business plan for grant application

How to write the business plan for a grant application?

Small business grants give free money to startups and existing businesses to help them flourish. 

Free money doesn’t come easy, though. You’ll need to first research and find the right grant for your business. Then you need to persuade the body offering the grant why they should give one to your business.

Most grants have their own specific application process, where businesses provide information so the body can decide whether it fits their specific funding criteria.

It’s important to accompany your grant application with a strong business plan. Besides, including most of the basic information that goes into a grant application (like the service or product you’re offering and your staffing plan) it also includes a financial forecast - showing the funding body how profitable your business is likely to be. 

Writing a business plan also provides another opportunity to convince them that your business objectives align with the grant’s purpose.

If you haven’t written a business plan for a grant application before, don’t worry. 

From information on where to find small business grants, to what you need to include in a business plan for a grant application, here are some key points to consider when applying for a small business grant.

In this guide:

What’s the difference between a small business grant and a loan?

What are the main types of small business grants, where can i find small business grants in the uk, where can i find small business grants in the us, what is a grant application, what information do i need to have before applying for a small business grant, why do you need a business plan for a grant application, what should you include in a business plan for a grant application.

• How long should a business plan be for a grant application?

What tool should I use to write my grant application business plan?

Business plan templates for a grant application, key takeaways.

Let's first define what a small business grant is, explore why they are given out and then compare it to a business loan.

What is a small business grant?

Small business grants are financial assistance provided by governments, organizations, or institutions to support small businesses in various stages of their development.

Unlike loans, which require repayment with interest, grants are typically awarded as non-repayable funds.

These grants aim to encourage entrepreneurship, stimulate economic growth, and address specific societal needs.

For example, a small retail store might receive a grant to upgrade its storefront and enhance its customer experience, while a local farmer could obtain a grant to invest in sustainable farming practices.

Grants come in different forms and may target specific industries, demographics, or geographic regions.

They can cover a wide range of expenses, including equipment purchases, marketing efforts, research and development projects, and employee training.

Small business owners often apply for grants to access resources that would otherwise be financially out of reach.

However, it's important to note that grant funding is competitive, and applicants typically need to meet certain criteria and demonstrate the potential impact of their proposed projects.

How it differs from a business loan?

While both grants and loans provide financial assistance to businesses, there are key differences between the two.

Unlike grants, business loans must be repaid over time, usually with interest.

Loans are typically provided by banks, credit unions, or other financial institutions, and they require collateral or a good credit history to secure.

For example, a small manufacturing company might take out a loan to purchase new machinery or expand its production facilities.

One of the main advantages of grants over loans is that they do not need to be repaid, which can significantly reduce the financial burden on small businesses, especially those in the early stages of development.

Additionally, grants often come with fewer restrictions on how the funds can be used compared to loans, which may have specific repayment terms and conditions.

However, grants are typically more competitive to obtain, and applicants may need to undergo a rigorous application process, including demonstrating the feasibility and impact of their proposed projects.

Understanding these differences will help you determine the most suitable financing option for your business needs and goals.

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

There are four main types of small business grants:

Government grants

Research and development grants, startup grants, non-profit grants.

Let's take a look at each one in more detail.

Government grants are funds provided by the government to support various types of businesses, ranging from start-ups to established enterprises.

These grants are often aimed at fostering economic growth, innovation, and job creation within specific industries or communities.

For instance, a government grant might support a small retail business in upgrading its technology infrastructure to enhance online sales, or it could help a local farmer invest in sustainable agricultural practices.

In the UK, small business owners can explore grants offered by entities such as Innovate UK , which provide financial support for innovation and business expansion.

Similarly, in the US, the Small Business Administration (SBA ) offers grants like the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, which funds research and development projects with commercial potential.

These grants can significantly alleviate financial burdens and provide crucial resources for small businesses to thrive.

Research and development (R&D) grants are specifically designed to support businesses in conducting innovative research and developing new products or services.

Small businesses engaged in R&D activities can benefit from these grants to cover the costs associated with experimentation, prototyping, and market testing.

For example, a small manufacturing company may receive an R&D grant to explore and develop eco-friendly materials for its product line.

In the UK, organizations like the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) offer funding opportunities for small businesses involved in cutting-edge research projects.

In the US, the National Science Foundation (NSF) provides grants to small businesses conducting high-risk, high-reward R&D initiatives.

By tapping into these resources, small business owners can accelerate their innovation efforts and gain a competitive edge in their respective industries.

Startup grants are tailored to support aspiring entrepreneurs in launching their new ventures.

These grants provide essential financial assistance during the early stages of business development, helping entrepreneurs cover initial expenses such as equipment purchases, marketing efforts, and operational costs.

For instance, a budding entrepreneur in the hospitality industry might receive a startup grant to renovate a space for a new café or restaurant concept.

In the UK, organizations like The Prince's Trust offer startup grants and mentorship programs to young entrepreneurs looking to turn their business ideas into reality.

These startup grants not only provide crucial financial support but also offer valuable guidance and networking opportunities for new business owners.

Non-profit grants are funds awarded by charitable organizations, foundations, or government agencies to support the initiatives of non-profit organizations.

These grants are typically aimed at addressing social, environmental, or community needs, rather than generating profit.

Non-profit organizations can use these grants to fund programs, projects, or operational expenses.

For example, a non-profit focused on environmental conservation might receive a grant to implement a recycling education program in local schools.

In the UK, non-profit organizations can explore grant opportunities from entities like the National Lottery Community Fund  which supports a wide range of community projects and initiatives.

In the US, organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation or the Ford Foundation offer grants to non-profits working on issues such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation.

These grants play a crucial role in enabling non-profit organizations to make a positive impact on society and address pressing social challenges.

The financial aid available to your business will depend on where in the UK you're based, your business’ size, your industry and whether you’re a startup or looking to expand your business.

By tapping into these resources, you can uncover potential funding sources to support your business endeavors in the UK market.

Small business grants in the US can be valuable resources for entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their businesses.

Understanding where to find these grants is essential for accessing financial support.

In this section, we'll explore some key avenues where small business owners can discover grant opportunities.

Government agencies

Government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels often offer grant programs to support small businesses.

For example, the Small Business Administration (SBA) administers various grant initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and economic development.

Small business owners can visit the SBA's website or contact their local SBA office to explore available grant programs.

Additionally, state economic development agencies and local chambers of commerce may also provide information on grants tailored to businesses within their jurisdiction.

Private foundations and Non-profit organizations

Private foundations and Non-profit organizations also play a significant role in providing grants to small businesses.

These entities may focus on specific industries, geographical regions, or social causes.

For instance, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women-owned businesses might offer grant opportunities exclusively for female entrepreneurs.

Small business owners can research and identify relevant foundations and nonprofits that align with their business goals and values.

Online platforms like GrantWatch or Foundation Directory Online can help streamline the search process by providing comprehensive databases of grant opportunities.

A grant application is a document or set of documents that is submitted to a grant-giving body with the purpose of securing funding for a startup or an existing business venture. 

Normally, grants are awarded to small businesses with the aim of generating jobs, energizing local communities and strengthening the economy.

While there’s an abundance of grants available to small businesses, obtaining one from the government can be quite tricky. Government grants are renowned for being quite complex and have a lot of stages. 

Each grant will come with its own unique criteria for applying, too. For example, if you’re applying for a research grant from a UK-based foundation then they may require that all your research is carried out within the UK. Or if you’re seeking funding as part of an initiative to make your business more sustainable, you might need to prove your business’s dedication to carrying out eco-friendly practices.

Whether you’re a startup or an existing business, the same rule applies when taking your first step in applying for a grant: research the funding body and the grant in question as thoroughly as possible so you know exactly what they’re looking for in a grant application.

According to Swoop , businesses should prepare the following information before applying for a small business grant:

• Create a realistic financial forecast to show your business’ financial position
• Provide evidence that shows how your business meets the specific grant qualifying criteria
• Specify exactly what your business plans to do with the money allocated
• Provide evidence that your team will be able to successfully meet this objective
• Be clear about the exact outcome you expect and whether there will be a return on the grant funder’s investment. This enables them to evaluate the efficiency of their grant.

The rationale behind writing a business plan for a grant application is simple: funding bodies want to know that they’re giving their money to a business they can trust. 

Writing a business plan will be an opportunity for you to neatly present all the information listed above. If you're not sure how to go about structuring a business plan, you can use business plan software. Most business plan software comes equipped with an inbuilt structure and instructions, ensuring you include all the information a funding body expects to see.

If you’re a start-up, a business plan also provides the perfect opportunity to show the grant-giving body that your business’ mission aligns with its own specific mission and purpose. 

If you’re already in operation, a business plan will show your business’ financial position and, if applicable, the positive impact it’s had on your community thus far. This helps alleviate any fear that your business is at risk of going under, making them more likely to get involved. 

Understanding the importance of a business plan is paramount when it comes to securing grant funding for your small business.

Crafting a compelling business plan is crucial when applying for a grant, as it provides potential funders with a comprehensive understanding of your business and its potential impact.

Let's delve into the key components that should be included in your business plan for a grant application.

Executive summary

The executive summary serves as an overview of your entire business plan, highlighting key aspects of your business in a concise manner.

It should include a brief introduction to your business, its mission, objectives, target market, and unique selling proposition.

For example, a small retail business seeking a grant to expand its operations might include information about its successful track record, customer base, and growth potential in the executive summary.

Company description

The company overview provides detailed information about your business, including its history, legal structure, ownership, and management team.

For example, you could state that your business is owned by four shareholders, each contributing 25% to total equity and that it is a limited liability company based in London.

Description of your product/service

This section outlines the products or services offered by your business, emphasizing their unique features and benefits.

Small business owners should clearly define their offerings and explain how they address the needs of their target market.

For example, a small manufacturing company applying for a grant might showcase its innovative product design or eco-friendly manufacturing processes to demonstrate its competitive edge.

Market analysis

A thorough market analysis is essential for demonstrating market demand and identifying potential opportunities and challenges.

Small business owners should research their target market, industry trends, competitors, and customer demographics.

For instance, a construction company seeking a grant may analyze local housing trends, demand for specific construction services, and competitor pricing strategies to inform its market strategy.

The strategy section outlines your business's approach to achieving its objectives and gaining a competitive advantage.

Small business owners should define their marketing, sales, and operational strategies, as well as any plans for expansion or diversification.

For example, a business services firm applying for a grant may detail its digital marketing strategy, networking efforts, and plans to introduce new service offerings to attract clients.

This section provides insight into the day-to-day operations of your business, including production processes, staffing requirements, and facilities management.

Small business owners should describe how their operations support the delivery of products or services to customers efficiently and effectively.

For example, a hospitality business applying for a grant may outline its staffing structure, customer service protocols, and inventory management systems to showcase its operational capabilities.

Financial forecast

The financial forecast projects your business's future financial performance, including revenue, expenses, and cash flow.

Small business owners should include detailed financial projections, such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to demonstrate the viability of their business model.

For example, a small agriculture business applying for a grant may forecast revenue growth based on anticipated crop yields, pricing trends, and market demand for its products.

Whilst writing your business plan, we recommend that you have the grant-giving body’s mission and purpose open on a separate tab. Where possible, refer back to the foundation’s mission in your business plan to show how it aligns with your business’ own values. 

You could even go a step further by adding buzzwords from the funding body’s mission statement in your plan to show how much you’ve thought it out. 

How long should a business plan for a grant application be?

The length of a business plan for a grant application can vary depending on the specific requirements of the grant provider.

In general, however, it's best to keep your business plan concise and focused, typically ranging from 10 to 20 pages.

Small business owners should prioritize clarity and relevance, focusing on presenting essential information in a compelling manner.

By keeping the business plan concise, applicants can ensure that funders can easily grasp the key aspects of their business and make informed decisions regarding grant funding.

If you haven’t written a business plan for a grant application before, the process can feel a little overwhelming. 

Using business plan software is a great way to create a high-quality business plan quickly and efficiently.

There are many business planning software out there, so it’s important to choose the right one for you. 

Most business plan software generate three full financial statements for you, helping you give the foundation as realistic a picture of your business’ finances as possible. 

For grant applications, we recommend going with a business plan software that lets you model grants. This gives the funding body total transparency as to how exactly their grant would be used within the business. 

Attractive visuals and a striking cover page with your business’s name and logo will also help your business stand out. So we recommend choosing a business plan software that breaks your numbers into colourful, easy-to-read charts and tables and automatically generates a cover page for you. 

