Small Business Grants & Funding: 60+ Opportunities for 2025

After years of guiding startups through the maze of funding, one truth keeps popping up: grant funding isn’t just about the money. Time and again, I’ve seen successful founders realize that nailing a grant isn’t just about meeting criteria—it’s about telling a story that clicks with the grant’s mission. It’s like finding the perfect dance partner; you’ve got to move to the same rhythm. 

While VCs are out there chasing unicorns—rare, dazzling, and a little mythical—grant organizations are searching for phoenixes. They want ventures that don’t just thrive but rise and bring others along for the ride. The founders I’ve seen crush it in the grant game? They get this. They dig deep into what the grant is really about and align their vision accordingly. It’s not just paperwork; it’s creating a narrative that says, “We’re not just growing; we’re uplifting.”

I put this guide together based on my conversations with founders over the years, and plenty of lessons learned the hard way (because let’s face it, trial and error is practically a startup rite of passage). Inside, you’ll find 60+ grant opportunities, along with some hard-hitting pro tips to help you navigate the process and avoid those “facepalm” moments that can derail even the best-laid plans. 

The real story about small business funding

The truth about funding your business is probably not what you think. While everyone dreams about grants and VC money, let me share what actually works based on real data from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. 69% of small business owners bootstrap with their personal savings. They dig into their own pockets first. Credit cards and local bank loans come next. Not exactly the exciting funding story you see on social media, right?

Here’s what Henry Lopez, serial entrepreneur and business coach, said on his podcast that really resonates with me: “My recommendation is the first place to start is to determine how much money do you need, so that means that you have to develop your idea to enough of a level where you have a plan of some sort and a business model, and you calculate…” Couldn’t agree more.

And experienced Redditors back this up. One of them put it perfectly: “There are limited opportunities for grants for for-profit small businesses. These usually include scientific research/innovation, workforce development, and very specific contract awards.”

Now, don’t let that discourage you completely about grants. Yes, there are fewer than most people think. Yes, the competition is fierce. But, while everyone else is randomly applying to every grant they see, you can be strategic about it. If you’ve got your business plan solid, your numbers ready, and you fit what they’re looking for – why not take your shot?

In the next sections, I’ll break down exactly how to prepare for and win grants. Because here’s what I’ve learned: success usually goes to the most prepared, not the most hopeful.

Grant application failures (and how to turn them into wins)

Most founders make the same mistakes over and over during their grant applications. Failure in grant applications isn’t just about rejection. It’s your best teacher for the next round. Here are the main reasons why grant applications fail and how to win.

Your value story is everything 

Back in 2015, I made every rookie fundraising mistake. I sent over 2,000 cold emails to VCs. The result? Five replies saying ‘Please stop spamming my inbox.’ That experience taught me something crucial: chasing money doesn’t work. Creating value does. Grants aren’t your first step. Building something valuable is.

Nobody cares about your amazing technology or brilliant idea if you can’t show real value. Grant reviewers are looking for impact, not features. Don’t tell them you have an “innovative solution.” Show them exactly how you’re solving real problems. Numbers matter here – be specific about your impact.

Financial documentation is non-negotiable 

Some founders treat financial documentation like it’s optional. It’s not. Think of it this way: would you invest in a company that can’t show clear numbers? Neither will grant committees. Get your finances reviewed by professionals. Show exactly where every dollar will go.

Following instructions? It’s like building a product 

You know how product development is all about attention to detail? Same here. Miss one requirement, exceed the word limit, use the wrong format – boom, you’re out. Create a checklist and triple-check everything. This isn’t about creativity; it’s about execution.

Tell a story that matters 

Some “okay” applications win while seemingly “perfect” ones fail – and there’s a reason for that. It’s the story. Raw data isn’t enough. You need to make reviewers care. Your story needs to align with their mission. It’s like product-market fit, but for grants.

Define the problem like your business depends on it 

Because it does. Too many founders jump straight to their solution. What I’ve learned building multiple companies is that if you can’t articulate the problem clearly, your solution doesn’t matter. Back up your problem statement with data. Make it impossible to ignore.

Grant applications are like startups – “overnight success” takes years of preparation. The companies that win grants aren’t just lucky – they’ve been building, refining, and creating value long before they applied.

Types of small business grants

Small business grants are available from a variety of sources, including government agencies, private companies, and non-profit organizations. Understanding the range of options can help you identify the best fit for your business.

