Science & Technology
7 Grants For Small Businesses You Can Apply For Today
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Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, July 30th 2025 at 4:41 GMT by Forbes🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Grants for small businesses remains one of the biggest financial challenges for entrepreneurs. Here are some small business grants you can apply today.
7 Grants for Small Businesses You Can Apply For Today
In the competitive landscape of entrepreneurship, small businesses often face significant financial hurdles, from startup costs to expansion needs. Unlike loans, grants provide non-repayable funding, making them an attractive option for owners looking to grow without accruing debt. As economic pressures continue to mount, with inflation and supply chain disruptions affecting operations, accessing free capital can be a game-changer. This year, numerous organizations, government agencies, and private entities are offering grants tailored to various industries, demographics, and business stages. Whether you're a tech startup, a woman-owned enterprise, or a rural operation, there's likely a grant that fits your needs. In this guide, we'll explore seven standout grants that small businesses can apply for right now, detailing eligibility criteria, award amounts, application processes, and tips for success. These opportunities are time-sensitive, so acting quickly is key to securing funding that could propel your business forward.
1. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest
The FedEx Small Business Grant Contest has become a cornerstone for entrepreneurs seeking to scale their operations. Launched annually, this program awards grants to innovative small businesses that demonstrate creativity, community impact, and growth potential. In 2025, FedEx is offering a total prize pool of $250,000, distributed among 10 winners. The grand prize winner receives $50,000, while others get between $10,000 and $30,000, plus additional perks like FedEx Office print services and mentorship sessions.
Eligibility is broad but targeted: Applicants must own a for-profit small business with fewer than 99 employees, have been in operation for at least six months, and ship products using FedEx services. The contest emphasizes businesses that contribute to economic development, sustainability, or social good. For instance, past winners include eco-friendly packaging companies and local artisans expanding e-commerce.
To apply, visit the FedEx website and submit a short video pitch, business plan summary, and photos showcasing your operations. The application window typically opens in early spring and closes by mid-summer, with winners announced in the fall. A tip for success: Focus on storytelling—highlight how your business solves a real-world problem and how the grant will amplify your impact. With thousands of entries each year, standing out requires a compelling narrative that aligns with FedEx's values of innovation and reliability.
2. Amber Grant for Women Entrepreneurs
Empowering female founders is the core mission of the Amber Grant, administered by WomensNet. Named after a young entrepreneur who passed away before realizing her dreams, this grant provides monthly awards to women-owned businesses. In 2025, the program offers $10,000 monthly grants, with an annual $25,000 grand prize for one standout recipient. Additional categories include startup grants for new ventures and marketing-focused awards.
Eligibility requires that the business be at least 51% women-owned and operated in the U.S. or Canada. It's open to a wide range of industries, from tech to retail, with a preference for those demonstrating passion and perseverance. Success stories abound, such as a bakery owner who used the funds to purchase equipment and expand her product line, leading to a 200% revenue increase.
Applications are straightforward: Submit a brief online form detailing your business story, challenges faced, and how the grant would be used. There's a $15 application fee, but it's nominal compared to the potential reward. Deadlines are monthly, making it accessible for ongoing applications. Pro tip: Personalize your submission—share authentic struggles and triumphs to resonate with the judges, who value resilience in women entrepreneurs.
3. SBA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program
For tech-savvy small businesses, the Small Business Administration's (SBA) SBIR program is a goldmine. This federal initiative funds research and development (R&D) projects that have commercialization potential. In 2025, participating agencies like the Department of Defense and NASA allocate billions, with individual grants ranging from $50,000 in Phase I (feasibility studies) to $1 million or more in Phase II (prototype development).
To qualify, your business must be U.S.-based, for-profit, and have fewer than 500 employees. The focus is on innovative technologies addressing national priorities, such as clean energy, healthcare advancements, or cybersecurity. A notable example is a startup that developed AI-driven medical diagnostics, securing SBIR funds to bring their product to market and attract venture capital.
Applications involve submitting proposals through the SBA's portal, with multiple solicitation periods throughout the year. The process is rigorous, requiring detailed technical plans and budgets. Success often hinges on aligning your project with agency-specific topics—research these thoroughly. Networking with past recipients via SBA webinars can provide invaluable insights.
4. Walmart Spark Good Local Grants
Retail giant Walmart supports community-driven small businesses through its Spark Good program, offering grants to organizations that enhance local economies. In 2025, grants range from $250 to $5,000, aimed at nonprofits and small businesses involved in hunger relief, workforce development, or sustainability initiatives.
Eligibility prioritizes businesses operating in Walmart's service areas, with a focus on those creating positive community impact. For-profit entities must partner with a nonprofit or demonstrate charitable activities. A past grantee, a local farm-to-table cooperative, used the funds to install solar panels, reducing costs and promoting green practices.
Apply via the Walmart Foundation's online platform, submitting a proposal outlining your project's goals and expected outcomes. Rolling deadlines allow for year-round submissions. Tip: Emphasize measurable community benefits, as Walmart favors initiatives with tangible results, like job creation or environmental conservation.
5. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
The NASE offers Growth Grants to help micro-businesses and self-employed individuals expand. Awards of up to $4,000 are given quarterly, targeting needs like marketing, equipment purchases, or hiring.
Members of NASE (with a $120 annual fee) are eligible, and businesses must show growth potential. A solopreneur graphic designer, for example, used the grant to upgrade software, doubling her client base.
Applications require a detailed business plan and are submitted online. Focus on specific, achievable goals to strengthen your case.
6. Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG) from USDA
The USDA's RBDG supports rural small businesses with grants up to $500,000 for training, technical assistance, or infrastructure. Eligible entities include towns, nonprofits, and small enterprises in areas with populations under 50,000.
A rural craft brewery expanded distribution using RBDG funds, boosting local employment.
Apply through your state's USDA office, with varying deadlines. Highlight economic development impacts for rural communities.
7. Visa Everywhere Initiative
Visa's program awards up to $100,000 to fintech startups solving payment challenges. Global in scope but U.S.-focused, it seeks innovative solutions in commerce.
Eligibility requires a working prototype. Winners gain mentorship and exposure.
Submit pitches online during open calls. Innovate boldly to stand out.
In conclusion, these grants represent diverse opportunities for small businesses to secure funding without repayment burdens. To maximize chances, tailor applications to each program's focus, gather strong supporting documents, and apply early. With persistence, these resources can transform your business trajectory, fostering innovation and sustainability in an ever-evolving market. (Word count: 1,048)
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