Starting a business can be tough, but there are plenty of grants out there that can help give you the boost you need. Unlike loans, grants don’t need to be paid back, making them an excellent source of funding for businesses looking to grow or get off the ground. Below is a list of the top USA-based business grants that can help you take your company to the next level!
1. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program 🚀
The SBIR program supports small businesses engaged in research and development (R&D) that has the potential for commercialization. It’s great for tech companies, healthcare innovators, and more.
🔗 https://www.sbir.gov
2. Amber Grant for Women 💼
This grant is designed specifically for women entrepreneurs. Each month, one woman receives $10,000 to grow her business, with an annual $25,000 grant awarded at the end of the year.
🔗 https://ambergrantsforwomen.com
3. The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants 📈
If you’re a NASE member, you can apply for grants of up to $4,000 to support the growth of your small business. These grants can be used for everything from marketing to purchasing new equipment.
🔗 https://www.nase.org/become-a-member/grants-and-scholarships
4. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest 📦
FedEx awards grants to small businesses across the U.S. each year. The top prize is $50,000, with additional money available for digital marketing services to boost your brand.
🔗 https://www.fedex.com/en-us/small-business/grant-contest.html
5. USDA Rural Business Development Grants 🌾
These grants are available to small businesses located in rural areas. Funds can be used for training, technical assistance, and purchasing equipment to support business growth in rural communities.
🔗 https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/rural-business-development-grants
6. 500 Startups Seed Program 🌱
This program offers seed funding to early-stage startups and entrepreneurs. The program includes mentorship, training, and access to a network of investors, making it a great opportunity for tech-focused businesses.
🔗 https://www.500.co
7. Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Grants 🌍
The MBDA provides grants and resources specifically for minority-owned businesses. They aim to promote growth and development through various programs and funding opportunities.
🔗 https://www.mbda.gov
8. The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust Grants 💖
This grant supports innovative healthcare initiatives and organizations. If your business focuses on improving healthcare services or technology, this could be a great fit.
🔗 https://helmsleytrust.org/grants
9. SBA 7(a) Loan Program 💵
While technically a loan, the SBA 7(a) program offers flexible financing options for small businesses. Many businesses leverage this program to secure capital for growth, equipment, or working capital.
🔗 https://www.sba.gov/loan-programs/7a-loan-program
10. Grants for Arts Projects from the National Endowment for the Arts 🎨
If your business is in the arts sector, this grant offers funding for projects that support artistic endeavors. Grants can range from $10,000 to $100,000 depending on the project’s scope.
🔗 https://www.arts.gov/grants
11. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grants 📊
The EDA provides grants to support economic development projects that create jobs and stimulate local economies. Ideal for businesses focusing on community development and innovation.
🔗 https://eda.gov
12. Veteran Entrepreneur Portal (VEP) Grants 🎖️
This initiative offers various resources and funding opportunities for veteran-owned businesses. It aims to support veterans in starting and growing their own businesses.
🔗 https://www.vetbiz.va.gov
13. The Awesome Foundation Grants 💡
The Awesome Foundation awards $1,000 grants to projects that are “awesome.” If you have a creative idea that benefits the community or inspires innovation, this grant is for you.
🔗 https://www.awesomefoundation.org
14. National Science Foundation (NSF) Grants 🧪
The NSF funds a variety of research and development projects. Businesses engaged in scientific research, technology, and innovation can apply for funding to support their initiatives.
🔗 https://www.nsf.gov/funding
15. The Green Fund Grants 🌿
Focused on environmental initiatives, the Green Fund provides grants to businesses working on sustainable projects, green technology, or eco-friendly products.
🔗 https://www.epa.gov
16. The Kauffman Foundation Grants 🎓
The Kauffman Foundation provides grants to support entrepreneurship and education initiatives. They focus on creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive, especially in underserved communities.
🔗 https://www.kauffman.org
17. The Huggies Brand “Mom Inspired” Grants 👶
These grants support innovative business ideas from moms that benefit families and children. If you have a product or service that caters to parents, this could be a great opportunity!
🔗 https://www.huggies.com/mom-inspired
18. The Wells Fargo Community Giving Grants 🌍
Wells Fargo offers grants to organizations and businesses focused on community development, education, and economic empowerment. They aim to make a positive impact in local communities.
🔗 https://www.wellsfargo.com/about/corporate-responsibility/community-giving/
19. The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program 🚀
This program encourages small businesses to collaborate with research institutions. Grants are available for R&D projects with commercial potential, ideal for tech startups.
🔗 https://www.sbir.gov/about/about-sttr
20. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Grants 🌱
The EPA offers grants for projects that promote environmental protection and sustainability. If your business focuses on eco-friendly practices or technologies, explore these opportunities.