Government grants: The rule followers

Government grants often come with a mountain of paperwork and rules that’ll make you feel like you’re back in high school math class. But if you stick with it, the rewards can be worth it. Agencies like the Small Business Administration (SBA) don’t usually hand out money directly to businesses. Instead, they fund nonprofits and educational programs that help small businesses with training, mentorship, and advice. These grants often target specific industries or goals—think green energy, tech innovation, or community development.

Private company grants: The flexible friends

Private companies tend to be a little more relaxed. Take Amazon, for instance—they run an annual grant program for small businesses using their services. Sephora, on the other hand, focuses on minority business leaders in the beauty industry. These grants often have fewer strings attached but may come with a catch, like requiring you to already be a customer or user of their services.

Non-profit grants: The niche players

Non-profits are like that friend who knows exactly what you need and delivers it. Their grants are typically aimed at specific groups—women, minorities, veterans—basically anyone who might face extra hurdles in the business world. While the amounts can be smaller, usually in the $1,000 to $5,000 range, they’re focused on leveling the playing field and increasing diversity in business ownership.

Here’s a quick snapshot of grant types:

Grant Type	Pros	Cons	Funding Max	Eligibility
Government	Stable funding	Strict rules	Varies	Industry-specific
Private Company	Less red tape	May require using services	$25,000+	Often for customers only
Non-Profit	Targets specific groups	Smaller amounts	$1,000–$5,000	Group membership required

 

Pro tip: Know your business superpower

When hunting for grants, think about what makes your business unique. Are you a minority-owned business? Breaking ground in sustainability? Tapping into what sets you apart will help you zero in on grants that match your mission.

So, what’s your next step? Dig into these categories and start applying—one of these could be the break your business needs to level up!

30+ small business grants to help you get started

Here’s a list of 30+ grants that actually exist. We’re talking real opportunities for startups, minority-owned businesses, women entrepreneurs – you name it. Whether you need seed funding or scaling capital, there’s something here that could work for you.

Federal government grants & programs (U.S.)

Federal grants are like the golden tickets of entrepreneurship: they provide much-needed cash without taking a bite out of your equity.

Federal small business innovation research (SBIR) grant

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant is a federal initiative designed to back small businesses working on groundbreaking technologies and products. It’s basically R&D heaven for startups looking to test and develop innovative ideas.

The SBIR program partners with various federal agencies, each with its own set of goals. You pick an agency aligned with your project, apply, and—if approved—you get funding in three phases:

1. Phase I: Test your idea’s feasibility with initial funding.
2. Phase II: Develop and refine your product further.
3. Phase III: Commercialize and bring your innovation to market (though this phase doesn’t typically come with additional funding).

Pros	Cons	Funding maximum	Eligibility
No repayment needed	Competitive process	Varies by agency and phase	Small U.S. businesses
Keeps your equity	Strict rules to follow		Less than 500 employees

Small business technology transfer (STTR) grant

Think of STTR as SBIR’s sibling, but with a twist: you’re required to collaborate with a research institution. This program is all about turning academic research into real-world products and services. If you’ve ever thought, “This groundbreaking university study could change the world!”—this is your chance to make it happen.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Keep ownership of your ideas	Must partner with a research group	Varies by agency	Small businesses in the U.S.

Rural business development grant

For those building businesses in rural areas, the RBDG offers tailored support. With two grant types—Opportunity and Enterprise—it’s a program aimed at boosting small and emerging businesses with fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in gross revenue.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Supports rural businesses	Limited funding available	Varies by project	Small rural businesses
Offers technical assistance	Competitive application process		Less than 50 new workers
Flexible use of funds			Under $1 million revenue

USDA Value-Added Producer Grant

For farmers and ranchers, The USDA Value-Added Producer Grant is all about helping you earn more from your products. Whether it’s turning milk into cheese or fruit into jam, the USDA wants to help you create value.

