In the Community
Rooted in Community and Service
Aspire Grant & Development, LLC was born from the unwavering commitment of its founder, Michele Miller Beener, to foster community growth and support. Michele’s journey began in 2003 when she recognized a gap in the grant acquisition process, particularly for federal funding, during her work for a political office. This realization ignited her passion for mastering the art of grant writing, driven by a desire to leverage available resources for the benefit of her community.
At the heart of Aspire’s mission lies a deep-rooted belief in the power of collaboration and giving back. Michele, alongside her father, Michael J. Miller, not only runs a successful antique restoration business (steam railroad and traction engines) but also actively engages in community initiatives, demonstrating that business success and social responsibility can go hand in hand. Their efforts, from work to bring historic treasures back to life to hosting charity events at the farm, embody the spirit of giving that permeates Aspire.
Under Michele’s leadership, Aspire has secured significant funding for impactful projects, such as the $18.69 million BUILD grant for Pittsburgh International Airport and a historic $108.5 USDOT investment for the final stretch of U.S. 12 in Walla Walla, Washington. These projects reflect a strategic alignment with community needs, enhancing regional infrastructure and supporting local businesses, particularly those owned by minorities and women. The firm grew from a Pennsylvania footprint, to a national presence, in just ten years!
The values Michele instills in Aspire resonate throughout the organization. Each staff member shares a commitment to community service, ensuring that the company’s efforts are not just transactional but transformative. This culture of giving back has positioned Aspire as an invaluable asset to the region, dedicated to fostering economic development and uplifting the community. In essence, Aspire Grant & Development is more than a grant writing firm; it is a testament to a team vision that aspires to created engaged, thriving communities. Through her leadership and the shared values of her staff, Aspire continues to be a beacon of hope and support, driving meaningful change and reinforcing the importance of community in every endeavor.
Community News
- Aspire – Corporate Alliance Partnership with the National Grants Management Association
- Aspire – Supporting Musical Education through the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
- Somerset County Woman Grows Grant Writing Firm; Aims to Lift Region
- Lauren (Palmar) Gerami honored as "Foursome Under 40"
- Brooke (Sheeler) Chambers honored as "Somerset County Young Gun"
- Women of Influence: Meet Michele Beener, Aspire Grant & Development
- Chippewa Farms (The nativity is the indescribable gift to humanity)
- Miller Family Heritage – Participating in the New Centerville Farmer’s & Thresherman’s Jubilee
- Soup’s On at Steam Shows!
