Celebrating five years of impact, the neighborhood-focused fund supports workforce, education, and quality of life initiatives.
16 Tech Community Corporation, the nonprofit responsible for the 16 Tech Innovation District, opened applications for the 16 Tech Community Investment Fund.
Established in 2019, the 16 Tech Community Investment Funds ensures that the growth of the 16 Tech Innovation District directly benefits nearby neighborhoods by allocating $0.20 per square foot leased to the fund. Celebrating its fifth year of impact, 16 Tech has awarded more than $2.2 million to 65 projects that support community needs and enhance the quality of life for the district’s closest neighbors.
“The success of 16 Tech is measured by the opportunities we help create—for innovative companies and small businesses to launch and grow in the district, and for our neighbors to prosper,” said Emily Krueger, president and CEO of 16 Tech. “As we celebrate the fifth anniversary of the 16 Tech Community Investment Fund, we continue our commitment to the neighborhoods of which we are a part and invite bold proposals that transform local vision into lasting impact.”
The 16 Tech Community Investment Fund is guided by an advisory committee, consisting of 16 Tech neighbors and neighborhood organizations, that ensure the fund, and its grants, align with priorities identified by residents in the Near West, Near Northwest, Historic Flanner House Homes and Ransom Place neighborhoods. Projects are funded through two grant pools: the Innovation Pool, offering up to $25,000, and the Impact Pool, offering up to $100,000, with multi-year support available. Focus areas include workforce development, education, infrastructure, and business support.
“The 16 Tech Community Investment Fund has helped our neighbors turn ideas into tangible impact,” said Sibeko Jywanza, director of community relations at 16 Tech. “These projects are rooted in what matters most to nearby residents, creating thriving communities.”
Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or individuals working with a nonprofit fiscal agent. “We’re investing in more than programs, we’re investing in people,” said Tracey Jackson, vice president of workforce development and community impact at 16 Tech. “Whether it’s supporting a STEAM bootcamp or a new career training initiative, these dollars are building a future that works.”
Applications are open from July 15 through Sept. 26. An information session for interested applicants will take place on Monday, Aug. 11, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the HqO Building and online. More information, including eligibility and application guidelines, is available at www.16tech.com/grants.