If you’re not sure which business plan software to go for to create your business plan for a grant application, we recommend trying The Business Plan Shop . 

As well as having the features listed above, our online business plan software enables you to:

• Create a financial forecast to show your business’ financial potential
• Run a quality check to identify any issues with your forecast before sending it to a funding body
• Follow clear instructions to write a professional business plan
• Draw inspiration from the templates stored within our business plan software
• Track your actuals against your forecast

Above is an example of how your business plan for a grant application might like look in PDF format, including a table of contents and stylish cover page.

By leveraging these tools, you can streamline the process of creating your business plan and present a compelling case for grant funding.

When applying for a grant, having a well-structured business plan is essential to showcase your business's potential and suitability for funding.

Whilst our current business plan templates aren’t designed solely for grant applications, they can easily be tweaked to make it for that purpose.

The structure remains the same as illustrated in the outline above - all you need to do is replace the numbers and text with your own details!

The Business Plan Shop offers you templates for most industries, including retail, hospitality and services.

Now that we've covered the essential aspects of preparing a business plan for a grant application, let's recap the key points to remember.

• Use business plan software such as The Business Plan Shop to turn writing a business plan for a grant application into a breeze.
• Understand the different types of small business grants available: government grants, research and development grants, startup grants, and non-profit grants offer various opportunities for financial assistance.
• Thoroughly research grant opportunities: explore government agencies, private foundations, and nonprofit organizations to find suitable grant programs for your business.
• Tailor your business plan to the grant requirements: customize your business plan to align with the specific criteria and objectives of the grant you're applying for.
• Be prepared to demonstrate financial viability: provide realistic financial projections and evidence of your business's ability to generate revenue and sustain operations.
• Follow application guidelines carefully: pay attention to the requirements and deadlines specified by the grant provider, and ensure your application meets all criteria for consideration.
• Seek assistance if needed: don't hesitate to reach out to business advisors, mentors, or grant specialists for guidance and support throughout the grant application process.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How to do market research for a business plan
• How to write a business plan for a bank loan
• How investors analyse business plans
• The difference between a business plan and a business case

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

Create a convincing business plan

Assess the profitability of your business idea and create a persuasive business plan to pitch to investors

500,000+ entrepreneurs have already tried our solution - why not join them?

Not ready to try our on-line tool ? Learn more about our solution here

Need some inspiration for your business plan?

Subscribe to The Business Plan Shop and gain access to our business plan template library.

Need a professional business plan? Discover our solution

Write your business plan with ease!

It's easy to create a professional business plan with The Business Plan Shop

Want to find out more before you try? Learn more about our solution here

• Submissions & Reviews
• Publishing & Journals
• Scholarships
• News & Updates
• Resources Home
• Submittable 101
• Bias & Inclusivity Resources
• Customer Stories
• Get our newsletter
• Request a Demo

How to Start a Grant Program from Scratch

Start a grant and make a real impact that lifts up your community.

Creating a grant and becoming a grant funder may take some effort, but it can be incredibly rewarding and impactful if you do it right. 

It can also—no exaggeration—change the world.

Giving back to your community through starting a grant program is an admirable act of altruism that ensures your resources will be used on specific projects, consistently over time, and in line with your interests, passions, and goals.  

But where do you start when you start a grant? Even if you already have funding secured, launching a grant opportunity can be intimidating and daunting, especially if you’ve never done it before. 

Starting a grant without taking the proper steps can create tax issues, waste resources, or decrease the impact of your final program. 

Launching a grant the right way takes significant planning, research, and thoughtfulness. Here’s how to start a grant one step at a time, to get you from idea to implementation. 

1. Choose your focus and mission 

The issue your grant program addresses should be specific, but not so specific that you’ll have trouble finding applicants. 

Grantmaking goals tend to fall into one or more the following broad categories: 

• Help marginalized groups 
• Educate 
• Save the environment 
• Work toward equality 
• Forward science/knowledge 
• Provide basic needs 
• Spread humanity 

Within one or more of those goals, identify a specific angle for your organization’s mission. Your grant may center on funding housing for the homeless in your city, bankrolling science classes for African-American girls in middle school, or creating more habitats for spotted owls. 

If you don’t have a clear idea for your organization’s focus or mission, consider funding a project based on your passions and interests. For example, do you spend a lot of time outdoors, or do you play music professionally? That could guide your community grant. 

Also consider what helped you find success: perhaps it was an arts program that made you less shy, or an after school math team program that helped you find your strengths. 

Next, make certain that the community actually needs what you want to offer by conducting a needs analysis. There may already be similar programs or grants in place; your grant wouldn’t create much of an impact in that case. Referencing a grant report that outlines existing programs in your area can save you a lot of time and help you focus your grant on real needs. 

Bottom line: when you start a grant, choosing a mission should be a careful consideration of your areas of interest and the needs of those you want to help. 

2. Determine whether you need to set up a foundation 

Private foundations often fund grants from one source—like an individual, an estate, or a corporation. They are tax-exempt and managed by a director or a board of trustees and allocate their money to nonprofit organizations who apply for funds. 

If you have private funds with which to establish your grantmaking program, you’ll likely want to establish an incorporated private foundation. 

If you’re planning to fund your grants via a fundraising plan and public donations, you’ll likely need to establish a public charity, community foundation, or nonprofit organization. These organizations are also tax-exempt and are funded by public donations or grants from larger entities. 

If you don’t care about the tax benefits of offering grants, your options are wide open as long as you have funding secured. You can distribute your money as you’d like, and focus on the nitty gritty of determining your mission and how you will collect, review, and accept proposals. 

However, the vast majority of people and groups establishing grants definitely want to take advantage of the tax benefits. 

Because foundations involve significant start-up costs and efforts, you may consider running your grant through an already established foundation, charity, nonprofit, or other organization. This is a good option if you:

• Don’t mind working with a larger group
• Are comfortable giving up some control
• Can locate an organization that shares your mission and goals
• Don’t wish to run your own foundation

If this option sounds best to you, begin by researching possible organizations to work with and contacting their leaders with your grant idea. In this case, you’ll want to skip down a few steps and firmly establish your grant’s funding, focus, and mission before you go any further. 

Otherwise, continue to the next step to learn more about starting your own grantmaking foundation.

3. Consult with legal and tax professionals 

You’ll want to consult with an attorney, accountant, and/or financial advisor to validate your decision to set up and incorporate a foundation (or not). 

These professionals can also help you with the following documents and forms: 

• Articles of incorporation
• Foundation bylaws 
• Tax-exempt status (IRS Form 1023)

While incorporating and achieving tax-exempt status are not required, they are highly recommended for most people who wish to start a private foundation. 

Having tax-exempt status saves you from having to pay the government for your charitable endeavors and increases the impact of your grant program. 

Incorporation allows your foundation to become its own legal entity, which ensures that it can continue even after your involvement ends. It also ensures that you will not be personally liable if legal issues arise.

4. Assemble a Board of Directors 

Once you’ve created your grantmaking entity, it’s time to put together a Board of Directors or panel of trustees. The size of this group can vary, but every one should have a few things in common: 

• Passionate about the mission of the grant 
• Available to dedicate time and energy to your cause
• Knowledgeable about some aspect of your grant program or mission 

It’s completely acceptable to add friends or acquaintances to your board. But it’s also important to achieve diversity: not only is it the right thing to do, but it will help your foundation to have a board with a wide range of experiences and knowledge. 

Consider an application process for your board. You can even use Submittable to collect, review, and select board member applications much in the same way you’d use it with grant proposals. 

5. Determine grant funding details

Finally, with the assistance of your new board, it’s time to dig into the details of your grant funding. 

Depending on your goals, your mission, and the funds you have available, you need to make decisions about both time and money. More specifically, you should focus on three questions: 

What’s the best size for your grant program? 

Do you want to give a very large amount of money to one large organization, like some federal grants and government grants do? Or do you want to give a series of microgrants to dozens, hundreds, or thousands of grantees, as you would with small business grants or small business loans? 

Depending on your program, one avenue could have a much larger impact than the other. 

What’s the best duration for your grant program? 

Different grants have different lifecycles. Some run annually, some run seasonally, and others run continuously. 

Which grant lifecycle gives you enough time to execute on administrative tasks while also allowing your money to make a difference?

How will grant funds be used? 

As the one awarding funds, you get to decide exactly how grant funds can be used by grantees. 

You can be as strict or lax as you’d like—although in recent years, the trend in philanthropy has been to give grantees more leeway to spend their grant money on general operating costs or adjacent expenses. 

Remember: these funding details are not set in stone and you can make changes as you learn. When you start a grant program, you will make mistakes and require adjustments (and that’s okay!).

6. Write a business plan 

Next up: your business plan. Specifically, when you start a grant program, your business plan should include details on how you’ll allocate the program’s funds, and what resources you’ll need to make the program efficient and effective. 

You want to strike a smart balance between spending on grants versus administrative and operational costs. After all, effective grant management requires having sufficient resources. 

Luckily, your board of directors will be there to help you through each part of this step, from allocating spending to hiring. 

7. Write a marketing plan 

Branding and marketing are your next project. You’ll need a logo and tagline, and you’ll need to establish your tone and voice. You’ll need a website and social media accounts, too. 

You’ll also need to start thinking about brand awareness and your marketing budget for advertising and PR. 

Be sure to reserve part of your marketing budget for advertising your call for grant proposals.

8. Establish the grant’s terms

Writing out a grant’s guidelines at this point should be pretty straightforward since you’ve already determined your mission, your focus, your funding details, and your lifecycle. 

The grant’s terms and guidelines should include absolutely everything that a grant writer would need to know to apply, including: 

• All important deadlines 
• All grant requirements 
• All application requirements 
• The grant’s goal/mission 
• The amount of the grant
• The grant’s timeline 
• The grant’s reporting requirements 

Once you have your guidelines, format them so that they’re easy to read and accessible on a landing page. 

Make certain that your landing page is branded and easy to find for grant writers and grant seekers. Submittable’s grant management system makes it easy to set up your branded landing page and guidelines. 

Want to speed up your grant management process?

Submittable simplifies even robust grant review processes to save you time.

9. Set up an application process 

It’s finally time to set up your grant application online so you can start accepting grant proposals.

With the help of your grant administrators, use a grant management platform like Submittable to build your application form. 

When creating your grant application form , find a happy medium between asking for too much information (which creates a barrier to applying) and not asking for enough information (which makes it hard to pick the best applications). 

The length of your application should also reflect the size and heft of your grant. A grant writer will put more time and effort into a government grant or federal grant worth millions, but less time into a small business grant that is for a few hundred or a few thousand dollars. 

Submittable’s form builder has the fastest implementation of any platform by a long shot, and our features make it easy to create responsive, accessible forms with logic and conditions that fit your exact needs. 

Plus, Submittable’s eligibility quizzes save you and applicants time by screening out unqualified candidates before they even get to your application.

10. Organize a review process and post your call for proposals 

Assemble a review board and a process for reviewing grant applications and picking successful grant proposals. 

Considerations for your review board: 

• How many people will you need to review grant proposals? 
• Will any or all of these people need specific expertise? 
• How will they be compensated? 
• How much time will they need to dedicate to you? 
• Where will your reviewers be located? Will they be remote? 
• What kind of training will your reviewers require? 
• How will you ensure diversity and inclusion on your board? 

Considerations for your review process: 

• What will your scoring rubric be? 
• How many rounds of review will you require? 
• Will you engage in anonymous review, or keep any fields hidden? 
• How will you minimize bias during your process? 
• How long will this process take? 
• Will you share review comments or notes with your grant applicants? 
• How will you determine the final decision? 

Submittable makes it easy to systematize almost all of these considerations, making your review process more efficient, more effective, and less prone to bias. 

One of Submittable’s many review features includes multiple rounds of review, so that you can easily divide and conquer even the largest and most complex grant application processes. 

Welcome to the world of giving 

Establishing a grant the right way takes time, resources, effort, and care. But even small business grants and grants for individuals can change lives and shape the world we live in. A grant award of any size can make your community better.  Start a grant, change the world.

Once you establish your foundation, create your board, and turn your thoughts into a mission, Submittable can help you with every detail of collecting and reviewing grant applications.

Making a grant is work, but it doesn’t have to be quite as much work as it used to be. 

Sarah Aswell is an editor and content strategist at Submittable. She’s also a writer and stand-up comedian who gets rejected via Submittable all the time. You can read her comedy criticism at Forbes , follow her on Twitter , or learn more about her creative work on her website .

