Raising capital ranks as one of the top challenges for small business owners in 2025. The good news? Dozens of grants totaling millions of dollars are available right now—and unlike loans, you never have to pay them back. Whether you need funds to hire employees, manage rising costs, or reduce reliance on personal savings, this guide covers 32+ grant opportunities you can apply for today.
How do small business grants work?
Small business grants work by providing free funding that you never have to repay—making them different from loans. Organizations or government agencies award these grants to help businesses grow or achieve specific goals. To qualify, you'll typically submit detailed applications that include your business plan, financial records, and a clear explanation of how you'll use the funds.
You can find small business grants from two primary sources: private funders and government agencies (both at the state and federal levels). Some grants are offered annually, while others have multiple application windows or rolling deadlines.
Types of small business grants available
Small business grants come from various sources, each with different focuses and requirements. Understanding these categories helps you target the right opportunities for your business.
| Grant type | Typical amount | Best for... | Competition level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private company grants | $500–$50,000 | Most small businesses, quick applications | Moderate |
| Federal government grants | $10,000–$5 million | Research, technology, specific industries | High |
| State government grants | $5,000–$100,000 | Local economic development, regional businesses | Moderate to High |
| Emergency relief grants | $2,000–$10,000 | Disaster recovery, unexpected hardship | Low to Moderate |
| Specialized grants | $1,000–$30,000 | Women, veterans, minorities, specific industries | Moderate |
How to apply for a small business grant
When you're ready to apply for small business grants, you can follow these steps to work on your applications and stay organized:
Step 1: Create a list of relevant grants
Based on the grants we've covered and your own research, compile your favorite opportunities in a simple and easy-to-read spreadsheet. At a minimum, you should create columns for the programs, application deadlines, maximum grant amount(s), and key requirements.
Quick qualification checklist
Before diving into applications, use this checklist to identify which grants align with your business profile:
| Qualification factor | What to check |
|---|---|
| Business structure | Do you have a registered LLC, corporation, or nonprofit status? |
| Time in business | How long have you been operating? (Many require 6 months to 2 years) |
| Number of employees | Do you meet size requirements? (Often 500 or fewer employees) |
| Annual revenue | Are you within revenue limits? (Varies widely by program) |
| Location | Are you in an eligible state, county, or service area? |
| Industry | Does your business sector match the grant's focus? |
| Special status | Are you woman-owned, veteran-owned, or minority-owned? |
Step 2: Double-check eligibility requirements
Carefully review each grant's criteria and be realistic about your qualifications. Focus your efforts on grants where you have the strongest chance of success, and give yourself plenty of time to prepare quality applications.
When reviewing requirements, consider:
- Business age and size: Many grants require you to be in business for a specific period or have a certain number of employees
- Location restrictions: Some grants are only available in certain states, counties, or regions
- Industry focus: Certain grants target specific sectors like technology, restaurants, or environmental businesses
- Questions or concerns: Don't hesitate to reach out to the grant program for technical assistance
Step 3: Prepare the required documentation
Most grant applications require similar documentation, though specific requirements vary by program. Gathering these documents ahead of time will streamline your application process and improve your chances of success.
Common documents include:
- Business licenses and registrations: Proof that your business is legally registered and operating
- Financial statements: Recent tax returns, profit and loss statements, and balance sheets
- Certificate of good standing: A document from your state showing your business is in compliance with all requirements
- Business plan: A detailed outline of your business model, goals, and growth strategy
- Use of funds statement: A clear explanation of how you'll use the grant money
- Supporting materials: Photos, testimonials, or other evidence that strengthens your application
15 general small business grants
Below, you'll find various grants offered by private companies and organizations available in 2025:
The Freed Fellowship Grant
Every month, the Freed Fellowship awards $500 to a small business owner, with the potential for more funding. Recipients also receive personalized business feedback and two months of free mentoring through the Freed Studio virtual community.
- Where to apply: The Freed Fellowship
- Award amount: $500 monthly, plus eligibility for a $2,500 end-of-year grant
- Who can apply: Any micro or small business owner in the U.S.
