Economic Development Department

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The Hartford Economic Development Department is focused on creating a thriving environment for businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors. Our mission is to stimulate growth and economic expansion for the City of Hartford by supporting local businesses, attracting new investments, and promoting sustainable development. We work collaboratively with community partners to enhance opportunities, strengthen the local economy, and improve the overall quality of life for our residents.

Heart of Hartford: Micro-Grant Program (FY 2026–2027) 

The City of Hartford Micro-Grant Program supports businesses in creating new special events that increase foot traffic, strengthen community engagement, and promote local commerce. 

Grant Award

Selected businesses may receive:

• Up to $1,000 in event grants
  • 1 event: $500
  • 2 events: $1,000
• City-funded promotional support, including:
  • Newspaper advertisement (1/4-page ad paid for by the City)
  • Listing on HartfordKY.org
  • Social media promotion (announcement + reminder posts)

📅 Important Dates

• Applications Open: April 15, 2026
• Application Deadline: May 30, 2026
• Award Notifications: By June 15, 2026
• Eligible Event Dates: July 1, 2026 – June 1, 2027

✅ Who Can Apply

Businesses must:

• Be a brick-and-mortar business within Hartford city limits
• Be properly licensed and in good standing
• Propose a new event (not recurring or previously held)
• Host the event at their business location
• Provide adequate staffing, safety measures, and accessibility

Event Examples

Events should meaningfully engage the community and may include: Workshops, demonstrations, or classes; Themed market days; Arts, music, or cultural events; Food or culinary experiences; Seasonal or holiday-themed events not previously offered; Grand-opening-style celebrations for new product lines

Ineligible events include previously existing or recurring events, private or invite-only gatherings, political or fundraising events, regular sales promotions without a special event component, events that violate city ordinances or pose safety concerns

📝 Application Requirements

Applicants will submit: Basic business information (name, address, point of contact, email); Event description and date; Budget outline for the $500 grant; Agreement to program terms and reporting requirements

After the event, grant recipients must submit a short post-event report within 30 days including event photos and summary of expenses.

Grant Application Link

To submit your application, complete the form: Heart of Hartford Micro-Grant Application – Fill out form

For more information, contact events@hartfordky.org