Better grants management starts here

Try the trusted and intuitive option for streamlined grants management.

Watch a demo

About Submittable

Submittable powers you with tools to launch, manage, measure and grow your social impact programs, locally and globally. From grants and scholarships to awards and CSR programs, we partner with you so you can start making a difference, fast. The start-to-finish platform makes your workflow smarter and more efficient, leading to better decisions and bigger impact. Easily report on success, and learn for the future—Submittable is flexible and powerful enough to grow alongside your programs.

Submittable is used by more than 11 thousand organizations, from major foundations and corporations to governments, higher education, and more, and has accepted nearly 20 million applications to date.

HOW IT WORKS

The Ultimate Grant Writing Guide (and How to Find and Apply for Grants)

Securing grants requires strategic planning. Identifying relevant opportunities, building collaborations, and crafting a comprehensive grant proposal are crucial steps. Read our ultimate guide on grant writing, finding grants, and applying for grants to get the funding for your research.

Updated on February 22, 2024

Embarking on a journey of groundbreaking research and innovation always requires more than just passion and dedication, it demands financial support. In the academic and research domains, securing grants is a pivotal factor for transforming these ideas into tangible outcomes. 

Grant awards not only offer the backing needed for ambitious projects but also stand as a testament to the importance and potential impact of your work. The process of identifying, pursuing, and securing grants, however, is riddled with nuances that necessitate careful exploration. 

Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a budding academic, navigating this complex world of grants can be challenging, but we’re here to help. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps of applying for grants, providing expert tips and insights along the way.

Finding grant opportunities 

Prior to diving into the application phase, the process of finding grants involves researching and identifying those that are relevant and realistic to your project. While the initial step may seem as simple as entering a few keywords into a search engine, the full search phase takes a more thorough investigation.

By focusing efforts solely on the grants that align with your goals, this pre-application preparation streamlines the process while also increasing the likelihood of meeting all the requirements. In fact, having a well thought out plan and a clear understanding of the grants you seek both simplifies the entire activity and sets you and your team up for success.

Apply these steps when searching for appropriate grant opportunities:

1. Determine your need

Before embarking on the grant-seeking journey, clearly articulate why you need the funds and how they will be utilized. Understanding your financial requirements is crucial for effective grant research.

2. Know when you need the money

Grants operate on specific timelines with set award dates. Align your grant-seeking efforts with these timelines to enhance your chances of success.

3. Search strategically

Build a checklist of your most important, non-negotiable search criteria for quickly weeding out grant options that absolutely do not fit your project. Then, utilize the following resources to identify potential grants:

• Online directories
• Small Business Administration (SBA)
• Foundations

4. Develop a tracking tool

After familiarizing yourself with the criteria of each grant, including paperwork, deadlines, and award amounts, make a spreadsheet or use a project management tool to stay organized. Share this with your team to ensure that everyone can contribute to the grant cycle.

Here are a few popular grant management tools to try: 

• Jotform : spreadsheet template
• Airtable : table template
• Instrumentl : software
• Submit : software

Tips for Finding Research Grants

Consider large funding sources : Explore major agencies like NSF and NIH.

Reach out to experts : Consult experienced researchers and your institution's grant office.

Stay informed : Regularly check news in your field for novel funding sources.

Know agency requirements : Research and align your proposal with their requisites.

Ask questions : Use the available resources to get insights into the process.

Demonstrate expertise : Showcase your team's knowledge and background.

Neglect lesser-known sources : Cast a wide net to diversify opportunities.

Name drop reviewers : Prevent potential conflicts of interest.

Miss your chance : Find field-specific grant options.

Forget refinement : Improve proposal language, grammar, and clarity.

Ignore grant support services : Enhance the quality of your proposal.

Overlook co-investigators : Enhance your application by adding experience.

Grant collaboration 

Now that you’ve taken the initial step of identifying potential grant opportunities, it’s time to find collaborators. The application process is lengthy and arduous. It requires a diverse set of skills. This phase is crucial for success.

With their valuable expertise and unique perspectives, these collaborators play instrumental roles in navigating the complexities of grant writing. While exploring the judiciousness that goes into building these partnerships, we will underscore why collaboration is both advantageous and indispensable to the pursuit of securing grants.

Why is collaboration important to the grant process?

Some grant funding agencies outline collaboration as an outright requirement for acceptable applications. However, the condition is more implied with others. Funders may simply favor or seek out applications that represent multidisciplinary and multinational projects.

To get an idea of the types of collaboration major funders prefer, try searching “collaborative research grants” to uncover countless possibilities, such as:

• National Endowment for the Humanities
• American Brain Tumor Association

For exploring grants specifically for international collaboration, check out this blog:

• 30+ Research Funding Agencies That Support International Collaboration

Either way, proposing an interdisciplinary research project substantially increases your funding opportunities. Teaming up with multiple collaborators who offer diverse backgrounds and skill sets enhances the robustness of your research project and increases credibility.

This is especially true for early career researchers, who can leverage collaboration with industry, international, or community partners to boost their research profile. The key lies in recognizing the multifaceted advantages of collaboration in the context of obtaining funding and maximizing the impact of your research efforts.

How can I find collaborators?

Before embarking on the search for a collaborative partner, it's essential to crystallize your objectives for the grant proposal and identify the type of support needed. Ask yourself these questions: 

1)Which facet of the grant process do I need assistance with:

2) Is my knowledge lacking in a specific: 

• Population?

3) Do I have access to the necessary:

Use these questions to compile a detailed list of your needs and prioritize them based on magnitude and ramification. These preliminary step ensure that search for an ideal collaborator is focused and effective.

Once you identify targeted criteria for the most appropriate partners, it’s time to make your approach. While a practical starting point involves reaching out to peers, mentors, and other colleagues with shared interests and research goals, we encourage you to go outside your comfort zone.

Beyond the first line of potential collaborators exists a world of opportunities to expand your network. Uncover partnership possibilities by engaging with speakers and attendees at events, workshops, webinars, and conferences related to grant writing or your field.

Also, consider joining online communities that facilitate connections among grant writers and researchers. These communities offer a space to exchange ideas and information. Sites like Collaboratory , NIH RePorter , and upwork provide channels for canvassing and engaging with feasible collaborators who are good fits for your project. 

Like any other partnership, carefully weigh your vetted options before committing to a collaboration. Talk with individuals about their qualifications and experience, availability and work style, and terms for grant writing collaborations.

Transparency on both sides of this partnership is imperative to forging a positive work environment where goals, values, and expectations align for a strong grant proposal.

Putting together a winning grant proposal

It’s time to assemble the bulk of your grant application packet – the proposal itself. Each funder is unique in outlining the details for specific grants, but here are several elements fundamental to every proposal:

• Executive Summary
• Needs assessment
• Project description
• Evaluation plan
• Team introduction
• Sustainability plan 

This list of multi-faceted components may seem daunting, but careful research and planning will make it manageable. 

Start by reading about the grant funder to learn:

• What their mission and goals are,
• Which types of projects they have funded in the past, and
• How they evaluate and score applications.

Next, view sample applications to get a feel for the length, flow, and tone the evaluators are looking for. Many funders offer samples to peruse, like these from the NIH , while others are curated by online platforms , such as Grantstation.

Also, closely evaluate the grant application’s requirements. they vary between funding organizations and opportunities, and also from one grant cycle to the next. Take notes and make a checklist of these requirements to add to an Excel spreadsheet, Google smartsheet, or management system for organizing and tracking your grant process.

Finally, understand how you will submit the final grant application. Many funders use online portals with character or word limits for each section. Be aware of these limits beforehand. Simplify the editing process by first writing each section in a Word document to be copy and pasted into the corresponding submission fields.

If there is no online application platform, the funder will usually offer a comprehensive Request for Proposal (RFP) to guide the structure of your grant proposal. The RFP: 

• Specifies page constraints
• Delineates specific sections
• Outlines additional attachments
• Provides other pertinent details

Components of a grant proposal

Cover letter.

Though not always explicitly requested, including a cover letter is a strategic maneuver that could be the factor determining whether or not grant funders engage with your proposal. It’s an opportunity to give your best first impression by grabbing the reviewer’s attention and compelling them to read further. 

Cover letters are not the place for excessive emotion or detail, keep it brief and direct, stating your financial needs and purpose confidently from the outset. Also, try to clearly demonstrate the connection between your project and the funder’s mission to create additional value beyond the formal proposal.

Executive summary

Like an abstract for your research manuscript, the executive summary is a brief synopsis that encapsulates the overarching topics and key points of your grant proposal. It must set the tone for the main body of the proposal while providing enough information to stand alone if necessary.

Refer to How to Write an Executive Summary for a Grant Proposal for detailed guidance like:

• Give a clear and concise account of your identity, funding needs, and project roadmap.
• Write in an instructive manner aiming for an objective and persuasive tone
• Be convincing and pragmatic about your research team's ability.
• Follow the logical flow of main points in your proposal.
• Use subheadings and bulleted lists for clarity.
• Write the executive summary at the end of the proposal process.
• Reference detailed information explained in the proposal body.
• Address the funder directly.
• Provide excessive details about your project's accomplishments or management plans.
• Write in the first person.
• Disclose confidential information that could be accessed by competitors.
• Focus excessively on problems rather than proposed solutions.
• Deviate from the logical flow of the main proposal.
• Forget to align with evaluation criteria if specified

Project narrative

After the executive summary is the project narrative . This is the main body of your grant proposal and encompasses several distinct elements that work together to tell the story of your project and justify the need for funding. 

Include these primary components:

Introduction of the project team

Briefly outline the names, positions, and credentials of the project’s directors, key personnel, contributors, and advisors in a format that clearly defines their roles and responsibilities. Showing your team’s capacity and ability to meet all deliverables builds confidence and trust with the reviewers.

Needs assessment or problem statement

A compelling needs assessment (or problem statement) clearly articulates a problem that must be urgently addressed. It also offers a well-defined project idea as a possible solution. This statement emphasizes the pressing situation and highlights existing gaps and their consequences to illustrate how your project will make a difference.

To begin, ask yourself these questions:

• What urgent need are we focusing on with this project?
• Which unique solution does our project offer to this urgent need? 
• How will this project positively impact the world once completed?

Here are some helpful examples and templates.

Goals and objectives

Goals are broad statements that are fairly abstract and intangible. Objectives are more narrow statements that are concrete and measurable. For example :

• Goal : “To explore the impact of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance in college students.”
• Objective : “To compare cognitive test scores of students with less than six hours of sleep and those with 8 or more hours of sleep.”

Focus on outcomes, not processes, when crafting goals and objectives. Use the SMART acronym to align them with the proposal's mission while emphasizing their impact on the target audience.

Methods and strategies

It is vitally important to explain how you intend to use the grant funds to fulfill the project’s objectives. Detail the resources and activities that will be employed. Methods and strategies are the bridge between idea and action. They must prove to reviewers the plausibility of your project and the significance of their possible funding.

Here are some useful guidelines for writing your methods section that are outlined in " Winning Grants: Step by Step ."

• Firmly tie your methods to the proposed project's objectives and needs assessment.
• Clearly link them to the resources you are requesting in the proposal budget.
• Thoroughly explain why you chose these methods by including research, expert opinion, and your experience.
• Precisely list the facilities and capital equipment that you will use in the project.
• Carefully structure activities so that the program moves toward the desired results in a time-bound manner.

A comprehensive evaluation plan underscores the effectiveness and accountability of a project for both the funders and your team. An evaluation is used for tracking progress and success. The evaluation process shows how to determine the success of your project and measure the impact of the grant award by systematically gauging and analyzing each phase of your project as it compares to the set objectives.

Evaluations typically fall into two standard categories:

1. Formative evaluation : extending from project development through implementation, continuously provides feedback for necessary adjustments and improvements. 

2. Summative evaluation : conducted post-project completion, critically assesses overall success and impact by compiling information on activities and outcomes.

Creating a conceptual model of your project is helpful when identifying these key evaluation points. Then, you must consider exactly who will do the evaluations, what specific skills and resources they need, how long it will take, and how much it will cost.

Sustainability

Presenting a solid plan that illustrates exactly how your project will continue to thrive after the grant money is gone builds the funder's confidence in the project’s longevity and significance. In this sustainability section, it is vital to demonstrate a diversified funding strategy for securing the long-term viability of your program.

There are three possible long term outcomes for projects with correlated sustainability options:

• Short term projects: Though only implemented once, will have ongoing maintenance costs, such as monitoring, training, and updates.

