Securing funding is one of the most challenging hurdles small business owners and entrepreneurs face. While loans and investors are common sources of capital, there’s another option that can help you grow your business without the burden of debt: grants.
In 2025, numerous grants are available to support small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs across various industries. Grants don’t require repayment, making them an ideal solution to boost your business’s growth. However, the competition is fierce, and applying for grants can be a time-consuming process. The key is to find the right ones that align with your business goals.
In this article, we’ll cover the top 10 grants for small businesses and entrepreneurs in 2025. We’ll break down what each grant offers, its eligibility requirements, and how you can apply.
- Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program
The SBIR Program is a highly competitive federal grant program designed to support small businesses engaged in research and development. The goal is to help businesses commercialize new technologies that can solve societal problems.
Key Features:
- Amount: Varies by phase, typically up to $1.5 million.
- Eligibility: Small businesses (less than 500 employees) involved in technological innovation.
- Purpose: Supports R&D in fields like science, engineering, health, and technology.
Why It’s Great:
This program offers substantial funding for businesses developing innovative products or technologies. It’s ideal for businesses with a strong research and development focus.
How to Apply:
Visit the SBIR.gov website to find open solicitations and detailed application instructions.
- Grants.gov
Grants.gov is a comprehensive database for all federal grants, offering a wide variety of funding opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs in 2024. The platform covers multiple industries and types of grants, including those for research, development, and business expansion.
Key Features:
- Amount: Varies depending on the grant.
- Eligibility: Small businesses, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions.
- Purpose: Provides access to hundreds of federal grants.
Why It’s Great:
Grants.gov is a centralized portal, making it easier for entrepreneurs to find available government grants in one place. It’s suitable for small businesses in diverse sectors.
How to Apply:
Create an account on Grants.gov and browse the available funding opportunities. Each grant has its own application process and requirements.
- The Amber Grant for Women Entrepreneurs
The Amber Grant is a popular grant program designed specifically for women entrepreneurs. It offers a unique opportunity for female small business owners to access funding and other resources to grow their businesses.
Key Features:
- Amount: $10,000 monthly, plus a year-end $25,000 grant, and an additional $100,000 for one lucky business.
- Eligibility: Female entrepreneurs aged 18 or older.
- Purpose: Supports women-owned businesses in any industry.
Why It’s Great:
This grant not only provides funding but also helps with mentorship and networking opportunities, which are valuable for women looking to scale their businesses.
How to Apply:
Visit Amber Grant’s website, create an account, and submit your application. You’ll need to answer questions about your business and goals, and a $15 application fee is required.
- FedEx Small Business Grant Contest
FedEx runs an annual contest to support small businesses with funding and other resources. The FedEx Small Business Grant Contest offers cash prizes, free marketing services, and more to help entrepreneurs grow.
Key Features:
- Amount: $25,000 grand prize, plus additional prizes for runner-ups.
- Eligibility: U.S.-based small businesses with fewer than 100 employees.
- Purpose: Helps small businesses improve their operations, reach, and marketing.
Why It’s Great:
The contest is highly publicized and offers great exposure for your business. The additional marketing services can significantly boost your brand visibility.
How to Apply:
Enter the contest on the FedEx website during the contest period, typically held annually. You’ll need to submit a compelling story about your business and how you would use the grant to grow.
- National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
The NASE Growth Grants are available to members of the National Association for the Self-Employed. These grants are designed to support small businesses in their growth phases by providing funding for specific needs like marketing, equipment, or hiring employees.
Key Features:
- Amount: Up to $4,000.
- Eligibility: NASE members who are small business owners or self-employed individuals.
- Purpose: To fund growth-related expenses such as marketing, advertising, and other operational costs.
Why It’s Great:
The Growth Grants offer flexibility and can be used for a wide range of business expenses. Additionally, the NASE provides resources and networking opportunities for small business owners.
How to Apply:
To apply, become a member of the NASE, then submit an application on their website. You’ll need to outline how the grant will help your business grow.
- Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program
The STTR Program is another federal initiative that supports small businesses engaged in R&D. It specifically focuses on encouraging collaboration between small businesses and research institutions like universities.
Key Features:
- Amount: Up to $1 million.
- Eligibility: Small businesses that partner with a research institution or university.
- Purpose: Supports the commercialization of innovative technologies through collaboration.
Why It’s Great:
The STTR program allows businesses to work with research institutions, providing access to cutting-edge technology and expertise to enhance innovation.
How to Apply:
Visit the STTR.gov website to review open opportunities and application instructions.
- Comcast RISE Grant
The Comcast RISE Grant was created to support small businesses owned by people of color. The grant offers media and marketing services, alongside other resources, to help entrepreneurs reach their target audience more effectively.
Key Features:
- Amount: Marketing services, media placements, and technology upgrades worth up to $10,000.
- Eligibility: Small businesses owned by people of color in the U.S.
- Purpose: Provides marketing and media resources to help small businesses increase visibility and attract more customers.
Why It’s Great:
This grant supports businesses in underserved communities, giving them the tools to compete with larger companies in the digital space.
How to Apply:
Apply through the Comcast RISE website by submitting your business details. The application process typically includes a description of your business, its challenges, and how you plan to use the grant.
- The Cartier Women’s Initiative
The Cartier Women’s Initiative is a global competition that offers grants to women entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas that aim to have a social or environmental impact.
Key Features:
- Amount: $100,000 grand prize, plus coaching and networking opportunities.
- Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs running businesses with a social or environmental focus.
- Purpose: To support women making a positive change through their businesses.
Why It’s Great:
The Cartier Women’s Initiative not only offers financial support but also provides access to a network of experts and fellow entrepreneurs.
How to Apply:
Submit an application through the Cartier Women’s Initiative website. You’ll need to describe your business, its impact, and its potential for growth.
- The Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG)
The Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) provides funding for small businesses located in rural areas. This grant is intended to support business development, job creation, and community growth in rural America.
Key Features:
- Amount: Up to $500,000.
- Eligibility: Small businesses located in rural areas, typically with populations of less than 50,000.
- Purpose: Supports the development and expansion of small businesses in rural communities.
Why It’s Great:
The RBDG is ideal for entrepreneurs in rural areas looking to create jobs and grow their local economies. It provides a significant amount of funding for business development.
How to Apply:
Check with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or local rural development offices for application instructions.
- The Idea Cafe Small Business Grant
The Idea Cafe Small Business Grant is designed for entrepreneurs looking to fund new and creative business ideas. It’s a great option for early-stage startups with innovative concepts.
Key Features:
- Amount: $1,000.
- Eligibility: Any small business or entrepreneur with a creative or innovative business idea.
- Purpose: To help fund startup costs, marketing, or product development.
Why It’s Great:
This grant is simple to apply for and is perfect for early-stage entrepreneurs who need a boost to get their business off the ground.
How to Apply:
Submit your application on the Idea Cafe website, providing a brief description of your business and how you plan to use the grant.
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Final Thoughts
Applying for grants is a great way to secure funding for your small business or startup without taking on debt. However, it’s essential to carefully read the eligibility requirements, prepare a solid application, and be persistent. There are numerous opportunities available, but securing a grant takes time, effort, and a clear understanding of how the funds will help your business grow.
In 2024, the grants listed above offer incredible opportunities for businesses in various industries. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, applying for the right grants can provide the support you need to succeed. Good luck with your applications!
