DIVERSITY IN DESIGN SMALL BUSINESS GRANT
- Award: $5,000
- Application Period: February 16 – March 31, 2026
- Winner Announced: Early April 2026
The ASID Texas Chapter Diversity in Design Small Business Grant provides financial assistance to ASID Texas Chapter members who own for-profit businesses and are experiencing financial need or seeking to grow their business.
This grant supports individuals who are people of color, have disabilities, are part of the Aging Population (65+), and/or identify as Minority or LGBTQIA+. It aligns with ASID National's commitment to advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the interior design profession, ensuring that “everyone feels welcome and respected, regardless of their age, background, abilities, stage in career, or educational achievements.”
By submitting the application, applicants certify that all the information provided is accurate and true.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be a current ASID Texas Chapter member
- Own a for-profit small business
- Meet one or more DEI identity criteria outlined above
This grant is not open to current members of the ASID Texas Chapter Board of Directors.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following:
- Explanation of how the grant will help improve their business. (500 word maximum)
- Explanation of how the funds will be used. (500 word maximum)
- Profit & Loss Statements.
- Primary Applicant’s Biographical Statement.
Eligible Uses of Funds
Grant funds may be used for:
- Hiring new employees
- Operating expenses
- Upgrading facilities
- Business equipment
- Purchasing inventory
- Product Development
- Payroll
- Advertising & Marketing
Selection Process
Applications must be submitted through THIS ONLINE FORM. All completed applications will be reviewed by the ASID Texas Chapter Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force.
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Eligibility and completeness
- Demonstrated financial need
- Intended use and impact of grant funds
The committee will vote to select the grant recipient. In the event of a tie, the ASID Texas Chapter Board of Directors will make the final selection. The selected applicant will be notified via the email address provided and may be asked to submit additional documentation to ensure compliance with ASID National Bylaws, Policies and Chapter Procedures.
Requirements of the Grant Recipient
- Maintain records documenting the use of funds
- Submit a testimonial and headshot within one year describing how the grant impacted their business
- Participate in the ASID Texas Chapter DEI Task Force
- Participate in the DEI Programming taking place at the 2026 ASID National Conference GATHER Catalyst (September 16-18 in Dallas)
- Attend ASID Texas Chapter events to promote DEI Awareness
About
Visit the ASID Texas Chapter Diversity, Equity & Inclusion webpage to learn more about the Grant's inception under the leadership of 2023-2024 Chapter President Veronica Sanders, ASID, as well as to find testimonials from past Grant Recipients.