(E.g., digitizing records, cleaning up after an oil spill)

• Projects that will generate income at some point in the future: must be funded until your product or service can cover operating costs with an alternative plan in place for deficits.

(E.g., medical device, technology, farming method)

• Ongoing projects: will eventually need a continuous stream of funding from a government entity or large organization.

(E.g., space exploration, hurricane tracking)

Along with strategies for funding your program beyond the initial grant,  reference your access to institutional infrastructure and resources that will reduce costs.

Also, submit multi-year budgets that reflect how sustainability factors are integrated into the project’s design.

The budget section of your grant proposal, comprising both a spreadsheet and a narrative, is the most influential component. It should be able to stand independently as a suitable representation of the entire endeavor. Providing a detailed plan to outline how grant funds will be utilized is crucial for illustrating cost-effectiveness and careful consideration of project expenses. 

A comprehensive grant budget offers numerous benefits to both the grantor , or entity funding the grant, and the grantee , those receiving the funding, such as:

• Grantor : The budget facilitates objective evaluation and comparison between multiple proposals by conveying a project's story through responsible fund management and financial transparency.
• Grantee : The budget serves as a tracking tool for monitoring and adjusting expenses throughout the project and cultivates trust with funders by answering questions before they arise.

Because the grant proposal budget is all-encompassing and integral to your efforts for securing funding, it can seem overwhelming. Start by listing all anticipated expenditures within two broad categories, direct and indirect expenses , where:

• Direct : are essential for successful project implementation, are measurable project-associated costs, such as salaries, equipment, supplies, travel, and external consultants, and are itemized and detailed in various categories within the grant budget.
• Indirect : includes administrative costs not directly or exclusively tied to your project, but necessary for its completion, like rent, utilities, and insurance, think about lab or meeting spaces that are shared by multiple project teams, or Directors who oversee several ongoing projects.

After compiling your list, review sample budgets to understand the typical layout and complexity. Focus closely on the budget narratives , where you have the opportunity to justify each aspect of the spreadsheet to ensure clarity and validity.

While not always needed, the appendices consist of relevant supplementary materials that are clearly referenced within your grant application. These might include: 

• Updated resumes that emphasize staff members' current positions and accomplishments. 
• Letters of support from people or organizations that have authority in the field of your research, or community members that may benefit from the project.
• Visual aids like charts, graphs, and maps that contribute directly to your project’s story and are referred to previously in the application. 

Finalizing your grant application

Now that your grant application is finished, make sure it's not just another document in the stack Aim for a grant proposal that captivates the evaluator. It should stand out not only for presenting an excellent project, but for being engaging and easily comprehended . 

Keep the language simple. Avoid jargon. Prioritizing accuracy and conciseness. Opt for reader-friendly formatting with white space, headings, standard fonts, and illustrations to enhance readability.

Always take time for thorough proofreading and editing. You can even set your proposal aside for a few days before revisiting it for additional edits and improvements. At this stage, it is helpful to seek outside feedback from those familiar with the subject matter as well as novices to catch unnoticed mistakes and improve clarity.

If you want to be absolutely sure your grant proposal is polished, consider getting it edited by AJE .

How can AI help the grant process?

When used efficiently, AI is a powerful tool for streamlining and enhancing various aspects of the grant process.

• Use AI algorithms to review related studies and identify knowledge gaps.
• Employ AI for quick analysis of complex datasets to identify patterns and trends.
• Leverage AI algorithms to match your project with relevant grant opportunities.
• Apply Natural Language Processing for analyzing grant guidelines and tailoring proposals accordingly.
• Utilize AI-powered tools for efficient project planning and execution.
• Employ AI for tracking project progress and generating reports.
• Take advantage of AI tools for improving the clarity, coherence, and quality of your proposal.
• Rely solely on manual efforts that are less comprehensive and more time consuming.
• Overlook the fact that AI is designed to find patterns and trends within large datasets.
• Minimize AI’s ability to use set parameters for sifting through vast amounts of data quickly.
• Forget that the strength of AI lies in its capacity to follow your prompts without divergence.
• Neglect tools that assist with scheduling, resource allocation, and milestone tracking.
• Settle for software that is not intuitive with automated reminders and updates.
• Hesitate to use AI tools for improving grammar, spelling, and composition throughout the writing process.

Remember that AI provides a diverse array of tools; there is no universal solution. Identify the most suitable tool for your specific task. Also, like a screwdriver or a hammer, AI needs informed human direction and control to work effectively.

Looking for tips when writing your grant application? 

Check out these resources:

• 4 Tips for Writing a Persuasive Grant Proposal
• Writing Effective Grant Applications
• 7 Tips for Writing an Effective Grant Proposal
• The best-kept secrets to winning grants
• The Best Grant Writing Books for Beginner Grant Writers
• Research Grant Proposal Funding: How I got $1 Million

Final thoughts

The bottom line – applying for grants is challenging. It requires passion, dedication, and a set of diverse skills rarely found within one human being.

Therefore, collaboration is key to a successful grant process . It encourages everyone’s strengths to shine. Be honest and ask yourself, “Which elements of this grant application do I really need help with?” Seek out experts in those areas.

Keep this guide on hand to reference as you work your way through this funding journey. Use the resources contained within. Seek out answers to all the questions that will inevitably arise throughout the process.

The grants are out there just waiting for the right project to present itself – one that shares the funder’s mission and is a benefit to our communities. Find grants that align with your project goals, tell your story through a compelling proposal, and get ready to make the world a better place with your research.

The AJE Team

See our "Privacy Policy"

A Guide to Writing a Small Business Grant Proposal

Last Updated on 

January 19, 2023

While there may be more opportunities for non-profit organizations when it comes to grant funding, grants for small business owners are not rare.

In fact, small businesses received more than $334 billion in total award obligations through the SBA in 2021 , spread across more than 9 million transactions and 7 million new awards. Over $254 million was spent through grants alone. The amount spent on grant awards has risen in 2022 as well, increasing to more than $455 million.

Federal contracts and financial assistance are out there. And that is without mentioning small business research grants and other types of non-governmental contracts and awards.

Grants for small businesses can often be a better option than a loan, as grants do not require repayment of any kind. The caveat? Your goals need to align with the goals of the organization or awarding agency you’re seeking a grant from.

Many grants are dedicated to supporting non-profit work or specific research initiatives. However, small business grants are dedicated to helping owners and founders achieve specific business goals or projects that align with a funding agency’s mission or a particular initiative.

This includes research grants designed to support businesses working on research and development that has a high potential for commercialization. As a biotech founder, CEO, or employee, this is most likely the exact type of grant you’re looking for.

Like non-profit grants, small business grants are offered through both government and non-government agencies. Furthermore, unlike loans, grants do not need to be paid back.

In this article, we’ll review small business grants, grant proposals, and how to write small business grant proposals. We’ll also review some best practices for grant writing, the differences between a “good” and “bad” proposal, the various types of grants available, and additional resources to help you write a small business grant.

Need new or refurbished lab equipment? Excedr leases.

See our equipment list and browse a sample selection of what we can source. Or, if you’re ready, request an estimate.

What Is a Small Business Grant Proposal?

A small business grant proposal, like a typical grant proposal, is a clear and concise presentation of what you’re proposing to do before it actually happens. It usually takes the form of a written document that you either prepare online or physically.

You send your proposal to a particular funding agency that’s providing a grant opportunity you’re interested in.

The presentation should thoroughly explain the reasons for your proposal and why you’re applying for grant funding from a specific funder. Explain the who, what, when, where, how, and why of your proposed project or program.

When you clearly and concisely explain your proposal in an organized and well-thought manner, you will have a better chance at receiving approval from the grant reviewers.

What Are the Steps to Developing a Grant Proposal?

There are several steps you should take to develop an effective proposal. First, begin with an idea, followed by planning, strategy, and success.

What is the idea you’re hoping to make a reality? It’s ideally something you’re already working on and are seeking additional funding to help continue developing, but it can also be something you’re planning on starting and need funding to begin that journey.

Once you know what you’re trying to accomplish, you need to start planning. Flesh out the details of what your program, project, or initiative is all about that you’re seeking funding for.

After planning, you’ll need to start forming a strategy. This involves detailing your approach and methodology regarding bringing your program or project to life. How will you effectively put your plan into action?

With a strategy in place for success, you’ll be able to show the funder how you will accomplish what you’re setting out to do and how you will evaluate your accomplishments, giving the funder confidence in you by showing them you’ve got a game plan.

From here, you will want to take some additional steps before you start researching grant and developing your proposal:

• Make sure your idea can be funded, as some things are not eligible for grant funding
• Read the grant application guidelines carefully, they will help you determine if you actually qualify or not
• Make note of the eligibility requirements and what the funder is requesting; you might not be eligible or have everything they’re asking for

Lastly, ask yourself:

• Is my proposal doable?
• Does it have a focused goal?
• Can you provide everything a funder is asking for in the application? (If you can’t, you’re putting yourself in a position to become disqualified, wasting time and effort)
• Is it in alignment with your own goals and, most importantly, with the goals of the potential funding agency?
• Is there a beginning, middle, and end? (Granting agencies do not fund projects forever; in fact, most grants only last a year or two, depending on who’s providing the grant)
• Can you meet the deadline? (Grants have deadlines; if you start too late, you’ll have to rush and that can lead to mistakes and disqualification)

Grant Proposal Review & Common Elements

Grant proposal guidelines and instructions vary from funder to funder. This means the required information and formatting may be different from proposal to proposal. To better understand the common elements, it can help to review grant proposal guidelines and instructions to get a sense of what will be asked of you.

In the guidelines that you can typically find on the funding agency’s website, you’ll see exactly what you need to do in order to apply for a grant. While following these guidelines and instructions does not guarantee you’ll get funding, it does increase the likelihood of getting approved.

If the guidelines provide a list of do’s and don’ts, take note. Funding agencies will have various requests for you that include things they’d like to see in your application and things they wouldn’t like to see.

There may also be a checklist for completed requirements. If that’s the case, you can use the checklist to track your progress and make sure you don’t miss anything. Budget your time to make sure you’ve got enough time to get everything together that is required of you before the deadline. You don’t want to rush. It can lead to mistakes, which will automatically disqualify you in most cases.

Similarly, if you don’t complete and submit the proposal by the listed due date, your application will automatically be denied. We can’t stress this enough—give yourself enough time!

You’ll also see in the guidelines that a grant proposal must include information submitted in a specific order. Make sure to do this, and follow the instructions for each section exactly. Funders will most likely reject your application if your proposal is not in the correct order.

There are additional requirements for proposals that can include submitting the proposal to a specific address or department, rules about how you can submit the application, and reporting leadership or major staffing changes after you’ve submitted your proposal.

Do your diligence and read the guidelines and instructions carefully. Grant proposal reviews can be the best way to learn what to expect. That said, there are some elements, or sections of information, seen across many different types of grant proposals. These can include:

• A cover sheet or letter of intent that allows the agency to estimate how many independent reviewers will be needed; it also helps the agency avoid potential conflicts of interest in the review
• A short executive summary, or “abstract” in the non-profit world, summarizing your grant proposal
• A table of contents; it should help the reviewer find what they need quickly and easily should they want to flip to a specific section
• A needs statement and problem statement describing the purpose of your project, the need you’re addressing, or problem you’re solving, and why the project is important
• A project description or narrative explaining the project you want to fund in greater detail; you can separate different ideas into sections to better explain each aspect of your project and review the expected outcomes; this description can sometimes be included in the executive summary
• A list of your goals; ideally you will pick SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timeline) goals
• A description of the methods you will use, in addition to project management plans and timeline, illustrating how you will achieve your goals and objectives
• A staffing list showing how you will staff your project
• A detailed budget explaining what the money will be used for
• A cover letter providing an introduction of yourself or your business as the grant seeker, in addition to a description of your ethos, professionalism, and proposed project or business goal

You will most likely need to include information about yourself and your business as well, including:

• Your business’s mission and history
• Your business’s financial health and stability
• Any additional support documents, usually in the form of appendices; additional records, endorsements, tax status information, personnel bios, letters of support, etc.

Including this information is not only important, it’s necessary. Without it, your application will be disqualified.

Remember, this isn’t the exact order for every grant proposal. Proposals vary from funder to funder, and each may ask for a different order that the information above should be included. It’s vital that you follow the grant’s instructions exactly and include everything that’s asked for.