🔗 https://www.epa.gov/grants
26. The AARP Community Challenge Grants 🌟
These grants support projects that improve the quality of life in communities for all ages. If your business focuses on community engagement or solutions for older adults, this is a great opportunity.
🔗 https://www.aarp.org
27. The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Grants 📚
The NEH offers grants for projects that promote understanding and appreciation of the humanities. If your business involves education, history, or culture, this funding could be beneficial.
🔗 https://www.neh.gov/grants
28. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Grants 🍏
These grants support research and development projects in the food and drug sectors. If your business involves health, food safety, or pharmaceuticals, explore these funding opportunities.
🔗 https://www.fda.gov/science-research/funding-opportunities
29. The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Grants 🌎
EDF provides funding for innovative projects that address environmental challenges. If your business focuses on sustainability, this grant could support your initiatives.
🔗 https://www.edf.org
30. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) Grants 🏠
These grants are available for businesses and initiatives that promote housing and community development. If you’re in real estate or related fields, consider applying for this funding.
🔗 https://www.nar.realtor
31. The National Institute of Health (NIH) Grants 🧬
NIH offers funding for biomedical and behavioral research projects. If your business focuses on health innovation or research, this grant could provide significant support.
🔗 https://www.nih.gov/grants-funding
32. The Economic Development Administration (EDA) Build to Scale Grant Program 🏗️
This program funds projects that support regional economic development and job creation. It’s aimed at innovative businesses that promote economic resilience.
🔗 https://eda.gov
33. The Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program 💵
While technically a loan, the SBA Microloan Program provides small loans to small businesses and nonprofits to help with working capital and other expenses.
🔗 https://www.sba.gov/microloan
34. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Grants ⚡
The DOE offers grants for projects that advance energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. If your business is involved in the clean energy sector, explore these opportunities.
🔗 https://www.energy.gov
35. The Arts Council Grants 🎭
Many local and state arts councils offer grants to support arts organizations and artists. If your business intersects with the arts, check your local council for funding opportunities.
🔗 https://www.arts.gov
36. The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Grants 📖
IMLS provides grants to support libraries and museums. If your business supports educational initiatives related to these institutions, consider applying.
🔗 https://www.imls.gov
37. The National Science Foundation (NSF) Innovation Corps (I-Corps) Program 💡
This program helps scientists and engineers translate their research into viable businesses. It provides funding and mentorship for startups focused on technology and innovation.
🔗 https://www.nsf.gov/i-corps
38. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Grants 🚦
The DOT provides grants for projects that enhance transportation systems and infrastructure. If your business involves logistics or transportation, check out these funding options.
🔗 https://www.transportation.gov/grants
39. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Grants 🏥
This foundation focuses on health and healthcare improvements. If your business is involved in healthcare initiatives or research, consider applying for their grants.
🔗 https://www.rwjf.org
40. The 3M Small Business Grant Contest 🏆
3M offers a grant contest that awards funding to innovative small businesses. It focuses on projects that solve significant problems and create a positive impact.
🔗 https://www.3m.com
41. The National Park Service (NPS) Grants 🌳
NPS provides grants for projects that promote the conservation of national parks and historic sites. If your business supports conservation or tourism, this could be a valuable opportunity.
🔗 https://www.nps.gov/subjects/grants/index.htm
42. The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grants 🌍
Administered by the SBA, STEP grants help small businesses expand their exports. If you’re looking to grow your business internationally, this program could provide funding for trade missions and marketing.
🔗 https://www.sba.gov/step
43. The Open Meadows Foundation Grants 🌼
This foundation supports projects that benefit women and girls. If your business focuses on gender equality or empowerment, consider applying for funding.
🔗 https://openmeadows.org
44. The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation Grants 🎷
This foundation provides funding for projects in the arts, environment, and medical research. If your business aligns with their mission, explore their grant opportunities.
🔗 https://www.ddcf.org
45. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Grants 🚜
These grants support rural businesses, agriculture, and community development projects. If your business is based in a rural area, you may be eligible for funding.
🔗 https://www.rd.usda.gov
46. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Grants 🎨
The NEA offers grants to support various arts projects and initiatives. If your business operates in the arts sector, this is a valuable funding source.
🔗 https://www.arts.gov/grants
47. The Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund Grants 💰
CDFI provides funding to community development organizations that offer financial services in low-income areas. If your business focuses on financial inclusion, explore this opportunity.
🔗 https://www.cdfifund.gov
48. The Grant for Community Organizations from the Walmart Foundation 🛒
This grant supports community organizations and small businesses that focus on improving community health and well-being. If your business has a community impact focus, consider applying.
🔗 https://walmart.org
49. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Grants 🐟
This foundation provides grants for conservation projects that protect fish and wildlife habitats. If your business supports environmental initiatives, explore these funding opportunities.
🔗 https://www.nfwf.org