Funding is split into two categories: up to $75,000 for planning and up to $250,000 for working capital. However, there’s a catch—you’ll need to match the funds with your own investment.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Helps increase income	Requires matching funds	$250,000	Farmers, ranchers, producers
Supports new product creation	Competitive application process
Priority for certain groups	Complex paperwork

Community development block grant (CDBG) program

Run by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), CDBG gives cities and counties funding to improve communities—especially for low- and moderate-income residents. Small businesses can benefit indirectly, as some local governments use CDBG funds to provide grants or loans to help local companies grow.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Improves communities	Complex application process	Varies by location	Cities under 50,000 people
Helps low-income areas	Limited funds available		Counties under 200,000 people
Can [support small businesses](https://10web.io/blog/best-website-builders-for-small-businesses/)	Strict reporting requirements		Focus on low-income areas

Corporate-sponsored grants and competitions

Corporate grants and competitions are like the shark tanks of business funding—an opportunity to secure money, resources, and credibility from industry giants. Let’s break down some of the top programs and what they offer.

FedEx small business grant contest

FedEx’s annual grant contest is a powerhouse for small businesses looking to scale. Think of it as a pitch competition meets a growth accelerator. With prizes totaling millions of dollars, it’s a golden opportunity for businesses with a compelling story and a FedEx account.

Top winners receive up to $50,000 in cash and FedEx Office print services. Past winners span industries from food to tech, proving they value innovation and diversity. The catch? It’s highly competitive—thousands apply each year, but only a handful make the cut.

Pros	Cons	Funding maximum	Eligibility
Free money for your business	High competition	$50,000	Must be a FedEx customer
Print services included	Only once a year		U.S. businesses only

Fast Break for Small Business grant

This program, co-hosted by LegalZoom and Accion Opportunity Fund, is a slam dunk for startups and small businesses. Each year, they award $10,000 cash grants to 150 businesses, plus a $500 LegalZoom product. They also offer free LegalZoom services to 3,000 new entrepreneurs.

The goal? To give businesses the resources they need to succeed—whether that’s legal paperwork, rent, or employee wages.

Pros	Cons	Funding maximum	Eligibility
Cash grant and free services	Limited number of grants	$10,000	Small businesses and new entrepreneurs

Hatch pitch competition

For startups tackling big issues like climate change or economic inequality, Hatch Pitch is a launchpad. This global competition offers expert coaching, investor connections, and a chance to pitch to high-profile judges.

Since its debut in 2012, finalists have collectively raised over $400 million, with several being acquired by larger companies. If your startup is solving meaningful problems, Hatch Pitch could be your ticket to success.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Expert coaching	High competition	Not specified	Innovative startups
Investor connections	Limited winners		Global applicants

Citizens Bank Small Business Community Champion Award

Citizens Bank celebrates businesses that uplift their communities. With 30 grants of $10,000 each, this program recognizes small businesses making a positive impact.

The application focuses on how the grant will support both your business and the community. If you’re a mission-driven entrepreneur, this could be a perfect fit.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
No repayment needed	High competition	$10,000	Small business owners

eBay Foundation Global Give Grant

eBay’s Global Give Grant supports nonprofits that help entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities. In 2024, they awarded $3 million across 30 organizations, including groups like Australia’s Global Sisters, which provides business training for women.

This program focuses on creating inclusive entrepreneurship, offering both financial backing and volunteer support from eBay employees.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Supports inclusive entrepreneurship	Limited to 30 nonprofits	Part of $3 million total	Nonprofits in eBay employee locations

Lowe’s LISC Partnership grant

Lowe’s joined forces with LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation) to fund small businesses—especially those owned by minorities and women. The program started with a focus on urban areas but has since expanded to rural communities.

With $55 million in funding, these emergency grants help businesses cover rent, payroll, and other critical expenses during tough times.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Targets minority and women-owned businesses	High competition for limited funds	Varies by grant round	Small businesses in select locations

Capital One business grant program

Capital One is all about leveling the playing field. Their grant program supports diverse businesses, including $10,000 grants specifically for Black-owned businesses.

Beyond funding, they offer workshops and skill-building sessions through partnerships with groups like The DEC Network. It’s a holistic approach to supporting small businesses.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Financial support for small businesses	Limited number of grants available	Up to $10,000	Varies by program

Visa Foundation’s Equitable Access Initiative

Visa’s $200 million initiative focuses on helping diverse businesses thrive. With $60 million in grants and $140 million in impact investments, it’s a lifeline for women-led and minority-owned companies.

The program also includes Visa’s “She’s Next” initiative, which offers $10,000 grants alongside mentoring and networking opportunities.

Pros	Cons	Funding maximum	Eligibility
Focuses on diverse businesses	Limited availability	Varies by program	Small businesses, women and minority-owned

Women-focused grants

In this section, I have collected some fantastic programs specifically designed to give women entrepreneurs the boost they need.