Before You Start, Research

Before you start writing your grant proposal, you’ll want to research the grant or grants you are applying for and the organization to whom you are submitting your proposal. This is part of the pre-award phase, covered in more detail on grants.gov .

Also consider who your audience is, what the grant’s expectations are, and how you will achieve your goals if you secure funding. To properly prepare for your application, it’s important that you:

• Follow the steps for developing a grant proposal listed above; this means clearly defining what you want to do, why you want to do it, how you’ll do it, when you’ll do it, and who you’ll do it for—remember to be SMART when defining your goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.)
• Identify an awarding agency or organization that funds projects or goals like the one you have in mind and figure out if their goals align with your own.
• Identify a grant funding opportunity before you begin the application process; it’s important that you find a grant that matches your proposal and goals and a funder whose mission aligns with yours.
• Review the agency’s grant proposal guidelines, eligibility requirements, and instructions document to determine if you are eligible and have everything on hand that they’ll require.
• Register to apply for grants through websites like grants.gov and sbir.gov ; depending on the agency, you will have to go through several steps to register and may be required to complete different types of registration to receive all the necessary identification.
• Review any grant proposal samples you might have or can find in order to get a better understanding of what a good or bad proposal looks like.

Research will help you identify a grant you can actually apply for, an agency that will want to work with you, and a better feel of what the funder’s interests actually are. This will vary from funder to funder, but doing your research will help greatly.

How to Write a Small Business Grant Proposal

The grant writing process can be quite arduous. But, there are a variety of ways to approach it. The best way you can handle the writing process, in our experience, is to begin with great research, followed by developing an effective proposal that carefully follows all the instructions and guidelines a funding agency provides, including everything they ask for. It’s all about giving the information that is required, not pushing the information that you want.

After taking all the necessary steps, such as registering your business in the proper places, identifying a grant funding opportunity, and determining your eligibility, you’ll begin preparing your written application and developing your proposal.

Below we break down the basic approach to writing a small business grant proposal based on our own experience as a small business.

Keep in mind that this is a guide for you to learn how to write a proposal. We outline a general approach of how to write a small business grant proposal. It will help you be well-prepared to begin the writing process, but does not necessarily follow exactly how a funder will want you to put together your proposal. Remember to follow instructions carefully!

Be meticulous in your following of the proposal’s instructions. This means including all the necessary documentation, completing the required forms, and staying on top of deadlines.

Write Your Cover Letter

You can start by writing your cover letter. However, it may help to leave this till the end of your application, as you might have a clearer idea of the main parts of your proposal and their value.

That said, if you do start with your cover letter, make sure to keep it short but impactful—you need to capture the attention of the agency’s reviewers.

Say what you need without using too much fluff, being as direct as possible without missing the important parts. And make sure to connect your project and goals with the funding agency’s own. If you can make a connection between their mission, funds, and your proposed project, you will have a better chance of getting approval.

Write Your Executive Summary

Next, write your executive summary. This serves as an overview of why your organization wants the grant, what your funding needs are, and how you plan to follow through with the project. Be as engaging as possible, using short and clear sentences that concisely illustrate the main aspects of your proposal.

Introduce Your Business

You can introduce your business next. Share as much relevant information as you can about your infrastructure, history, mission, experience, etc.

Here you include a biography of key staff, your business track record (success stories), company goals, and philosophy; essentially, highlight your expertise.

Client recommendations, letters of thanks, feedback from customers and the general public are must-have things to write in a grant proposal.

Also include all valid industry certifications (ISO or Quality Certifications), licenses, and business and indemnity insurance details.

You need to show that your company or organization has the capacity and the ability to meet all deliverables from both an execution perspective but also meet all legal, safety, and quality obligations.

Write Your Needs & Problem Statements

Now, write your needs and problem statement. It should illustrate the problem you will solve and how the grant funds will help you do it. It will be important to convey the scope of the problem or need of addressing and what sets you apart from others trying to solve the same problem or need. It can be helpful to include any research you’ve done on this matter as well.

Don’t rush this section of the proposal. It’s a critical element. Craft your argument patiently, and make sure to use any supporting data and research you have to back up your argument and plan.

It’s important to keep the language simple as well, as there is a big chance the reviewer doesn’t have the same technical expertise you do. Keep jargon to a minimum, or fully explain what each term means, in order to keep things clear.

Write Your Project Description

Next, write your project description. Clearly explain your goals for the project, how you plan to achieve those goals, and how the grant funding will help. Stick to SMART objectives, ones that can be easily tracked and measured. Doing so will help you demonstrate your eventual successes to the grantor, an important part of the grant process later on.

When you explain how you plan to achieve your goals, it can help to include specific information about your project’s timeline, budget, staffing, the resources and community you’ll leverage, and why you’re in a strong position to tackle a problem or need. It can also help to explain how you will track your project and goals, evaluating your overall success.

Ideally, your project description provides a clear picture of your goals, how you will achieve those goals, what you plan to do with the funds, and how you will manage and measure your project’s progress. If you tie your goals into the funding agency’s mission or goal, you will build an even stronger case for your business.

Write a Detailed Budget

After that section, you will need to write about your budget. It’s critical that you provide a detailed project budget that outlines how you will use the funding and what your operational costs will be. This will also serve to explain your expenses and justify the amount of money you’re seeking.

Provide any financial documents you may have to back up your budget here, and try to stay within the funding limits the funding agency is offering. It’s important to neither overquote nor underquote yourself, because while you might secure the grant by underquoting, you may not walk away with enough funding for your project. Overquote and you may see your application rejected.

When we say provide a detailed budget, we mean it. Include information about all of the costs, whether they’re direct or indirect. This can include everything from personnel, materials and supplies, and equipment to travel costs, advertising, utilities, insurance, and more.

Remember to check your numbers. You want to ensure they’re accurate. Otherwise, your application might not make it through the review process. Simple errors like an incorrect decimal point or forgotten number can significantly distort your budget. If you need to, leverage a team member who is excellent with numbers.

Perform a Final Review & Have Your Team Help

After you’ve finished writing, attached all the necessary documentation, and completed the required forms, you need to review your application! Make sure you have:

• Followed all the instructions
• Stuck within the guidelines
• Included all the necessary documentation
• Completed the required forms
• Formatted your proposal correctly
• Eliminated simple spelling or math errors

It can help to have others review your application as well. They can bring a different perspective and fresh eyes to the proposal and catch things you may have missed. In fact, it can help to have as many people you trust review the proposal. When you’re confident there are no errors, it’s time to submit your proposal.

Properly Submit & Track Your Application

Depending on the funding agency you’re submitting your application to, there will be different instructions for submitting. Figuring out what these submission processes look like can sound a little daunting, but each group will provide clear instructions somewhere on their website on how to properly submit your proposal.

It will be important that, once you submit the application, you make sure to track it to address any errors that are flagged and view the assembled application to ensure it is 100% accurate.

Once you’ve submitted, you can check online that your application has all the correct information and hasn’t been flagged for errors. After making sure your proposal wasn’t flagged, all you can do is wait for a response from the funding agency.

If the review process goes well, you may be asked to provide additional information. The way this request is handled can vary from department to department. For example, the NIH uses the Just-in-Time (JIT) process, located in its eRA Commons .

If you’re selected to receive funding, you’ll be sent a notice that you have been selected for the award! In the case of the NIH and the SBIR/STTR programs, you’ll receive a Notice of Award (NoA) , the official grant award document the department uses to notify an awardee the grant has been made. From there, you will be able to access more information on how to manage the award, and what the post-award process and requirements entail.

In addition, you will gain access to a wide number of agency resources and programs, helping you maximize the benefits of your grant funding.

While the approval rating for grants has increased through 2022, grant funding is highly competitive, and there is a big chance your proposal will be rejected. Don’t give up! It’s important that you keep trying. If the review does not go well, you will be able to reach out to the program official to discuss next steps. You can review feedback, address the issues, and resubmit your application .

12 Tips for Writing A Successful Business Grant Proposal

Below are steps to writing award-winning grants that you can use to improve your proposal, potentially increasing your chances at writing a small business grant application that will get approved.

Develop a Game Plan

Create a game plan for where you’re headed. Don’t dive into effort without knowing exactly what you’re doing. You’re going to want some mode of operation to complete the grant writing process, and a game plan can help you do that. In fact, you’re already using a game plan right now: learning how to write grant proposals in an effective way.

Don’t Rush & Pay Attention to the Agency’s Goals

First and foremost, don’t rush your writing. Grant applications can be long and grueling, and it can be easy to make mistakes if you try to rush through the grant proposal writing process.

Hopefully you start early enough so that you can take your time writing before the deadline gets closer. Making mistakes can make it take even longer to complete your proposal, and will lead to a rejection.

Taking your time will undoubtedly make it easier to craft your story and proposal, leading to a more developed proposal narrative and project description before you start writing grant applications. Having a strong story and a detailed proposal will help you stand apart from other grant applicants, clearly explaining the what, why, and how of your proposal.

Use Rich Media When You Can

Use pictures, charts, and graphics if permitted. Using rich media can help your proposal come to life and convey important points in different ways. While this may be harder to do with certain applications, look for instances where you can add visuals.

Research Prior Winners

If there are previous grant winners for the specific grant you’re applying for, review their business and the project. There may be a connection or similarity between your business and a prior winner that you can integrate into your proposal.

Seeing what kinds of businesses are awarded a certain grant can help you narrow down if your business is a good fit, what you could do to increase your chances, and ultimately help you save time by not applying to a grant you’re unlikely to land.

Search Through Local Grants First

It might be easier to secure a local grant than a federal grant offered nationwide. While federal grants can be more appealing—the award is typically larger—local grants are sometimes less competitive. Start your search by looking at locally offered grants, and expand your search as you rule out grants you might be able to apply for through your city, the state and regional levels.

Apply for Grants of All Sizes

In addition to searching for local grants first, you should also pay attention to funding opportunities of all sizes. Smaller grants can sometimes be easier to secure, and doing so can even make your business more appealing to agencies offering larger grant funds. Showing the support you’ve already received can make you more attractive to grantors.

Use a Team Approach

It’s often helpful and more effective to assemble a team to write your proposal. Ideally you can include people who have review proposals before or someone who has experience as an editor. Your choices do not have to be limited to your business, you can find people outside your organization to help with the process.

Approach The Writing Process Like a Reviewer

It can help to think about your grant proposal like a peer reviewer, rather than a business owner. The funding agencies you’ll send your applications to always have long-term organizational goals and objectives that you will want to appeal to. If you can set your proposal apart from others by showing how your use of the grant funds will directly align with the funding agency’s mission, you may stand a better chance at securing approval.

Provide Up-To-Date Information & Complete All Requests

Provide relevant up-to-date information. If you provide out-of-date information, you will come across as dated. This relates to completing all requests. Remember to give the funder 100% of what they ask for. This means following instructions exactly. You want to provide the information they need, not push your information on them.

Include an Evaluation

Include an evaluation that clarifies how you will evaluate your project or program’s performance. Determine a way to evaluate the project you’ve just received funds before. Will it be internal or external? Funding agencies typically look at evaluations very favorably.

Try, Try, Try Again

Even people who have a lot of experience writing grant proposals face rejection. In fact, most applicants face rejection more than approval. That said, the grant writing process can be highly productive. You get to dial in your objectives, methodology, and more, clearly defining what problem you’re addressing, how you will achieve your objectives, and more.

Don’t let rejection stop you. Try again and incorporate whatever feedback you can get a hold of into your next proposal.

Think About Hiring a Grant Writer

It’s no secret that grant writing can be difficult. If it’s proving too difficult or time-consuming, consider hiring a grant writer to help you complete and submit your proposal. Although these professionals can be expensive to hire, it may be worth the money in the long term.

The writer will likely know the type of language to use to make your application stand out in addition to the correct formatting. Their expertise in grant writing can make the process much quicker as well.

What Makes a Good Proposal?

A good small business grant proposal has a number of identifiable characteristics. None of which are very surprising:

• Easy to understand; it doesn’t need to be sophisticated, it needs to be understandable
• Proposes something that is doable within a certain timeframe
• Clear and concise
• Details what will be done, when it will be done, and how it will be done
• Tells a compelling and exciting story; what led up to your business’s decision to go in this direction, and what benefits people will experience
• Has excellent flow and continuity
• Visually appealing
• Engages the reader and provides social proof

If your proposal has all of these characteristics, it doesn’t guarantee you will get approved. But, it does increase the likelihood you will secure the funding you need. Having a well-written and visually appealing proposal, in addition to compelling research and data, is essential.

