Apply for Baytown Catalyst Fund Grant (United States)

Proposed Projects must align with the City’s goals of enhancing residents’ quality of life, fostering tourism and enhancing the visitor experience, and contributing to the long-term economic vitality of Baytown.

Applicants whose Project’s Pre-applications show a strong potential in meeting the objective of the grant will be invited to submit a formal Catalyst Fund Grant Application, Business Plan, Financials, and Market Research.

Funding Information

• Grants will be awarded in amounts ranging from $100,000 to $750,000, depending on project scope and potential economic impact.
• Funding is contingent on project alignment with the City’s goals.
• Scoring is based on the selection criteria outlined below.
• Funding is competitive, and top-scoring applicants are prioritized.
• Final grant allocations will be determined by the City’s Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC).
• Any one project will not be funded more than 70% of the total cost of the Project.
• Funds are intended to be used as “seed” money and each Project will only be awarded one time in perpetuity.

Eligible Projects 

• They are looking for projects that are the first, the best, and the only!
• Examples include, but not limited to:
  • Events: Festivals, concerts, cultural activities, or large-scale gatherings that attract visitors and benefit the local economy and increase hotel activity. Arts, sports, and cultural heritage events are encouraged.
  • Facilities & Amenities: New or upgraded public spaces, recreational facilities, or other community enhancements that improve the resident and visitor experience.
  • Brick-and-Mortar: Infrastructure improvements, construction, or renovation projects that support long-term community and economic growth.
  • Historical Restoration and Preservation: Projects focused on restoring, preserving and improving Baytown’s historical resources, including structures, artifacts, and landmarks, that support experiences for both residents and visitors.

Eligibility Criteria

• They encourage all eligible Organizations and Entrepreneurs to take advantage of this exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact on the Baytown community.
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Private businesses
  • Developers
  • Individuals and Entrepreneurs
  • Applicants do not have to be a resident of Baytown.

Ineligibility Criteria

• City of Baytown employees are not eligible to apply.

Selection Criteria

• Pre-applications for the Catalyst Fund grant will be scored on the strength of the Project and potential to positively impact the Baytown Community as follows:
  • Economic Impact (25%): Potential to attract investments, create jobs, and generate significant economic activity.
  • Tourism Potential (25%): Ability to draw visitors to Baytown, increase overnight stays, and enhance the city’s profile as a destination.
  • Innovation & Creativity (20%): Uniqueness of the project and its potential to differentiate Baytown from other cities.
  • Community Benefit (20%): Contribution to community engagement, quality of life, and inclusivity.
  • Readiness (10%): Project readiness, realistic timelines.

For more information, visit City of Baytown.