How we help
About the program
The BBB Tools & Trades Grant is designed to jumpstart careers in the skilled trades by offsetting the unique costs of entering the workforce. Unlike traditional college scholarships, this fund specifically reimburses you for the essential gear you need to get to work; including tools, tool belts and work clothing.
As more people look toward rewarding careers in the trades, the Better Business Bureau is committed to supporting both the next generation of workers and our local industry leaders. This grant serves a dual purpose: encouraging talented individuals to pursue a trade career, while simultaneously helping our BBB Accredited Businesses stand out and connect with a dedicated, equipped pool of potential employees.
Applications open September 1, 2026 and will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Is this for you?
Eligibility and how it works
There is no cost to apply. Applicants must meet all the following criteria, with a special exception. Applicants only have to fulfill one of the first two criteria below.
How the process works
Sponsorship
Donate to the BBB Tools & Trades Grant
Support the careers of new tradespeople
- Levels
Sponsorship tiers
Click the link to learn more about becoming a sponsor.
- Form
Donate today
Click the link to support this program.
need more information?
FAQs
As more people look toward rewarding careers in the trades, the Better Business Bureau is committed to supporting both the next generation of workers and our local industry leaders. This grant serves a dual purpose: encouraging talented individuals to pursue a trade career, while simultaneously helping our BBB Accredited Businesses stand out and connect with a dedicated, equipped pool of potential employees.
Applications open September 1st and will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
The BBB Tools & Trades Grant is open to individuals 30 years old or younger, who hold a high school diploma (or equivalent). Individuals must also be employed by, or have accepted an offer of employment from, a BBB Accredited Business in Ashland, Medina, Portage, Richland, Summit or Wayne County.
This includes high school seniors in a Career Technical program who maintain a GPA in good standing and have an accepted job offer or are in their first year of employment with a BBB Accredited Business in our six-county service area.
Eligible trades include, but are not limited to:
Construction Trades: Plumbing, Electrical, Roofing, Concrete, etc.
Welding
Landscaping
Painting
Heating and Cooling (HVAC)
Auto Repair
Auto Body
Pest Control and Tree Removal
Other trades will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Check Your Job: Make sure you are within your first year of employment (or have an active job offer) with a BBB Accredited Business in our area.
Tell Us Your Story: Fill out a short, simple application. Let us know what gear you need to buy, how much it costs and a little bit about why you are excited to head into the trades. By submitting, you are giving us the green light to verify your employment and present the application to the Committee for a determination.
Make sure your list is accurate. Reimbursements are strictly limited to the specific items you write down on your application and that the committee approves.
A group of local business leaders will review the applications and hand out as many grants as the funding permits.
If you're selected, we will notify both you and your employer.
Grants between $50 and $1,000 will be awarded.
No. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval. Apply