What Makes a Bad Proposal?

Sure enough, bad grant proposals have some common traits as well. These include:

• Lacks clarity; make sure the funder knows what you’re proposing to do
• Loaded with errors; if you can’t take care of proposal, how will you treat the money you’re provided
• Unrealistic expectations
• No clear outcomes
• Lack of alignment; doesn’t match up with funder’s goals and how the funder wants to see the world
• Bores the reader; you want the proposal to excite the reader by proposing a brighter future

Bad writing, no matter the context, is just that: bad writing! Even if you believe your proposed project has all the marks of a winner, you will still need to make sure your grant proposal is well-written and thought out to help stand out from all the other applicants and make it easier for peer reviewers to understand your proposal.

Types of Grant Proposals & When to Use Them

There are several types of grants small business owners can apply for. Your eligibility for each type will depend on a number of factors. When to use each type will vary based on your proposed project and goals as well.

Federal Grants

Federal grants are a type of government grant or economic aid the US government provides from the funds made available through the general federal revenue. The government gives grants to stimulate the economy and draws from the U.S. general federal revenue. Grants can be funds for a portion of a certain project or organizational costs, or include complete funding for a project or research.

There are more than 1,000 different grant programs available to businesses and individuals that qualify, distributed by 26 grant-specific agencies across 21 distinct categories.

State Grants

State grants are need-based, state-specific awards that usually provide a smaller amount of funds than federal grants. As they are state-specific, there is often less competition, making them more attainable for small businesses. While they are smaller than a federal grant, state grants can provide the boost an organization needs to carry a project or program further, and demonstrate the project’s attractiveness to other granting agencies.

Local Grants

Local grants are awards issued by a city, county, or township, or any other local government department or agency. that stimulate the economy directly around them. Applicants are only eligible for local grants if they meet specific requirements, the most obvious being whether or not the county or city deems that the business is part of that area. This is typically true if the organization provides services to the city and its residents.

Corporate Grants

A corporate grant comes directly from a major corporation. Like federal grants, corporate grants will have various requirements, provide different amounts of funding, and be suited for specific or broad types of business or research. Companies generally set aside capital at the beginning of the fiscal year and host competitions to distribute the funds to qualified businesses.

Other Types of Grants: Nonprofits

In addition to the grants dedicated to for-profit businesses, there are four types of non-profit grants. These are dedicated to and designed for non-profit organizations and businesses.

It may not apply to you and your business, but it’s worth mentioning. The four types include: competitive grants, continuation grants, pass-through grants, and formula grants.

Competitive Grants

Nonprofits, universities, colleges, K-12 schools, and government organizations can apply for competitive grants. Occasionally, a small business may be eligible to apply as well. Competitive grants, like any grant, are submitted for approval and reviewed by a team of reviewers who make a decision to fund the proposed project or not.

Competitive grants simply mean the grant application is competitive and involves an approval process that is performed by a committee or board of directors, who base their decision on different criteria. This also means the grants are discretionary, and do not need to be awarded.

Formula Grants

Formula grants are non-competitive, and are typically awarded to support larger programs. Like a competitive grant, formula grants award funds that are distributed to businesses and organizations based on meeting specific criteria. Unlike a competitive grant, these awards are distributed to applicants based on a statistical formula and overseen by a legislative body.

All applicants that meet the criteria will receive funding, but the amount is based on certain benchmarks. This means formula grants are always awarded. Awardees can include states, local governments, territories, and other types of government organizations.

From there, states may be able to allocate money to organizations and businesses for a specific activity. The amount the awardee distributes can be based on the numbers an organization serves or the number of residents in the community.

Pass-through Grants

Like federal, state, and local grants, pass-through grants come from the federal government. The funding is distributed to a state or local government, who then passes on the funding to different organizations, institutions, and businesses. Eligible applicants can apply to states or municipalities for federal funds to stimulate the local economy and make an impact in a specific community or area.

Continuation Grants

Non-profit organizations can use continuation grants to renew a previously awarded grant for an additional amount of time. Without a continuation grant, the funding for the project would expire. These grant opportunities are also an opportunity for the awardee and funder to foster a relationship. While continuation grants are discretionary and mostly available to existing awardees, new applicants may be considered.

How to Find Grants for Small Businesses

There are different databases available online that you can access to search for various small business grants. Some are free, while others require a subscription.

Below we review government grant databases on the federal, state, and local levels, as well as corporate grants you can apply for and the databases you can use to search for private grants.

Federal Small Business Grants & Databases

Government agencies are among the biggest distributors of business grants, supporting a range of enterprises from environmental conservation to child care services. Applying may seem intimidating, but federal grants are great opportunities for small-business owners looking to grow.

Grants.gov allows you to search for grants based on category, eligibility, agency, and funding instrument type. It lists all of the grant opportunities currently available across more than a thousand different programs as well as closed and archived opportunities. It aims to simplify the grant search and application process.

SAM.gov is an official US government website. It is a central database for everyone who makes, receives, and manages federal grants and awards. Government contractors can use SAM, short for Systems for Award Management, to search for grants and contracts and view contract opportunity reports . To use the site and do business with the US government, you need to register your business. Learn more about the website’s requirements and features using its  help center .

USDA Biotechnology Risk Assessment Research Grants

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) offers a wide range of grant programs for agriculture- and agriculture science-based research and business initiatives. One such program,  the Biotechnology Risk Assessment Research Grants (BRAG) program , provides funding to support research that will help regulatory agencies make “science-based decisions about the effects of introducing into the environment genetically engineered organisms (GE).” This includes a wide range of organisms, from plants, microorganisms, fish, and birds to mammals and other animals.

Businesses can view BRAG’s Request for Applications (RFA) to learn more about the grants program, funding opportunity, award information, eligibility information, and more. Businesses can also apply for a grant directly on the agency’s website.

USDA Rural Business Development Grants

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees and manages the Rural Business Development Grant program . It provides funding to strengthen and grow small businesses throughout rural communities.

In order to qualify for funding, businesses cannot have more than 50 new employees. Additionally, the business must have less than $1 million in gross revenue. It needs to also be located in an eligible rural area . Grant proposals are accepted only once per year through the local or state USDA Rural Development offices.

SBIR/STTR Programs

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs enable US-based, for-profit small businesses to become involved in federal research & development. The STTR also includes a partnership between the small business and nonprofit research institutions to formally collaborate in Phase I and Phase II.

These programs include a searchable solicitations database you can explore to find potential funding opportunities. These contract opportunities are available through different funding agencies, including the NIH, NSF, and more:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has a funding database that allows researchers to search for different types of grants, contracts, and even programs that help repay loans. There is also research training and career development available. You can subscribe to their weekly email newsletter that summarizes the funding opportunities posted each week and stay up to date with what solicitations are currently open.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has an opportunities database that allows you to filter their opportunities according to different factors like award type, directorate, division, and education level. The database lists current, available opportunities with their respective due dates.

However, you can find the agency’s archived funding opportunities on its website as well. Reviewing the archived listings can give you a better idea of what the NSF has funded in the past, what they may fund in the future, and whether or not any of it applies to your R&D.

The US Department of Energy (DOE) lists funding opportunity announcements (FOAs) on their website according to offices within the department. You can search through its database based on program, fiscal year, and post date or close date. Additionally, the DOE lists Open Lab Announcements and Closed Lab Announcements as well.  

Through the Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP), the US Department of Defense (DOD) offers a number of grants, contracts, and funding opportunities for organizations and small businesses performing research and development.

OSBP manages a number of DOD programs, from the Mentor Protege Program and Indian Incentive Program to DOD small business program funding, market research, procurement goals, and contracting processes and activities. You can explore the various programs managed by OSBP and search for contract or grant opportunities on its website. These opportunities are mostly applicable to small businesses interested in commercializing their R&D.

State & Regional Small Business Grants & Databases

Economic development administration.

The Economic Development Administration (EDA) is an agency overseen by the Department of Commerce (DOC). It provides grants, resources and technical assistance to communities based on local business needs and conditions in order to stimulate and support economic growth and development while promoting entrepreneurship.

You can search the site for current and previous funding opportunities spread across the agency’s various programs. Additionally, you can search the economic development directory for regional offices and local resources.

State Business Incentives Database

The State Business Incentives Database is a database created by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) . With close to 2,000 programs from around the US, the database gives business owners, economic developers, business development professionals, and economic researchers a place to search for and compare various incentive programs.

Its site includes a map feature you can use to search for grants based on location, and provides information on tax credits and exemptions. To use the site, you must have an account. However, accounts are only available to members of C2ER.

California Grants Portal

The California Grants Portal was developed by the California State Library. It provides a central location for state grant opportunities, allowing state grant-making agencies to add and update their award information, and for grant seekers to search the database for opportunities. This makes it possible for all state grant opportunities to be searchable online.

Each listed grant includes a summary of what is needed to apply and how, along with links that businesses and organizations can follow to learn more. To the same effect, the California Grants Portal site includes an FAQ section .

State Trade Expansion Program

The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) , provides state and territory governments with funding to distribute to small businesses with export development.

Supported by the SBA, STEP helps small businesses cover the costs to start or expand into international markets. Funding and eligibility requirements vary based on your state, but the money can be used to participate in a variety of business activities.

California Office of the Small Business Advocate

The California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) supports economic growth and development in California, ensuring California-based small businesses and startups have the support and resources needed to search for programs and understand regulations.

CalOSBA’s many funding programs include the California Microbusiness COVID-19 Relief Grant Program, California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program, California Dream Fund, and more.

Minority Business Development Agency Centers

The Minority Business Development Agency Centers (MBDA) is a nationally ran network of business development centers that support the growth and promotion of minority-owned small businesses. This includes helping businesses secure funding and contracts and compete in emerging markets.

Search for your local MBDA center and programs to apply for various types of funding, including state and local business grants and loans. The agency also typically holds a small-business grant competition annually. You can find contest updates on MBDA’s website.

Corporate/Foundation Small Business Grants & Databases

Many corporations and larger companies offer nonprofit and small-business grants. While some corporations work solely with nonprofits, others also provide funding to for-profit small businesses.

GrantWatch is a grant listing directory that currently features more than 28,000 grants, funding opportunities, awards, and archived grants—some of the archived grants will become available again as well. These grants come from a wide variety of sources: corporations, foundations, and government agencies on the federal, state, and local levels.

While GrantWatch can be an excellent database to search for grants , it does require that you become a member. With the free account, you gain access to a number of features and can search for grants using different dimensions, such as location and grant type.

However, if you want to get highly granular with your searches, access complete grant information, and access direct links to Requests for Proposals (RFPs) in order to apply, you’ll need to sign up for a paid account. The website also provides a wide range of resources, news, and more.

Sloan Foundation

The Sloan Foundation offers grants that support original research and education focused on science, technology, engineering, and more. The foundation’s funds are provided through the accumulated wealth of Alfred P. Sloan, and its mission is to use its funds and grantmaking abilities in the service of the public good.

The foundation selects projects to fund based on proposals submitted by both individuals and teams with original and innovative ideas. It is most interested in projects that have an expected return to society, show strong methodological characteristics, and do not yet have wide access to funding through government agencies, the private sector, or other foundations.

You can learn about the foundation’s grants , its grantmaking strategy, what it doesn’t fund, its grant application process, and more on its website. It also provides a searchable grants database you can use to see what’s currently available and archived.

GrantForward

GrantForward is a funding opportunity database and recommendation service created by academics for researchers. You can search for grants using a specific keyword, however, in order to get complete use of the site and additional searches, you’ll need to create an account. Free trials are available.

GrantForward uses a search algorithm alongside a team of specialists to continuously add new and up-to-date funding opportunities to its database, making sure your searches are as relevant and current as possible. It also provides search filters that make it easy to quickly find a funding opportunity that fits your needs.

The database includes a wide range of grant types you can search through, from fellowships to post-doctoral to equipment, facility, and organization grants. In addition to searching for grants, you can find pre-solicitations and awarded projects as well. However, you’ll need an account to complete these searches.

Instrumentl

Nonprofits and professional grant writing consultants rely on Instrumentl to match with the right funders, identify trends, and track and manage grants.

While Instrumentl works most closely with nonprofits, helping match grant writers with private and corporate grants their organizations can use to achieve specific goals, it also provides an extensive database for other opportunities. This includes federal and state grant funding opportunities.