The Coca-Cola Foundation economic empowerment program

Focused on empowering women entrepreneurs globally, this program provides training, resources, and funding to help women grow their businesses. It has already reached over 6 million women in 100 countries, helping them achieve financial independence.

The program prioritizes women of color and those in the early to mid stages of their careers. Beyond business grants, it also offers professional development and financial literacy training.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Helps millions of women	Limited to certain job types	Varies	Women entrepreneurs

Amber grant for women

Let’s talk about a grant that’s as approachable as it is impactful. Every month, WomensNet awards $10,000 to female entrepreneurs through the Amber Grant. It’s open to women with businesses of all shapes and sizes—from bakers to inventors.

Applying is straightforward: share your story, your plans, and your vision. The focus is on you—the person behind the idea.

Pros	Cons	Funding maximum	Eligibility
Easy application	High competition	$10,000	Women entrepreneurs

InnovateHER challenge

This one’s for innovators creating products or services that improve the lives of women and families. Hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration, the InnovateHER Challenge offers big rewards: $40,000 for first place, $20,000 for second, and $10,000 for third.

The catch? You’ll need to win a local contest to advance to the national level, where you’ll pitch your idea to a panel of judges.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Large cash prizes	Must win local contest first	$40,000	Businesses helping women

Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program

The Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program isn’t just a grant—it’s a full-on development program for women entrepreneurs. Each year, 50 Fellows are selected to participate in workshops, receive coaching, and access a $5,000 grant for education or training.

Beyond the funding, you’ll join a community of like-minded women, share ideas, and get advice from seasoned professionals. And as a cherry on top? A three-day trip to NYC, where you’ll meet experts and fellow entrepreneurs.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Networking and professional development	Competitive application process and time commitment	$5,000 for education	U.S. women entrepreneurs, 21+

NYC Women’s Fund for Media, Music and Theatre

Calling all female creatives in the Big Apple! This grant supports women in film, TV, music, and theater, aiming to close the gender gap in these industries. To date, it’s awarded over $9.3 million to 343 recipients.

The fund helps projects get across the finish line, with the requirement that recipients provide free access to their work for New Yorkers.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Supports women artists	Limited to NYC	Varies by project	Female/female-identifying artists
Covers multiple art forms	Competitive application process		Projects in film, TV, music, theatre

Minority-focused grants/programs

Being a minority entrepreneur often means working twice as hard to access half the resources. But here’s the good news: there are incredible grants and programs designed specifically to support minority-owned businesses.

Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) grant

The MBDA is like the Swiss Army knife for minority-owned businesses. While they don’t hand out checks directly, they’ve set up MBDA Business Centers across the country to help you navigate the tricky terrain of funding, business planning, and growth strategies.

One standout program is the Capital Readiness Program, which helps you learn how to secure funding. And if you’re on the hunt for grants, they’ll point you to Grants.gov, a treasure trove of federal funding opportunities.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Free, expert-level business assistance	No direct cash grants	Varies by program	Minority-owned businesses

First nations development institute grant

If you’re part of a Native American community, this one’s for you. The First Nations Development Institute has been empowering Native-led projects since 1993, doling out over $85 million in grants. Their programs focus on economic growth, food systems, and financial education.

But it’s not just about the money. They also offer training and resources to help you navigate the grant application process. If you’re new to this world, their tools are pure gold.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Focuses on Native communities	Limited to specific program areas	Varies by program	Native-owned projects and organizations

Native American business development institute grant

Before diving into a big project, you need to know if it’s worth the risk. That’s where NABDI grants come in. They fund feasibility studies and business plans for federally recognized tribes and tribal organizations, helping you make informed decisions.

Each year, NABDI supports 20-35 grants that help tribes evaluate new opportunities—whether it’s a tech project, a new business idea, or economic development plans.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Reduces economic risk	Competitive application process	Varies	Federally recognized tribes and tribal organizations

Comcast RISE Investment Fund

If you’re a small business owner of color, the Comcast RISE Investment Fund might be just what you need. This program offers $10,000 cash grants in select cities like Chicago, Miami, and Oakland.

Comcast RISE has already invested $125 million in grants and services to help 14,000 small businesses recover from challenges like the pandemic. If you’re in one of the eligible cities, this is a no-brainer.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Cash grants available	Limited to specific cities	$10,000	Small businesses owned by people of color

Black founder startup grant

This one is a standout. The SoGal Foundation created the Black Founder Startup Grant to support Black women and nonbinary founders, particularly those in the tech space or leveraging technology in their businesses.

