Starting and growing a small business requires capital, and while loans and investments are common funding options, grants and financial assistance programs provide free money to eligible businesses. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, making them a highly sought-after resource for entrepreneurs.
If you’re searching for grants and financial assistance for your small business, this guide will walk you through the best resources to find funding opportunities.
1. Grants.gov – The Federal Grant Hub
Best for: Small businesses looking for federal grants
Grants.gov is the largest federal grants database, offering funding opportunities from various government agencies, including the Small Business Administration (SBA), Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Department of Commerce.
How to Apply:
✅ Create an account on Grants.gov
✅ Search for small business grants using filters like industry, agency, and eligibility
✅ Read grant requirements carefully before applying
📌 Pro Tip: Government grants are competitive, so ensure your business aligns with the grant’s purpose and eligibility requirements before applying.
2. Small Business Administration (SBA) Grants
Best for: Minority-owned, women-owned, and innovative small businesses
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers limited grant programs focused on supporting entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses.
Top SBA Grant Programs:
✅ Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) & Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) – Supports high-tech and research-focused startups
✅ SBA 7(j) Management and Technical Assistance Program – Provides funding for small businesses in economically disadvantaged areas
✅ State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) – Helps small businesses expand into international markets
📌 Pro Tip: Visit SBA.gov and search for grant opportunities tailored to your industry and business size.
3. Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Grants
Best for: Minority-owned businesses seeking funding and business support
The MBDA, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, provides financial assistance, business consulting, and grants to support minority entrepreneurs.
How to Access MBDA Grants:
✅ Visit MBDA.gov to check available grant programs
✅ Look for local MBDA Business Centers for one-on-one grant guidance
✅ Apply for funding when MBDA grant competitions open
📌 Pro Tip: MBDA focuses on African American, Hispanic, Asian American, and Native American entrepreneurs.
4. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
Best for: Self-employed individuals and small business owners
NASE offers grants of up to $4,000 to help small businesses with:
✅ Equipment purchases
✅ Marketing and advertising
✅ Hiring employees
How to Apply:
✅ Become a NASE member ($120/year)
✅ Submit a grant application outlining your business needs and goals
✅ Wait for the selection committee’s approval
📌 Pro Tip: Visit NASE.org to check eligibility and apply for grants.
5. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest
Best for: Small businesses with innovative ideas and strong business models
The FedEx Small Business Grant Contest awards up to $50,000 to small businesses annually.
How to Apply:
✅ Submit an application with details about your business
✅ Provide a compelling business story
✅ Include photos or a video to enhance your application
📌 Pro Tip: Highlight how your business will make an impact with FedEx funding.
6. Amber Grant for Women Entrepreneurs
Best for: Female business owners looking for startup funding
The Amber Grant provides $10,000 monthly grants to women entrepreneurs, with an additional $25,000 awarded annually to one recipient.
How to Apply:
✅ Visit AmberGrantsForWomen.com
✅ Pay a small application fee ($15)
✅ Submit a detailed business description and funding needs
📌 Pro Tip: Focus on how your business helps the community to increase your chances of winning.
7. Local and State Business Grants
Best for: Small businesses looking for localized financial assistance
Many states and cities offer business grants and funding programs to support entrepreneurs.
How to Find Local Grants:
✅ Visit your state’s economic development website
✅ Check local small business development centers (SBDCs)
✅ Look for grants from chambers of commerce and nonprofit organizations
📌 Pro Tip: Search for “[your state] small business grants” to find regional opportunities.
8. ThinkGlobal321Funding.com – Working Capital for Small Businesses
Best for: Small businesses needing fast funding without complicated applications
ThinkGlobal321Funding.com offers alternative financing options for small businesses, including:
✅ Working capital loans
✅ Business lines of credit
✅ Equipment financing
Why Choose ThinkGlobal321Funding?
✔️ Quick approvals (often within 24-48 hours)
✔️ Flexible funding amounts for various business needs
✔️ No strict credit score requirements
📌 Pro Tip: If you don’t qualify for grants, ThinkGlobal321Funding provides fast financing solutions tailored to small businesses.
9. Corporate and Private Grants
Best for: Small businesses seeking funding from large corporations
Many big companies provide grants for small businesses, such as:
✅ Visa Everywhere Initiative – Provides funding for innovative small businesses
✅ Nav’s Small Business Grant – Awards grants up to $10,000 to businesses needing financial assistance
✅ Comcast RISE – Provides grants to minority-owned small businesses
📌 Pro Tip: Search for “[corporate small business grants]” to find private funding opportunities.
10. Crowdfunding and Peer-to-Peer Lending
Best for: Businesses looking for funding from the community
Crowdfunding platforms allow businesses to raise money from individuals and investors.
Top Crowdfunding Platforms:
✅ Kickstarter – Best for product-based businesses
✅ GoFundMe – Best for community-driven businesses
✅ Kiva – Offers 0% interest loans for small businesses
📌 Pro Tip: Offer rewards or perks to attract more contributors.
Final Thoughts: Secure the Best Funding for Your Small Business
Finding small business grants and financial assistance can take time, but with the right resources, your business can secure funding without taking on debt.
Top Takeaways:
✅ Apply for government grants (Grants.gov & SBA)
✅ Seek minority and women-owned business grants (MBDA & Amber Grant)
✅ Explore private grants from corporations (FedEx & Visa)
✅ Consider alternative funding options like ThinkGlobal321Funding.com
📌 Take Action Now! Visit ThinkGlobal321Funding.com for fast business financing or explore grants that fit your business needs! 🚀