You can search the website’s grant database by focus area, location, or foundation . In addition to its databases, you can leverage Instrumentl’s educational resources to better understand how to use Instrumentl, improve your grant writing, and more.

Visa Everywhere Initiative

The Visa Everywhere Initiative is a grant competition that offers funding to tech-forward startups across five different regions around the globe. Applicants must show how they’ve developed a product or service that creatively involves Visa’s products.

Visa will select the top five finalists in each region — and these businesses will move forward to a global finals event. The overall winner of the competition is awarded a $100,000 small-business grant. Additional grants are awarded to second- and third-place finalists, audience favorites, as well as regional and local winners.

FedEx Small Business Grant

FedEx’s annual grant competition awards more than $250,000 to 10 small businesses. This includes $4,000 in FedEx print and business services and a $50,000 grant to its three grand prize winners. While the 2022 contest has closed, it opens up again each year. Dates are posted to the company’s website once they are finalized.

The FedEx small business grant, as one would expect, is available to US-based, for-profit small businesses that have been in operation for a minimum of six months. Businesses can have no more than 99 employees. You can visit the site’s FAQs to learn more about eligibility requirements and more.

fundsforNGOs

fundsforNGO provides a wide range of resources and services for countless industries . It works to improve access to resources and enable a more sustainable environment. The organization accomplishes this by researching, developing, and curating content that supports the growth and sustainability of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and individuals working specifically in poverty alleviation and sustainable development.

Its many features include business intelligence, training, publications, and networking. However, most importantly for you, it also provides searchable databases of grants, donors, and proposals aimed to help NGOs find the information they need and track funding opportunities. In addition to its databases, fundsforNGOs also assists with grant writing, helping you plan and create your proposals.

Additional Resources

There are additional resources you can rely on to help with your search for grant funding. This includes various organizations that provide free help for your business. Many sources you can find through sba.gov and sbir.gov, however, you can also review the agencies below.

Small Business Development Centers

Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) offer support to small businesses and entrepreneurs. There are local, regional, state, and national offices located across the country, so it can help to find one closest to you.

Some SBDCs are associated with local universities or a state’s economic development agency, as well, and can help connect you with small business grants, federal grants, and business financing opportunities. SBDCs generally offer training, counseling, and technical assistance in addition to support with grant funding.

For example, an SBDC can usually help you create a compelling business plan and pitch for your business, and help you understand how you’ll want to use the grant money you’re seeking out.

This also includes navigating the grant process. SBDC advisors have a lot of visibility locally and can help connect you with small business grants.

SCORE is a nonprofit organization supported by the SBA. It provides free entrepreneurship training, tools, and mentorship to US-based small business owners. Like SBDCs, SCORE is a free online resource entrepreneurs can access when they need help.

You can use SCORE to connect with a wide range of experts based on zip code for free. You can also request a match, search for a business mentor, or find your local chapter to get the advice or expertise you’re looking for. The SCORE mentor you’re matched with will hopefully be able to identify local grant opportunities for you and review your pitch or proposal to ensure it’s compelling and well-written.

In addition to mentorship, you can access a variety of workshops online and in-person. Browse through SCORE’s library of webinars , on-demand courses , and local workshops to find a class that can help you improve. Live classes are also available if you can’t attend workshops in person.

Grant Resources Center

The Grants Resource Center (GRC) is part of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. This subscription service helps college/university offices secure more funding from federal and private groups.

It provides publications on a fixed schedule, management resources , funding resources , and a database where you can search for grants . Searching for a grant requires an account with GRC.

Procurement Technical Assistance Centers

P rocurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) provide assistance to businesses looking to work with the US government, Department of Defense, and other federal, state, and local government agencies. Most of the assistance provided by your local PTAC is free.

If you need to determine if your business is ready for government contracting, eligible for small business certifications, register in the correct place to begin the process, or assistance with researching past contract opportunities, then your local PTAC can help. You can search the SBA PTAC database to find a center near you.

You can also work with a procurement center representative (PCR) if you need help securing government contracts. Because PCRs are able to see government procurement strategies before they’re announced, they are in a good position to help you in touch with a small business opportunity.

Additionally, PCRs also help carry out SBA policies and programs, assist small businesses with payment issues, conduct market research, and provide counseling with the contracting process.

Small Business Grant Proposal Templates

There are many free online grant proposal templates to choose from. A template can help you put together a visually appealing proposal or give you an idea of how to format your own proposal.

We suggest you use a template as a study guide or reference point rather than your actual proposal only because the grant you are applying for may require different formatting or information. That said, here are some resources that provide small business grant proposal templates:

• PandaDoc grant proposal template
• Jot Form grant proposal PDF templates
• Wise free grant proposal template
• Sample.net small business grant proposals in PDF
• Technical Writer HQ grant writing templates
• SampleTemplates grant proposal samples & small business grant proposal templates
• Template.net grant proposal word templates

Conclusion: Applying For a Small Business Grant With Confidence

As a small business owner, things can feel pretty daunting at times. Being able to cover costs, push ahead on new programs or initiatives, and keep everything going requires significant cash flow. Luckily, there are a number of grant funding sources available to small businesses in the US.

Knowing what the grant writing process looks like and how to write a grant proposal before you get started can be a great help, reducing the amount of time, energy, and effort required to put together a winning grant proposal. This guide can serve as the first step toward building the knowledge and confidence needed when applying for a grant, and will make it easier to secure the funding you need to bring your idea to light.

Excedr has worked with a number of clients who secured grant funding in order to fund research and development, specific business initiatives, and provide services to the communities around them.

In some cases, that grant funding was available to use to lease lab equipment. By leasing the lab equipment they needed, our clients were able to extend their funding and save more for their research and development efforts.

In other cases, the grant funding was able to cover a client’s R&D or business costs, freeing up more room in their budget for equipment procurement and other initiatives.

Rather than put all that extra money into purchasing a few pieces of equipment, our clients leased instead, saving money on upfront costs and spreading out payments via manageable and consistent payments. If you’re interested in learning more about our leasing program , our team will be happy to provide you with more details. Contact us and let us know how we can help with your leasing needs.

Good luck on your grant writing journey. Securing grant funding can be an amazing moment and opportunity to accomplish great things!

Everything that you need to know to start your own business. From business ideas to researching the competition.

Practical and real-world advice on how to run your business — from managing employees to keeping the books.

Our best expert advice on how to grow your business — from attracting new customers to keeping existing customers happy and having the capital to do it.

Entrepreneurs and industry leaders share their best advice on how to take your company to the next level.

• Business Ideas
• Human Resources
• Business Financing
• Growth Studio
• Ask the Board

Looking for your local chamber?

Interested in partnering with us?

Start » strategy, how to write a grant application for your organization.

Writing a strong grant application can help your organization receive the funding it needs to fulfill its mission. These tips will help you get started.

For many organizations, grant writing is the most important component of their entire fundraising strategy. In fact, a single grant application can make or break your organization, so if you’re trying to secure funding for your nonprofit, community organization or research group, it’s important to learn how to write a strong, successful proposal. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

[ Read more: 22 Grants, Loans and Programs to Benefit Your Small Business ]

What to consider before writing a grant application

The best grant proposals are clear, organized documents that illustrate why your organization should receive funds from the grantor. That’s why it’s a good idea to plan in advance and get some things in order. Here are three things to know or accomplish before you start writing your proposal:

• Your audience. First and foremost, get to know the institution that is offering the grant. Consider its goals, values and objectives. Understanding these elements will later help you demonstrate how and why your organization is a good fit.
• The minimum requirements. Research the eligibility expectations for each specific grantor and make sure you meet the minimum requirements. If you find that your organization does not meet these requirements, contact the grantor directly to discuss your options.
• Your organization’s credibility. Compile a list of testimonials, recommendations, data sets and success stories to include with your application. Every grantor is different, but they all want to know their money is being used wisely.

Elements of a grant proposal

Grant applications are organized in specific sections that help the reviewer parse through information quickly and find potential grantees. Here are the main elements to include in a grant proposal:

• Cover letter. Some, but not all, granting organizations ask that you include a cover letter to introduce yourself. This section should establish why you are seeking the available grant, describe your organization or project and illustrate your professionalism.
• Executive summary. Also known as an abstract or overview, the executive summary should state the most important information from the entire proposal. This section should be concise, yet fully describe your goals, what steps you will take, why you need funding and how you will measure progress. It is often best practice to write this section last.
• Needs assessment. The needs assessment, also known as the statement of need, problem statement or literature overview, defines the lack in resources, information or opportunities that you are trying to solve. Include as much data and research as possible and show how your organization is the key link between the problem and the solution.
• Project description. Also known as the project narrative, this section states how you will address the problems described in the needs assessment. The description should include your goals , your projected timeline, how you will measure progress and how you will recognize success. Focus on the impact your work will have on the given issue.
• Budget. This section should clarify why you are asking for funding. State how each dollar will be spent, and illustrate how the cost of labor, materials or equipment is required to fulfill your mission.
• Supplemental documentation. Finally, you may need to provide an appendix with all the supporting materials you’ve included in your application. This may include additional data, business records, employment information, letters of reference, organizational qualifications and so on.

[ Read more: How to Get a Grant to Start a Business ]

It’s important to remember that there are so many factors beyond a nonprofit’s control that influence decision-making...

Arianna Maysonave, Director of Development at Herbicide-Free Campus

4 tips for writing a grant application

• Stick to your mission. It’s not uncommon for inexperienced grant writers to stretch their application too far and create a weak proposal. “Write grants based on your mission,” said Lauren Balkan, Deputy Director of Wellspring Center for Prevention . “Stay true to your mission and then be creative with how to meet that mission within the scope of the grant funding.”
• Build your network. Even if you’re not actively writing a grant application, start meeting with grantors to build a professional relationship. Networking will help you better understand the mission, values and objectives of specific granting organizations, which will give you a head start when you are ready to prepare a proposal. “Relationship building is the number one key to success in securing a grant,” said Arianna Maysonave, Director of Development at Herbicide-Free Campus . “Identify the interest of the grantor long before their grant deadline, and begin connecting with relevant partners months or even years before you expect to receive a grant.”
• Expect to receive rejection letters. Learning how to craft solid grant applications takes time and experience. If your organization doesn’t earn a grant, use it as a learning opportunity. “It’s important to remember that there are so many factors beyond a nonprofit’s control that influence decision-making,” said Maysonave. “Do your best and don’t be afraid to follow up and ask why you weren’t chosen.”
• Learn from your community. Finally, learn from other organizations within your community or industry to better understand what funders are looking for. “Connect to many community groups where organizations come together,” Balkan said. “Workgroups or committees usually provide information about possible funding opportunities, [so] pay attention when similar organizations are talking about their funding and where they get it.”

CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.

Follow us on Instagram for more expert tips & business owners’ stories.

CO—is committed to helping you start, run and grow your small business. Learn more about the benefits of small business membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, here .

Subscribe to our newsletter, Midnight Oil

Expert business advice, news, and trends, delivered weekly

By signing up you agree to the CO— Privacy Policy. You can opt out anytime.

For more business strategies

How startups contribute to innovation in emerging industries, how entrepreneurs can find a business mentor, 5 business metrics you should analyze every year.

By continuing on our website, you agree to our use of cookies for statistical and personalisation purposes. Know More

Welcome to CO—

Designed for business owners, CO— is a site that connects like minds and delivers actionable insights for next-level growth.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce 1615 H Street, NW Washington, DC 20062

Social links

Looking for local chamber, stay in touch.

How to Write a Grant Proposal for a Small Business

Like a business plan, it is a challenge to complete a winning grant proposal, but if you are passionate about your business, then it is a small hurdle to overcome. Each grant is different in its requirements, but most of them ask for the same basic things as follows.

What is a Grant Proposal?

A grant proposal is a formal written request that someone, typically a potential donor willing to give grant money to an organization or cause based on merit, gives you financial assistance. There are many kinds of small business grants: for social service organizations by local and state government agencies and private organizations, for research projects and public health initiatives, and even for business ventures.  

Steps To Write a Grant Proposal for Small Business

Below are the steps to guide you through the process:

1. Research Grant Opportunities:

Start by researching available grant opportunities that align with your small business’s industry, goals, and needs. Look for grants from government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private foundations that support businesses like yours.

2. Read Guidelines and Requirements:

Once you’ve identified potential grants, thoroughly read and understand their guidelines and requirements. Each grant may have specific eligibility criteria, funding amounts, application formats, and deadlines.

