Contacts:
Lindsey Jones, Executive Director — lindseyjones@ivcdo.org | (541) 592-4440
Autumn DeLorenzo, Business & Economic Development Manager – business@ivcdo.org | (541) 592-4440
Mercy Bordeaux, Communications & Outreach Coordinator — outreach@ivcdo.org | (541) 592-4440
PIER Microenterprise Grants Reopen | Apply Now for $15,000 in Fire Recovery Funds
Cave Junction, Oregon — January 23, 2026 – The Illinois Valley Community Development Organization (IVCanDO) has reopened the PIER Microenterprise Grant Program, offering an additional $100,000 in funding to support small businesses in Jackson County impacted by the 2020 Labor Day Fires (Almeda or South Obenchain).
This second round of funding opens Friday, January 23, and will accept applications through March 31, 2026.
The program provides grants of up to $15,000 for qualifying businesses with five or fewer employees, helping them recover from wildfire-related economic loss. Funds can be used for working capital, payroll, inventory, rent, utilities, and other essential business needs.
What’s New in the Second Launch
- $100,000 in additional grant funds available
- Application window: January 23 – March 31, 2026
- Streamlined review and award distribution process
- Continued application support from Southern Oregon University technical advisors
Who Should Apply
You may be eligible if your business:
- Has five or fewer employees
- Is located in Jackson County
- Was directly or indirectly impacted by the 2020 Labor Day Fires
- Still has unmet recovery needs
- Is owned by or serves low- to moderate-income individuals
- Responds to urgent community needs created by the fires
Free Support Is Available
Applicants can receive free assistance with preparing materials and confirming eligibility. Support is provided by the Southern Oregon University PIER Project.
📧 Email: piersupport@sou.edu
📞 Phone: 541-552-8209
Apply Now
More details and the application are available at:
🔗 ivcdo.org/pier_grants
About the Program
The PIER Microenterprise Grant Program is part of the broader Planning, Infrastructure, and Economic Revitalization (PIER) initiative administered by Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), with federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
About IVCanDO
The Illinois Valley Community Development Organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to collaborative programs and inclusive partnerships that improve lives across rural southwest Oregon. With a strategic focus on People, Place, and Prosperity, IVCanDO supports economic recovery, small business growth, and long-term community resilience