- Application frequency: Monthly rolling applications
Skip Grants
Skip offers numerous grants throughout the year, from instant $1,000 grants to training programs. Be sure to monitor these opportunities regularly, as Skip typically awards 5–10 grants to entrepreneurs and small business owners each month.
- Where to apply: Skip
- Award amount: $1,000 to $10,000 or more
- Who can apply: Varies by program (must create a free Skip account to apply)
- Application frequency: Multiple opportunities monthly
The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grant
The NASE is an organization that represents thousands of entrepreneurs and businesses. Although you must join NASE, eligible members can apply for a Growth Grant quarterly (applications reviewed in January, April, July, and October).
- Where to apply: NASE
- Award amount: Up to $4,000
- Who can apply: NASE members in good standing
- Application frequency: Quarterly (applications reviewed in January, April, July, and October)
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready
Any small business owner can sign up for Verizon’s Digital Ready program. In addition to over $1 million in annual grant funding, Verizon offers dozens of free online courses and networking events.
- Where to apply: Verizon
- Award amount: $10,000 per grant
- Who can apply: Business owners who register for a free account, complete at least two courses, and meet other criteria set by the program
- Application frequency: Multiple rounds annually
Secretsos™ Small Business Grant
This quarterly grant program provides $2,500 in funding to help established businesses overcome challenges and fuel growth. Recipients have complete flexibility in how they use the funds, whether for hiring, operations, or implementing new strategies.
- Where to apply: Secretsos™
- Award amount: $2,500
- Who can apply: U.S. residents over 21 years of age. Businesses must be legally registered and meet one of these criteria: financially distressed (i.e., denied or unable to qualify for bank loans), woman-owned, veteran-owned, minority-owned, or located in an economic development zone.
- Application frequency: Quarterly
Patagonia Corporate Grants Program
This invitation-only environmental grant supports organizations that protect local habitats and frontline communities. You can visit Patagonia's website to learn more about the program or nominate a deserving organization.
- Where to apply: Patagonia
- Award amount: Varies by program (typically between $5,000 and $20,000)
- Who can apply: 501(c)(3) public charities or organizations that use a 501(c)(3) as a fiscal sponsor. All recommended organizations must focus on environmental initiatives and align with one of Patagonia’s four focus areas
- Application frequency: Invitation-only, nomination-based
FedEx® Small Business Grants Program
FedEx® created this grant competition in 2012 and typically awards ten grants per year: one $50,000 grand prize and $20,000 to nine runner-ups. Interested businesses can sign up for notifications about the next application period if it’s not currently open.
- Where to apply: FedEx®
- Award amount: $20,000 to $50,000
- Who can apply: For-profit business owners based in the U.S. who actively ship products using a FedEx business account
- Application frequency: Annual competition
Start.Pivot.Grow. Micro Grant
This quarterly grant program provides $2,500 to help small businesses cover essential expenses and invest in growth opportunities. This grant also has a rolling application deadline, so you can apply year-round.
- Where to apply: Start.Pivot.Grow.
- Award amount: $2,500 and bonus business planning tools
- Who can apply: Anyone who has been in business for at least two years with 1–2 employees (including the owner) and annual revenues of $50,000 or more
- Application frequency: Rolling applications, quarterly awards
Spark Good Local Grants
Walmart’s community grant program funds local nonprofits, government agencies, and educational institutions serving their communities. Applications are typically accepted during three submission periods throughout the year.
- Where to apply: Walmart
- Award amount: $250 to $5,000
- Who can apply: 501(c)(3) public charities, government entities, educational institutions, and faith-based organizations operating within a local Walmart’s service area (must create a Spark Good account and complete a verification process through Deed)
- Application frequency: Three submission periods annually
Lenovo Evolve Small Initiative Grants
Lenovo created the Evolve Small Initiative in 2021 to help small businesses with funding, technology, and mentorship. Winners in 2025 will receive a cash grant and other resources, focusing on business development and AI implementation.
