Nearly 20 Town of Bethlehem Businesses Express Interest in Microenterprise Grant Program

Strong response to 2025 application cycle highlights demand for local investment and sets stage for future funding

(Bethlehem, NY) The Town of Bethlehem has received strong interest in its 2025 Microenterprise Grant Program, with 13 complete applications submitted by the December deadline and interest from additional businesses preparing for a future round.

The response underscores the vitality of Bethlehem’s small business community and the continued need for local investment tools that help entrepreneurs grow, adapt, and succeed.

The Town was awarded $200,000 for the 2025 round of the Microenterprise Grant Program, which supports new and existing microenterprises with five or fewer employees. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $35,000 are available to help businesses purchase equipment, furnishings, and other capital needs, or to provide working capital to support operations.

First launched in 2014, the program has supported 29 local businesses through four funding rounds, distributing more than $700,000 to date. The level of interest in this round signals a strong pipeline of businesses that could support a future request for additional funding in 2026.

“This kind of response tells us that Bethlehem’s small businesses are engaged, growing, and actively seeking ways to strengthen their operations,” said Brianne Conner, Senior Economic Developer for the Town of Bethlehem. “It’s also a reminder that Bethlehem’s economy is built on a wide range of businesses, from small startups to established employers, all of which contribute to the Town’s economic strength and quality of life.”

Grant recipients for the 2025 round will be announced in February.

For more information about the Microenterprise Grant Program, contact:
Brianne Conner
Senior Economic Developer
Town of Bethlehem
Economic Development and Planning Department
518-439-4955, ext 1189, bconner@bethlehemny.gov

About the Town of Bethlehem Economic Development
The Town of Bethlehem is a vibrant suburban community located in Albany County, New York, with a strong mix of residential neighborhoods, local businesses, commercial centers, and industrial partners. Known for its high quality of life, engaged civic culture, and strategic location in the Capital Region, Bethlehem is home to a diverse and growing business community. Through thoughtful planning, economic development initiatives, and partnerships with local stakeholders, the Town works to support entrepreneurship, strengthen its local economy, and ensure long-term community vitality