What makes this grant shine? There’s no equity involved, meaning you don’t give up ownership of your company.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Financial boost while keeping the ownership	Limited to specific demographics	Varies	Black women and nonbinary founders

Hispanic Heritage Foundation Youth Awards

If you’re a Latino high school senior making waves in your community, this program is your chance to shine. Since 1998, the Hispanic Heritage Foundation has been awarding students who excel in areas like science, business, and education.

These awards aren’t just about the cash (though it helps)—they’re about celebrating young Latino leaders and encouraging them to reach for the stars.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Supports Latino students	Limited to high school seniors	Grant amount varies	Latino high school seniors

Veteran-Focused Funding

Veteran business outreach center (VBOC) program

Think of VBOCs as your all-in-one business toolkit. Run by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), these centers provide training, counseling, and connections to resources specifically tailored to veterans, service members, and military spouses.

They’ll guide you through essential business skills like writing a business plan, managing finances, and navigating loans or government contracts. VBOCs are spread across the country and work with local partners to deliver support where you need it most.

Pros	Cons	Funding maximum	Eligibility
Free services	Limited locations	N/A (provides training, not funding)	Veterans, service members, and military spouses

StreetShares Foundation veteran business grant

If you’ve got a killer business idea and need funding to bring it to life, the StreetShares Foundation might be your best bet. Their Veteran Small Business Award offers grants ranging from $4,000 to $15,000 to help veteran entrepreneurs start or grow their businesses.

Here’s the catch: you’ll need to submit a compelling application and pitch your idea. The foundation is looking for innovative concepts that can make a positive impact.

Pros	Cons	Funding maximum	Eligibility
Focuses on veteran entrepreneurs	Competitive application process	$15,000	Veteran-owned businesses

Industry/subject-specific grants (non-federal)

Sometimes the best grants are the ones tailored to your industry or craft. Here I have included a lowdown on some such grants.

Halstead Grant for jewelry artists

If silver jewelry is your medium, the Halstead Grant is your golden (or silver?) ticket. Designed to support emerging talent, this grant offers $7,500 in cash and $1,000 in supplies to new silver jewelry designers.

But it’s not just about the money. Winners gain recognition in the jewelry industry, along with valuable feedback from the judges to help sharpen their skills and business strategies.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Cash prize	Competitive	$7,500	New silver jewelry designers
Industry recognition	Limited to silver jewelry
Feedback from judges

Fencing Future small business grant

Starting or growing a fencing company? The Fencing Future Small Business Grant offers up to $10,000 to help with equipment, training, or marketing.

The grant prioritizes businesses under two years old and those that embrace eco-friendly materials or innovative techniques. Applications are reviewed twice a year—spring and fall—by a panel of industry experts, so you’ll need a solid business plan and clear financial projections to stand out.

Pros	Cons	Funding Maximum	Eligibility
Flexible use of funds	Limited to fencing industry	$10,000	New businesses (< 2 years)

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences FilmCraft grant

If filmmaking is your passion, the FilmCraft Grant by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is a game-changer. It’s designed to support programs that foster filmmaking skills among underrepresented groups in the industry.

Grants range from $5,000 to $200,000, with the Academy awarding a total of $2.5 million annually. These funds focus on professional development in areas like writing, directing, and production—not on actual film production (unless it’s in a training context).

Pros	Cons	Funding maximum	Eligibility
Supports underrepresented filmmakers	Competitive application process	$200,000	Film education programs and organizations

30+ alternative funding opportunities

Here’s what most founders miss: foundations and nonprofits are sitting on billions in grant money, while alternative lenders offer flexible terms that traditional banks won’t match. These 30+ funding options could be your next breakthrough. And yes, there’s even support still available for COVID recovery. 

Nonprofit/foundation grants (general)

If your business or organization is working toward social, cultural, or community development goals, nonprofit and foundation grants could be the boost you need. They’re also a great fit for startups looking to tie innovation to a bigger mission.

Who they’re perfect for:

• Nonprofits and social enterprises tackling community challenges.
• Startups ready to align with specific mission-driven grant criteria.
• Entrepreneurs looking for early-stage support and validation from prominent foundations.