- Where to apply: Lenovo
- Award amount: $25,000 cash grant, an AI technology package valued at $10,000, and access to Goodie Nation and Chantel Cohen mentorship programs
- Who can apply: Businesses located in North America (excluding Quebec) with annual revenues under $7.5 million and 75 or fewer employees
Hustler’s MicroGrant
Thanks to a collaboration between Deja Vu Parker and HerSuiteSpot, this program offers monthly grants to passionate small business owners and entrepreneurs. Applications open every month.
- Where to apply: HerSuiteSpot
- Award amount: $1,000
- Who can apply: Small business owners and entrepreneurs in the U.S.
- Application frequency: Monthly
American Express® Backing Small Businesses
American Express and Main Street America created this grant in 2021 to support economically vulnerable small business owners. Applications typically open in the spring and have submission limits, so be sure to apply early.
- Where to apply: Main Street America
- Award amount: $10,000 (up to $30,000 for Enhancement Grants)
- Who can apply: Independently owned small businesses that employ 20 or fewer full-time employees. Must be located in older or historic commercial districts (brick-and-mortar only)
- Application frequency: Annual program, typically opens in spring
The Amber Grant
Founded by WomensNet in 1998, the Amber Grant program awards thousands of dollars to woman-owned businesses each month. Plus, you can apply for multiple grant opportunities with just one application, including monthly grants, industry-specific grants, and end-of-year awards.
- Where to apply: WomensNet
- Award amount: $10,000 to $25,000
- Who can apply: Women over 18 years of age with a business at least 50% women-owned (startups are also eligible to apply)
- Application frequency: Monthly applications with end-of-year awards
Comcast RISE
Comcast RISE is an annual program that supports small businesses with consulting services, media production, technology upgrades, and monetary grants. Over 14,000 small businesses have benefitted from the program, and the details for 2025 will be announced soon.
- Where to apply: Comcast RISE
- Award amount: $5,000 grants and other business resources
- Who can apply: Small businesses located in certain areas (check the program page for updates)
- Application frequency: Annual program
The Awesome Foundation Grants
This foundation is a global community of chapters supporting awesome projects with $1,000 micro-grants, awarded monthly. Each chapter’s trustees fund these grants and encourage anyone with a great idea to apply.
- Where to apply: The Awesome Foundation
- Award amount: $1,000
- Who can apply: Individuals, groups, or organizations with a project idea
- Application frequency: Monthly by chapter
9 government small business grants
Federal grants offer some of the largest funding amounts for small businesses—often ranging from $10,000 to over $5 million. However, they require a more structured and competitive application process than private grants. The potential payoff can make them worthwhile for eligible applicants.
Federal grants typically require:
- Extensive documentation: Detailed financial records, business plans, and compliance certifications
- Ongoing reporting: Regular updates on how you're using the funds
- Regulatory oversight: Strict rules governing how grant money can be spent
- Longer timelines: More complex review processes that can take months
Here's where you can find opportunities matching your business, followed by some of the most popular government grant programs:
Grants.gov
Grants.gov is the starting point for all government grant opportunities. This database lists thousands of federal, state, and local grants, with new opportunities updated regularly. You can search for grants by industry, location, or specific business needs, but still confirm you’re eligible before applying.
State Trade Expansions Program (STEP)
The Small Business Administration (SBA) created STEP in 2011 to help more businesses expand into international markets. While this is a federal program, you’ll need to apply for funding through your state or territory government.
- Where to apply: Contact the STEP awardee in your state or territory
- Award amount: Varies by state
- Eligibility: Small businesses looking to expand into international markets
Rural Business Development Grants
Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, this program is meant to increase economic development and job creation in rural communities. Grant recipients can use the funds for various purposes, such as training, transportation improvement, land acquisition, and more.
- Where to apply: U.S. Department of Agriculture
- Award amount: Varies by project
- Eligibility: Rural communities and businesses in designated areas
Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program
The STTR is part of America’s Seed Fund—a federal government initiative to help small businesses advance technological innovation. With the STTR program, small businesses must formally partner with a research institution to develop their ideas.
