This week, Arlington Economic Development (AED) announced the first round of Arlington Innovation Fund Catalyst Grant recipients. Accompanying the announcement, AED has opened the application for round two of its Catalyst Grant Program.
The goals of this program are to increase funding for early-stage technology startups through technical assistance and non-dilutive, co-investment grants. These resources help companies extend their funding and gain access to larger venture capital rounds to expand their customer base, employment, and operations in Arlington.
Catalyst Grants are designed to benefit recipients and Arlington in myriad ways. In addition to striving to meet the aforementioned goals, the program provides selected startups with a pathway to raise non-County capital that will further fuel their employee and revenue growth. This, in turn, boosts Arlington’s presence as a regional and national tech hub via a commitment to supporting the innovation ecosystem. The program also generates a pipeline of high-growth potential startups that will expand, generating increasing tax revenues over time, and bolsters entrepreneurship within the County, which may generate additional jobs and needs for leased office space.
Catalyst Grants range between $25,000 and $50,000 and have been designed to meet the needs of Arlington-based technology startups that have raised between $25,000 and $1 million in funding.
The Catalyst Grant Program follows a competitive grant process with the following base eligibility requirements:
Applications for round two of the Catalyst Grant Program are now open with a deadline to apply of March 10, 2024. Learn more about grant qualifications and how to apply!
With the launch of round two of the Catalyst Grant Program, Arlington is set to further empower technology startups and drive innovation within the County. This program, created by Arlington Economic Development (AED), aims to provide early-stage technology startups with the financial resources and support they need to thrive.
Through technical assistance and non-dilutive, co-investment grants, the Catalyst Grant Program helps startups secure additional funding and gain access to larger venture capital rounds. By extending their funding, these companies can expand their customer base, increase employment opportunities, and grow their operations in Arlington.
One of the primary objectives of the program is to generate economic growth and enhance Arlington’s reputation as a flourishing tech hub. By providing selected startups with a pathway to raise non-County capital, the Catalyst Grant Program nurtures employee and revenue growth. This not only strengthens the startups themselves but also contributes to Arlington’s standing as a regional and national center for innovation.
Furthermore, the program has long-term benefits for the County. By creating a pipeline of high-growth potential startups, Arlington expects to see increased tax revenues over time. The program also fosters entrepreneurship within the County, potentially leading to additional job creation and a greater demand for leased office space.
The Catalyst Grant Program offers grants ranging between $25,000 and $50,000. These grants are specifically tailored to the needs of Arlington-based technology startups that have already raised between $25,000 and $1 million in funding.
To apply for round two of the Catalyst Grant Program, interested startups must meet the base eligibility requirements and submit their applications by March 10, 2024. This presents a valuable opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to secure the funding and support necessary to kickstart their ventures.
Arlington’s commitment to nurturing the growth of technology startups highlights its dedication to fostering innovation and economic development. By providing funding, technical assistance, and co-investment grants, the Catalyst Grant Program lays the foundation for a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem within the County. Through this program, Arlington aims to position itself at the forefront of technology and attract top talent and groundbreaking companies to create a brighter future for the region.
Apply now and be part of Arlington’s flourishing innovation landscape. Visit the official AED website to access detailed information about grant qualifications and the application process. Don’t miss this opportunity to propel your startup toward success and contribute to Arlington’s growth as a leading tech hub.