Program	Funding max	Key feature	Eligibility
NASE Growth Grants	Up to $4,000	Supports NASE member businesses	NASE members (self-employed, small biz)
Gates Foundation Grant	Varies	Global, large-scale impact	Nonprofits, tax-exempt orgs (not for small biz)
Idea Cafe Small Business Grant	$1,000	Easy application, micro-grant	Small business owners
Arch Grants Startup Competition	$75,000	Equity-free, must relocate to St. Louis	Early-stage startups (global applicants)
Jumpstart Economic Development Fund	Varies	Local economic growth support	Small businesses contributing to local economy
Opportunity Finance Network (OFN)	Varies	Supports clean energy & climate projects	Businesses in underserved communities (via CDFIs)
AARP Community Challenge Grant	Up to $50,000	Quick-turn projects for livable communities	Nonprofits, local governments
Operation HOPE Small Business Dev Program	Not specified	Training, mentorship (not direct funding)	Open to all entrepreneurs
James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award	Varies	Recognizes innovative California leaders	California-based leaders
Awesome Foundation $1K Grant	$1,000	Simple, no-strings-attached funding	Open to anyone
Emergent Ventures India	Not specified	Flexible funding for bold ideas	Innovators in India (13+ years old)
Impact Ventures Ecosystem Builders Fund	Varies	Supports organizations aiding entrepreneurs	Groups working with underserved communities
Ford Foundation America’s Cultural Treasures	Varies	Sustains diverse arts/cultural organizations	Arts orgs led by people of color
Operation Jump-Start Grant Program	$10,000 (biz)	Local grants for Frederick County small biz	51%+ operations in Frederick County
	$6,000 (farmers)	Dedicated grants for full-time farmers	Frederick County-based farmers

 

Loans & financial tools (non-grant)

The loans on this list are ideal for small business owners who need funding but can’t check all the boxes for a standard loan. Think flexible terms, bigger funding potential, and a focus on helping underserved communities and export-driven businesses.

Who they’re perfect for:

• Businesses ready to grow but need significant capital to do it.
• Owners looking for funds they can put to versatile uses—working capital, equipment, or even real estate.
• Entrepreneurs from underserved communities or those focused on exporting goods.

Program	Funding max	Key feature	Eligibility
SBA Community Advantage	Up to $350,000	Focus on underserved communities	Must meet SBA size standards
SBA 7(a) Loan	Up to $5 million	Broad uses, SBA-backed	For-profit, meet SBA criteria
Small Business Exporters Assoc.	Varies by program	Export financing & insurance	Small US exporters
Kiva Loans & Matching Grants	Up to $15,000	0% interest, crowdfunded	U.S. small businesses, no credit history needed
Community Reinvestment Fund (CRF)	Varies by partner	Community-focused lending	Businesses in underserved areas

 

Youth, student & university-affiliated opportunities

Starting young has its perks, especially with programs designed to help fresh entrepreneurs and university-affiliated startups. Whether you’re a young founder or transitioning a campus-born idea into the real world, these options offer mentorship, training, and sometimes even a little seed capital to fuel your journey.

Who they’re perfect for:

• Aspiring entrepreneurs under 35 ready to turn a side hustle into the main gig.
• Startups emerging from universities and looking to hit the market.
• Science and tech innovators in emerging economies looking to make their mark.

Program	Funding max	Key feature	Eligibility
Futurpreneur Canada Startup	Up to $60,000	Loan + mentorship for young founders	Young entrepreneurs in Canada
GIST Initiative	Varies	Global network, training, pitches	Young science/tech entrepreneurs in emerging economies
Youth Business International (YBI)	Varies by country	Mentoring, training, network	Entrepreneurs 18-35 in participating countries
Accelerate Blue Fund (U-M)	Not specified	Early-stage funding for U-M IP startups	University of Michigan licensed startups
Google for Startups Accelerator	No direct funding	Mentorship, Google resources	Early-stage startups (tech focus)

 

COVID-19 relief & recovery grants

When COVID-19 hit, it wasn’t just a curveball—it felt like the pitcher threw the whole bat. These relief programs were created to help businesses recover, offering quick funding, partial loan forgiveness, or support tailored to specific industries and regions. Even in 2025, five years later, many businesses are still grappling with the aftershocks of those challenging times.