- Where to apply: See participating agencies for details
- Award amount: Phase I: Up to $150,000; Phase II: Up to $1 million
- Eligibility: Small businesses partnered with research institutions
Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR)
The SBIR is also part of America’s Seed Fund and serves a similar purpose, except this program doesn’t require businesses to work with a research institution. Otherwise, the program and application process are largely the same.
- Where to apply: See participating agencies for details
- Award amount: Phase I: Up to $150,000; Phase II: Up to $1 million
- Eligibility: Small businesses focused on technological innovation
Broadband USA Funding Programs
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) offers various funding opportunities through Broadband USA. While exact broadband programs vary by location, they generally support infrastructure adoption in unserved and underserved areas.
- Where to apply: Broadband USA (download the latest funding guide to find programs for your community)
- Award amount: Varies by program and location
- Eligibility: Organizations providing broadband services in underserved areas
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Grants
Small businesses involved in medical research and development can apply for various grants through the NIH. Aside from grants, the NIH also offers contract assistance and loan programs for eligible businesses.
- Where to apply: National Institutes of Health
- Award amount: Varies by program
- Eligibility: Small businesses engaged in biomedical research and development
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Grants
The EPA offers several grant programs to protect human health and the environment. However, some of these grants are only available in certain regions, so you should review the programs carefully or use Grants.gov to filter EPA grants for your specific area.
- Where to apply: Environmental Protection Agency
- Award amount: Varies by program
- Eligibility: Organizations focused on environmental protection (varies by program)
Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grants
You might look into EDA grants if your business helps the community or develops projects to strengthen local economies. These programs typically fund initiatives to create new jobs, recover from disasters, or improve physical infrastructure, among others that boost economic development.
- Where to apply: Economic Development Administration
- Award amount: Varies by program (typically $100,000 to several million)
- Eligibility: Organizations supporting economic development and job creation
4 small business grants for startups
If you’re in the early stages of launching a new company, the following grants might offer some funding to help you get up and running:
500 Global Flagship Accelerator
This four-month accelerator program in Palo Alto provides early-stage startups with seed funding, mentorship, and access to a global network of investors and founders. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
- Where to apply: 500 Global
- Award amount: $150,000 investment for a 6% equity stake
- Who can apply: Early-stage startup founders
- Application frequency: Rolling basis
Visa Everywhere Initiative
This annual program is for technology startups that leverage Visa’s products and solve payment or commerce challenges. Besides a substantial monetary prize, winners receive recognition and exposure from one of the most recognizable financial brands in the world.
- Where to apply: Visa
- Award amount: Varies (typically $10,000 to $100,000)
- Who can apply: Technology startups with a product or service that integrates with Visa’s network
- Application frequency: Annual
Build to Scale (B2S) Program
This is another program administered by the EDA, focusing on organizations that build and scale technology-driven businesses. The main purpose of B2S is to help entrepreneurs develop ideas into working technologies that support regional economic growth.
- Where to apply: U.S. Economic Development Administration
- Award amount: $100,000 to $5 million per project
- Who can apply: Nonprofit organizations, higher education institutions, public-private partnerships, research parks, and other entities focused on technology and entrepreneurship
- Application frequency: Check website for current opportunities
Challenge.gov
Challenge.gov is a federal platform that hosts prize competitions across various government agencies. You can typically find challenges to solve in sectors like medical research, technology, energy, and other critical areas that affect the public.
- Where to apply: Challenge.gov
- Award amount: Varies by competition but often exceeds $100,000
- Who can apply: Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria for the specific challenge
- Application frequency: Ongoing, with new challenges posted regularly
4 small business grants for emergencies
If your business experienced losses due to hardship or an emergency, you might look into the following small business grants:
Etsy Emergency Relief Fund
This grant is for Etsy sellers who have been affected by a federally declared disaster. You don’t have to complete any steps to pre-register for this fund, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
- Where to apply: Etsy Advocacy
- Award amount: Up to $2,000
- Who can apply: Active Etsy sellers for at least one year with an account in good standing
- Application frequency: Rolling applications during disaster periods
Small Business Readiness for Resiliency (R4R)
The R4R program helps small businesses prepare for and recover from natural disasters. After completing a preparedness checklist and registering your business, you become eligible for funding in the event FEMA makes an Individual Assistance declaration in your county.
