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City, Orlando Economic Partnership offer $65,000 in tech community grants

PHOTO BY BILL HAMWAY VIA UNSPLASH.COM

The City of Orlando and the Orlando Economic Partnership are opening applications for the 2026 Orlando Tech Community Support Grant Program, offering $65,000 to organizations that support the region’s technology workforce and community.

Applications opened on August 14 and are due August 28 at 11:59 p.m. The city funds the program, while the Orlando Economic Partnership administers it.

The grant is divided into two tracks:

  • Ignite Grants range from $1,500 to $3,000 and are intended for grassroots programs like meetups, mentorship circles, hackathons, and community events, with about 8 to 12 awards expected.
  • Capability Catalyst Grants range from $8,000 to $15,000 and support larger initiatives such as accelerators and talent pipeline programs, with about 3 to 4 awards expected.

According to the grant website, eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations operating in or serving the City of Orlando, fiscally sponsored projects, mission-aligned for-profit organizations running ecosystem-building programs, and volunteer-led initiatives applying through a qualified fiscal sponsor. Individual companies seeking operating capital, individuals applying on their own behalf, and government agencies are not eligible. Each award requires a 10 percent match, which can include cash, donated services, or in-kind support.

Strong proposals should connect to at least one strategic priority, including strengthening Orlando’s innovation community, advancing regional technology capabilities, building the tech talent pipeline, supporting the retention of Orlando-based tech employers, or increasing participation from underserved communities.

Winners will be notified Sept. 11, with a public announcement set for September 18. Grant agreements are expected to be executed and funds disbursed by September 30, with funded programs running from October 2026 through January 2027.

More information and the application are available at orlando.org.