Who they’re perfect for:

• Businesses that took a revenue hit during the pandemic.
• Creative professionals and nonprofits in particularly hard-hit areas.
• Companies in need of immediate working capital to stay afloat.

Program	Funding max	Key feature	Eligibility
EIDL Emergency Advance (US)	Up to $10,000	Fast relief, no repayment required	Small businesses under 500 employees
Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA)	Up to $60,000	Interest-free, partial forgiveness	Canadian small businesses affected by COVID-19
The Barstool Fund	Varies	Private relief fund for small biz	COVID-impacted US small businesses
CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant	$5,000-$25,000	State grants for impacted businesses	California businesses (income-based)
Colorado Artist Relief Fund	Up to $1,000	Direct support for artists	Colorado artists impacted by COVID-19

Pro Tip

Always check the latest guidelines and deadlines on official program websites. The options above are a starting point—find the perfect fit for your business’s stage, location, and goals.

Your next steps

Now that you have an information base, let me share what I’ve noticed working with hundreds of founders. Most get stuck in the research phase, endlessly reading about grants. But successful founders,they take action. 

Do your homework

Think of grant research like building a product—you need to understand your market first.

Map out every grant program that matches your business. Don’t just look at the money. Look at their requirements, their vision, what they’re trying to achieve. Create a grants calendar—trust me, this simple tool will save you from those midnight panic moments when you realize you missed a deadline.

This is where many founders fall short: prepare your documentation before you need it. Business plan, financials, tax returns—have them ready. Because when a perfect grant opportunity shows up, you won’t have time to scramble for paperwork.

Start local

The best opportunities are often right in your backyard.

Your local SBA office isn’t just another government building—it’s your gateway to funding opportunities. The people there have seen hundreds of businesses grow. They know what works. Use their knowledge.

Economic development agencies? They’re like your local investors. They want you to succeed because your success means local growth. Build relationships with them. Show them you’re serious about creating value in your community.

And please, join those entrepreneur support organizations. Yes, some meetings might feel boring. These connections are gold when you’re building your business.

Build your network

Success leaves clues.

Find founders who’ve already won grants. Buy them coffee. Ask questions. Trust me—most are happy to share their journey. Their insights are worth more than any grant writing guide you’ll find online.

Join founder communities. Not just for grants, but for everything. Because here’s the truth: great opportunities often come through random conversations with other founders who’ve been there.

Go to those grant workshops. Even if you think you know everything. Because sometimes, one small detail you learn can be the difference between winning and losing a grant.

Remember, the best funding strategy is a diverse one. Keep building your business while you work on these applications. Here’s something most guides won’t tell you about grants: winning one isn’t just about the money. When I secured my first major funding, I realized it was validation of years of work. It’s proof that someone believes in your vision. 

That feeling only comes when you’ve built something real. Don’t chase the validation before you’ve created the value.Because at the end of the day, a great business with strong fundamentals will always have funding options.

Conclusion

Back in 2015, when I was sending those 2,000 desperate emails to VCs, I learned something crucial: funding follows value, not the other way around. Look, grants are amazing opportunities – I’ve laid out 60+ of them right here. The best time to prepare for funding is before you need it. Build something valuable, get your documentation ready, and align your story with the grant’s mission. Because when that perfect opportunity comes knocking (and trust me, it will), you want to be ready to meet it. 

FAQ

Does a grant have to be paid back?

No, grants don’t need to be paid back if used according to the grant’s terms and conditions. However, misuse of funds might require repayment or face legal consequences.

What can grant money be used for?

Grant money can typically be used for equipment, hiring employees, marketing, R&D, training programs, expansion projects, and technology upgrades, as specified in the grant agreement.

Can you pay yourself with grant money?

It depends on the grant’s terms. Some grants allow reasonable salary allocations for business owners, while others explicitly prohibit using funds for owner compensation.

Am I eligible for a small business grant?

Eligibility depends on business size, revenue, years in operation, industry sector, location, owner demographics, and specific grant program requirements.

Is a grant a form of income?

Yes, grants are generally considered taxable income by the IRS unless specifically excluded. Business grants usually need to be reported on tax returns.

What documents do I need to apply?

Required documents typically include business plan, financial statements, tax returns, licenses, project proposal, budget breakdown, and proof of eligibility.

What are common reasons grant applications get rejected?

Common rejections occur due to incomplete applications, missing documentation, poor alignment with objectives, weak business plans, missed deadlines, or not meeting eligibility criteria.