on economic impact and alignment with state priorities.
Rural Employment Development Incentive (REDI)
Grants of up to $250,000 per year specifically for businesses creating jobs in rural Utah, with individual job creation incentives of up to $6,000 per position. Designed to promote economic diversification and employment opportunities outside the Wasatch Front corridor.
Elevate Utah (SBIR/STTR Matching Grants)
Non-competitive matching grants of up to $50,000 for Utah-based technology businesses that have received federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II awards. Supports continued research, development, and commercialization of innovative technologies validated through federal review.
Division of Multicultural Affairs Capacity Grant
Grants of $5,000 to $10,000 for recently established nonprofit organizations to invest in organizational development, including board development, human resource management, strategic planning, and governance structures that strengthen long-term sustainability.
Cooperative Marketing Grant
Matching funds of up to $225,000 for eligible organizations working to enhance Utah's visitor economy. A collaborative initiative supporting tourism marketing, destination development, and visitor engagement strategies across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main state agency for business grants in Utah?
The Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) is the primary state agency administering business grants and economic development incentives in Utah. GOEO manages the Economic Assistance Grant Program, REDI grants for rural job creation, the Elevate Utah SBIR/STTR matching program, and various other economic development initiatives. Their grants portal at business.utah.gov/grants lists all current opportunities with application timelines.
Are there specific grants for rural businesses in Utah?
Yes, Utah's Rural Employment Development Incentive (REDI) provides grants of up to $250,000 per year for businesses creating jobs in rural counties, with individual incentives of up to $6,000 per job created. The REDTIF tax increment financing program also offers enhanced incentive amounts for projects in rural Utah compared to the standard EDTIF program. The state's 12 Regional Development Centers provide additional technical assistance for rural businesses seeking funding.
How can new nonprofits in Utah get grant funding to build capacity?
The Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs offers capacity-building grants of $5,000 to $10,000 specifically for recently established nonprofit organizations. These grants support foundational investments in board development, human resource management, strategic planning, and governance. The annual project period runs from July through June, with applications accepted during the spring. Additional capacity-building resources are available through the Utah Nonprofit Association and community foundations.
What technology and innovation grants does Utah offer?
Utah's Elevate Utah program provides non-competitive matching grants of up to $50,000 for businesses that have received federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II awards. This effectively supplements federal innovation funding with state dollars to support commercialization. The Economic Assistance Grant Program also supports technology-related projects through its tiered funding structure up to $200,000 for businesses demonstrating economic growth potential.
When are Utah state grant application windows open?
Utah's GOEO grant windows are structured with specific timelines. Economic development planning grants typically accept applications from July 1 through September 1, while project grants open from September 14 through October 30. The Division of Multicultural Affairs capacity grants follow a spring application cycle for July-June project periods. The GOEO recommends checking business.utah.gov/grants regularly, as the Legislature occasionally allocates new grant programs throughout the year.
Explore
Utah Funding Resources
Top Foundations
Largest Foundations in Utah
| # | Foundation | Assets |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Volkswagen-Stiftung | $4.9B |
| 2 | George S Eccles And Delores Dore Eccles Foundation | $966.8M |
| 3 | Larry H Miller & Gail Miller Family Foundation | $773.9M |
| 4 | Call To Action Foundation | $665.4M |
| 5 | Jon And Karen Huntsman Foundation | $556.5M |
Active Grants