- Where to apply: U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
- Award amount: $5,000
- Who can apply: Small businesses with 500 or fewer employees
- Application frequency: After qualifying disaster declarations
Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund
Created by DoorDash and Hello Alice, this program helps restaurants impacted by natural disasters, severe weather events, and significant infrastructure failures. Applications are typically accepted during four rounds throughout the year.
- Where to apply: Hello Alice
- Award amount: $10,000
- Who can apply: Brick-and-mortar restaurants located in the U.S. or its territories that meet these criteria: no more than three locations, less than $3 million in revenue per location, fewer than 50 employees per location, and open for at least six months
- Application frequency: Four rounds annually
Rauschenberg Emergency Grants
Offered by the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA), these grants are for artists facing unexpected medical, dental, or mental health emergencies. Artists must also be in financial need and meet certain income requirements to qualify.
- Where to apply: New York Foundation for the Arts
- Award amount: $3,000 to $5,000
- Eligibility: Independent artists in the U.S. who create original works in eligible disciplines
- Application frequency: Rolling applications
Specialized grant programs for small businesses
Many organizations offer targeted grant programs to help business owners from specific backgrounds and communities. Take a look at LegalZoom’s grant guides to learn more:
State government small business grants
State-level grants often provide more accessible funding than federal programs, with less competition and more focus on local economic growth. Aside from researching programs in your state, you can review LegalZoom’s grant guides for the following states:
What to expect: Grant application timeline
Understanding the typical timeline helps you plan when to apply and when you might receive funding. While every grant operates differently, here's what most applicants experience:
| Phase | Timeframe | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Research and preparation | 1–4 weeks | Identify suitable grants and gather required documentation |
| Application submission | 1–3 weeks | Complete and submit applications before deadlines |
| Review period | 4–12 weeks | Grant committee reviews applications and makes selections |
| Notification | 1–2 weeks | Winners are contacted and asked to provide additional information |
| Funding disbursement | 2–6 weeks | Funds are transferred after final verification |
Total timeline: Expect 2–6 months from initial research to receiving funds for most grants. Some fast-track grants may take as little as 2–4 weeks, while federal grants can take 6–12 months or longer.
Other resources for small businesses
Besides grants, you might look into these resources to secure funding or get financial help for your small business:
Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)
SBDCs are local offices backed by the SBA that provide free guidance to business owners. Your local SBDC offers valuable support throughout the grant application process.
SBDC advisors can help you with:
- Grant identification: Finding opportunities that match your business profile
- Application review: Providing feedback on your grant applications before submission
- Business planning: Strengthening your business plan and financial projections
- Compliance guidance: Understanding reporting requirements if you win a grant
State business incentives
The State Business Incentives Database can help you find financial opportunities that are only available in your region. In addition to state grants, you can typically find tax credits, workforce training programs, energy efficiency rebates, and similar incentives in your area.
SBA-backed loans
While they must be repaid, SBA-backed loans typically offer competitive rates and more flexible terms than traditional small business financing. Options include 7(a) loans, 504 loans, and microloans, depending on your needs and what you intend to use the funds for.
FAQs
Is it hard to get a small business grant?
Most grant programs are highly competitive, with many qualified businesses competing for limited funds. Government small business grants, in particular, tend to be one of the most competitive types.
Do you have to pay a small business grant back?
You don’t have to repay small business grants back, but many come with specific requirements for how you can use the funds. Recipients who misuse the grant or don’t meet the program’s requirements may need to return the money, especially if funded by a government agency.
Is a small business grant taxable?
Yes, small business grants usually count as taxable income. However, this isn’t always the case for certain types of government grants, nonprofits, and organizations with special tax considerations, so it’s best to consult a tax professional or business attorney.
What can a small business grant be used for?
Each grant program sets its own rules for fund usage. Some grants target specific needs like equipment purchases or hiring, while others allow more general business expenses.
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