En Común is working to support community members build businesses, farms, and community projects that they own and control. Instead of relying only on grants or outside funding, we're building new ways for communities left out of traditional financing to fund and grow the things their neighborhoods need. This round, En Común is partnering with Cooperacion SA, CRECE Urban Farms, THRIVE, and Community Hub de Santa Ana to give out $22,000 total, with awards up to $5,000 per project.
Who Can Apply: You can apply if you live in Orange County and you're a local entrepreneur, cooperative owner, community artist, small non-profit, urban gardener, farmer, or similar. Groups of any size can apply including individual small-business owners — but we especially welcome groups that share decision-making among members. Your project can be at any stage, from just an idea to something already running, and the money can be used for things like start-up costs, equipment, labor, professional development, or help with marketing and planning.
What We're Looking For: We're prioritizing projects led by and benefiting low-income, frontline, and BIPOC communities, especially ones that involve shared leadership, build community skills and power, and support a healthy local economy that doesn't harm people or the environment. You don't need a perfect application or years of experience; we just want to understand your project, your values, and why this work matters to you.
What to Expect: Applications open August 14, 2026, and are due September 14, 2026. There's an optional orientation on August 18, and 1-on-1 support is available August 24 - September 10 if you need help along the way. If selected, you'll join a community of practitioners, get invited to annual gatherings, and receive support beyond just funding - but you'll also need to keep receipts, share a short report on how the money was used, and submit a W-9 for tax purposes.