Best Grants for Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs in 2025

by

Starting and running a small business is no easy feat. Whether you\’re launching a new startup or seeking ways to grow an existing venture, securing the necessary funding can be one of the biggest challenges. While traditional loans are often an option, grants offer an attractive alternative. Grants are funds provided by governments, corporations, and private organizations that do not need to be repaid. For small business owners and entrepreneurs, grants can provide crucial financial support without the burden of debt.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best grants for small business owners and entrepreneurs in 2025, highlighting key opportunities and the eligibility requirements to help you access free funding for your business growth.

1. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program

The SBIR Program is a highly competitive grant program from the U.S. government designed to support innovative small businesses engaged in research and development. The program encourages small businesses to engage in federal research and development with the potential for commercialization.

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: Varies by phase, ranging from $150,000 to over $1 million.
  • Eligibility: Small businesses in the U.S. with fewer than 500 employees that engage in research and development, particularly in areas like technology, energy, and manufacturing.
  • Application Process: The process involves submitting proposals in response to specific research topics outlined by government agencies.

Website: SBIR.gov

2. Amber Grant for Women Entrepreneurs

The Amber Grant is a unique grant aimed at helping women entrepreneurs succeed. It was founded in honor of a young woman who passed away before realizing her business dreams. The grant is awarded monthly, and each monthly winner is then entered to win a year-end $25,000 grand prize.

\"\"

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: $10,000 per month, with a year-end grand prize of $25,000.
  • Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs of all industries and backgrounds are eligible to apply.
  • Application Process: Entrepreneurs submit an application online, including a short business description. A nominal application fee is required.

Website: Amber Grant

3. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants

The NASE Growth Grants offer funding to help small business owners expand or develop their companies. NASE provides grants to assist with anything from marketing to hiring employees and upgrading equipment.

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: Up to $4,000.
  • Eligibility: Small business owners and self-employed individuals who are members of NASE. You must be a U.S.-based small business.
  • Application Process: Applicants must submit a detailed proposal that explains how the grant will help their business grow.

Website: NASE Growth Grants

4. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

The FedEx Small Business Grant Contest is an annual competition that rewards small businesses for their growth and potential. The contest offers a significant cash prize to the top winners and aims to provide essential funding and support to small businesses looking to scale.

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: First-place winner receives $50,000, plus $7,500 in FedEx printing and business services. Additional prizes are also available.
  • Eligibility: Small businesses must have been in operation for at least six months and employ fewer than 99 employees.
  • Application Process: Applicants must submit an online application detailing their business goals, challenges, and how the grant will help.

Website: FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

5. Hassle-Free Grant for Small Business Owners

The Hassle-Free Grant is designed to assist small business owners by offering funds to support business growth and overcome financial obstacles. Unlike other grants, the application process is simplified and focuses on business needs rather than extensive documentation.

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: Varies, typically up to $5,000.
  • Eligibility: U.S.-based small businesses across various industries.
  • Application Process: A streamlined application process with minimal documentation and a focus on business needs.

Website: Hassle-Free Grant

6. The 1-800-Foundation Grant for Entrepreneurs

The 1-800-Foundation Grant is available to entrepreneurs looking for funding to grow their businesses. This grant is especially useful for businesses that need funds to support marketing campaigns, product development, or other business operations.

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: Typically between $1,000 and $10,000.
  • Eligibility: Entrepreneurs and small business owners in the U.S. are eligible to apply. The grant is open to businesses of all types.
  • Application Process: Applications are available online, requiring business plans and financial statements.

Website: 1-800-Foundation

7. The SBA 7(a) Loan Program (Specialized Grants)

While the SBA 7(a) Loan Program is a loan, there are specific grant opportunities embedded in the SBA’s offerings that support various small business needs. The SBA offers specialized grant funding, particularly for businesses in underserved areas or those working on specific economic initiatives.

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: Grants range in size based on program and purpose.
  • Eligibility: Small businesses located in the U.S. that meet specific criteria such as industry type, business size, and location.
  • Application Process: Applicants must complete the SBA\’s detailed grant application processes and meet specific eligibility guidelines.

Website: SBA Grant Programs

8. Comcast RISE Grant

The Comcast RISE program provides grants, media placements, and marketing services to small businesses owned by people of color. This program aims to support business owners who have been disproportionately impacted by economic challenges, such as those resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: In-kind services such as advertising, consulting, media placements, and creative production.
  • Eligibility: Minority-owned small businesses, particularly those owned by people of color.
  • Application Process: Businesses must submit an online application demonstrating how they would benefit from the RISE program’s services.

Website: Comcast RISE

9. Local and State Government Grants

Many states and local municipalities offer grants specifically for small business owners, particularly those operating in underserved areas or industries that are key to regional development. These grants may be geared toward helping small businesses overcome specific barriers, such as creating jobs, promoting innovation, or addressing community needs.

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: Varies by state or local program.
  • Eligibility: Varies by location, but typically requires the business to be based in a specific area or contribute to local economic development.
  • Application Process: Applications are usually submitted through state or local government websites.

Website: Check your state\’s economic development or small business office.

10. The Walmart Community Grant Program

The Walmart Community Grant Program provides grants to small businesses that are focused on community service and social impact. These grants are intended to help businesses that are working to improve their local communities, including businesses that focus on health and wellness, education, and job creation.

Key Features:

  • Funding Amount: Up to $5,000.
  • Eligibility: Small businesses and nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that have a positive community impact.
  • Application Process: Online application, requiring a description of how the grant will benefit the community.

Website: Walmart Community Grants

Final Thoughts

In 2025, there are numerous grants available for small business owners and entrepreneurs across the U.S. and beyond. From federal grants to state-level opportunities, and specialized programs for women, minority, and community-focused businesses, there are many ways to access funding to support business growth and innovation.

Applying for grants can be competitive, but it’s worth the effort, as the funds provided can serve as a powerful catalyst for expanding your business, developing new products, or entering new markets. Be sure to carefully review eligibility requirements, gather all necessary documentation, and submit well-prepared applications to increase your chances of success.

Remember, grants are a powerful tool, but they aren’t the only source of funding. Be sure to explore other financial aid options such as loans, crowdfunding, and venture capital to maximize your chances of getting the financial support you need to thrive in the competitive world of entrepreneurship.

Leave a Comment