3. Define Your Project or Business Need:

Clearly articulate the purpose of your grant proposal. Describe the project or business need that the grant will support and how it aligns with your company’s mission and objectives.

4. Craft a Compelling Executive Summary:

Write an engaging executive summary that succinctly summarizes your grant proposal. This section should highlight the most critical points of your project, emphasizing its significance and potential impact.

5. Outline Project Goals and Objectives:

Outline the specific goals and objectives of your project. Clearly state what you aim to achieve through the grant funding and how it will benefit your small business and the community.

6. Explain the Methodology:

Detail the methods and strategies you plan to use to accomplish your project goals. Provide a step-by-step explanation of how you will execute the project and measure its success.

7. Create a Budget:

Develop a detailed budget for your project, including all the expenses you anticipate. Be thorough and realistic in your estimates. Some grants may have specific budget formats that you must follow.

8. Demonstrate Sustainability:

Show how your small business plans to sustain the project’s impact beyond the grant period. Grant providers often look for initiatives that can continue making a difference even after the funding ends.

9. Include a Strong Organizational Profile:

Highlight your small business’s history, achievements, and expertise in the field. Demonstrate your business’s capability to successfully implement the proposed project.

10. Emphasize the Impact:

Clearly communicate the potential positive impact of your project on your small business, the community, or the industry. Use data and evidence to support your claims.

11. Review and Edit:

Go through your grant proposal multiple times to check for errors, consistency, and clarity. Consider having someone else review it as well to get a fresh perspective.

12. Submit the Proposal on Time:

Submit your grant proposal before the deadline. Late submissions are generally not accepted, so make sure you allow enough time for any unforeseen delays.

13. Follow Up:

After submitting the proposal, follow up with the grant provider if you don’t receive a response within the expected timeframe. Some grants may have a specific review process, and it’s essential to stay informed.

Why Write a Grant Proposal?

Grant funding can be a great way to get the money you need to start or expand your business. They are typically less restrictive than small business loans, and the application process is usually simpler. In addition, if your grant proposal is accepted, you may have access to other resources such as mentorship, networking opportunities, and workshops.

Who Can Apply For a Grant?

Not every cause will be eligible for grant funding. Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the grant proposal guidelines, which means that they must fit into a certain category.

For example, an organization offering free job training to people who are physically or mentally disabled would be instantly eligible for grants by many granting agencies if it could prove its work ethic, validity, and financial stability. However, a new business start-up would not be as easily funded, since it is difficult to judge the potential success or failure of a company that has yet to go into operation.

What Are the Requirements?

Every grant proposal has different requirements, but most ask for the same basic information. These typically include:

• The organization’s history and mission
• What the grant money will be used for
• A detailed budget
• The impact the grant will have
• The organization’s financial stability
• A cover letter

It is important that your plan clearly states the specific purposes for which grant funds were requested, along with all the details about how they will be used and how much money will be required. Your proposal should also contain some personal information about yourself or your company, as well as your contact information.

What is the Grant Proposal Process?

• Your first step is to identify the grant you want to apply for and read the guidelines carefully.
• Gather all the necessary information – this will typically include your business plan, financial statements, resumes, and letters of recommendation.
• Complete the grant application and make sure you submit everything on time.
• Wait to hear back – if you are successful, congratulations! If not, don’t be discouraged and reapply the next year.

Types of Small Business Grants Available

There are many different types of grants that small businesses can apply for. The most common are federal grants, state grants, and local grants.

Federal Grants : These grants are awarded by the United States government to eligible organizations and individuals to support specific programs and projects. There are many different types of federal grants, and the application process is typically very competitive.

State Grants : State grants are awarded by state governments to eligible organizations and individuals to support specific programs and projects. The grant application process for state grants is typically less competitive than for grants from the federal government, but the awards are typically smaller in size.

Local Grants : Local grants are awarded by local governments to eligible organizations and individuals to support specific programs and projects. These grants typically have less stringent qualifications than federal or state grants, but the application process is typically more intensive due to the smaller number of available funds.

How Can I Find Grants for My Business?

There are many ways you can find grants for your business. The first step is to conduct an internet search for “grants for small businesses.” This will yield a variety of results, including government websites, private grant-making organizations, and online directories.

The next step is to identify which grants are best suited for your business. The most important factor to consider is the eligibility criteria of the grant. Each grant has its own set of qualifications, so take the time to review these guidelines carefully.

The final step is to complete and submit your grant application form before the deadline has passed. Although it may seem intimidating, completing a grant requires only a few hours of work and can have substantial benefits for your business down the road.

How to Write a Grant Letter for Small Business?

Although there is no set standard for a successful grant proposal, it usually includes a combination of all or most of the same elements. Here are some tips for writing a grant proposal for your nonprofit or small business.

To write an effective grant proposal, you should include the following elements:

Cover Letter

Table of contents, executive summary.

• Needs Statement & Problem Statement

Project Description

• Methods, Project Management Plans & Timelines

A good cover letter introduces the grantor to the business and extols its virtues about why the business is ideal for the grant. Make sure to cater to the specific grant and not speak in generalities as if you are applying to every financing source under the sun (even if you are).

This section helps the grantor flip right through to the specific section he wants to see. Make the grantor’s life easier and display your professionalism and courtesy at the same time. Our non-profit business plan template includes each of the items to include in your Table of Contents.

The executive summary of a document summarizes the rest of it. In this document, you should pinpoint the main reasons the grant is needed and how it will solve the problems of the grantee. The amount of small business funding, as well as information about the venture, should also be listed. Use this part of the document to convince the grantor that funding your business is the greatest idea ever and they’ll continue reading the rest of the proposal.

Needs Statement & Problem Statement

In this section of the document, detail the needs and problems that the project or venture is fulfilling and solving. Conduct research and show that you have done your homework. Answer key questions: What is the scope of the problem? What will your business do that someone hasn’t or can’t easily do in the future? Show that you fill a void in the market and that you need the grant to do so. Be concise and to the point.

The project description section is the main section of the small business grant proposal. This section is written best by separating different issues and ideas into separate sections. This will make it easier for you to write the section by focusing on one idea at a time and make it easier on the reader as well since the section won’t jump all over the place.

Goals & Objectives

The project goals section doesn’t list anything in intense detail but gives the reader an idea of what the potential grantee is trying to achieve.

The objectives section includes measurable aspirations of the venture such as achieving a hold of a certain percentage of the estimated market. Break down objectives in a bulleted list so it’s easier to read.

Methods, Project Management Plans, & Timelines

This section will show the reader how objectives will be achieved. The methods, plans, and timeline of implementation for those methods and plans will also be shown. Visual timelines are best to show the reader exactly where everything fits into the scheme of things as well as when. This section shows the reader you not only have goals and objectives but that you also know how to achieve them using a detailed well thought out plan.

Many government grants will have stringent personnel requirements because they want you to create employment with the money that they are giving you. If the grant needs specific information or provisions regarding personnel, make sure your personnel planning matches those requirements. Also, make sure that your objectives match personnel planning. Aggressive objectives might have to be matched with substantial growth in employment in certain industries.

The process of writing a grant proposal can seem daunting, but with careful preparation and organization, it can be a relatively easy task. By following these simple steps, you can increase your chances of being awarded the grant money you need to help your small business grow.  

How to Finish Your Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your business plan?

With our Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies that have gone on to achieve tremendous success.

Click here to see how our professional business plan writers can create your business plan for you.

Free Grant Proposal Templates

By Andy Marker | February 1, 2018

• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn

Link copied

With grant proposals, individuals and organizations can solicit funds from foundations, government entities, corporations, and other sources for projects such as scientific research, humanitarian programs, academic study, social services, and professional development. Since grant funding can be a critical component for financing an organization or allowing research to progress, crafting an effective grant proposal is key. Whether you’re creating a lengthy proposal for a government agency, using a letter format for a private foundation, or entering info into an online application, a grant proposal helps potential funders understand the importance of your project and what you plan to achieve.

To help guide you through this process, a number of grant writing templates are available below, including proposal, application, and budget forms. These free, printable templates can provide structure, offer a professional presentation, and save you time and money. You’ll find templates in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PDF formats, all of which you can customize to suit your organization and project.

Grant Proposal Templates

Generic grant proposal template.

Use this template as a guide for preparing a grant proposal. It includes typical sections, such as a statement of need, project description, goals and objectives, and budget. There’s also room to add a detailed timeline. This template provides a basic outline that you can easily modify for a range of proposals.

Download Generic Grant Proposal Template

Word  |  PDF

Nonprofit Grant Proposal Template

Many nonprofit organizations rely on grants to pay for operating expenses and provide community services. This grant proposal template for nonprofits includes sections for adding organizational background information, details about the community or population that will be served, measurable goals, and more. Remove or add sections as needed to create a customized template.

Download Nonprofit Grant Proposal Template

Research Grant Proposal Template

Present your hypothesis, literature review, research plans, and projected outcomes with this research grant proposal. This template could be adjusted to suit a scientific research proposal or academic grant application. Depending on the application requirements, you may be able to submit this document as a formal proposal, or you can use it to compile and organize all of the information that will go into your final proposal.

Download Research Grant Proposal Template

Technology Grant Proposal Template

This technology grant proposal template is geared toward teachers and schools seeking funding for technology to use in the classroom. You can use the template to describe educational goals, technology needs, program sustainability, and budget requirements. The proposal also includes a timeline section to add a detailed schedule.

‌ Download Technology Grant Proposal Template

Grant Budget Templates

Grant proposal budget template.

Create an itemized grant proposal budget that shows income and expenses over the course of a given time period. Enter funding sources and amounts along with specific costs, and the template will automatically calculate the totals. You can use this template for planning purposes, or submit it as part of a larger grant proposal.

‌ Download Grant Proposal Budget Template

Grant Budget Revision Template

If you need to request a budget revision, this template is designed to show how funds will be adjusted by reducing the amounts allotted to one or more categories and increasing funds to others. Some grant makers require a revised budget so that they can approve how funds will be used. This template also includes room for adding organization and grant details.

‌ Download Grant Budget Revision Template

Nonprofit Cash Flow Projection Template

Nonprofits can use this cash flow template for financial planning over a 12-month period. The template shows revenue and expenses on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis. The template also lists common funding sources along with operating costs, which can be edited to accommodate any type of organization.

‌ Download Nonprofit Cash Flow Projection Template

Grant Application Templates

Grant application template.

This template is intended for grant makers who want to create a grant application. It has sections for collecting applicant contact information, organizational details, and a thorough proposal, including a budget. Customize the application to cover whatever questions and information need to be reviewed to accurately assess a proposal.

Download Grant Application Template

Excel  |  PDF

Grant RFP Template

Grant makers can follow this outline to create a request for proposal template. Include submission instructions, agency background information, the timeline for reviewing proposals, and any requirements for proposal content and formatting. Applicants will also want to know what criteria will be used for evaluating proposals.

‌ Download Grant RFP Template - Word

Grant Report and Evaluation Templates

Grant proposal checklist and evaluation form.

Once you have completed a proposal, use this checklist to ensure that all application requirements have been met and to evaluate the proposal’s quality and effectiveness. Consider soliciting feedback on your proposal from stakeholders or others who may be less familiar with the project and, therefore, more objective. Taking a moment to review a proposal may help reduce errors or omissions that could cost more time and money in the long run.

Download Grant Proposal Checklist and Evaluation Form

Excel    |    PDF

Grant Report Template

Grantees may be required to submit an interim or final report describing the progress and outcomes of a project. This simple template provides an outline for creating a comprehensive report, including a financial update that shows how funds have been spent. Grant makers can provide this form to grantees so they have a template to follow for creating a narrative report.

‌ Download Grant Report Template

Grant Applications and Eligibility

Grant writing varies across disciplines, and proposals range from lengthy reports to brief letters that summarize project details. A science grant proposal might be 50 pages long and include a thorough literature review, background information for key personnel, research methodology, and more. The National Science Foundation, for instance, has extensive guidelines for grant applications, and its policies and procedures are outlined in a comprehensive guide for grant applicants.

An application for a global grant from the Rotary Club, on the other hand, is much shorter, and the information required depends on the type of project to be funded. The scope of a project, the amount of funding being awarded, the type of grant maker, and other factors influence what is required from grant seekers.

Businesses are generally not eligible for grants unless they qualify for funding through local government initiatives or are involved in research and development projects that are relevant to federal programs. Some states offer small-business grants to woman- or minority-owned businesses as well as for certain industries. If your company qualifies for federal or state funding, creating a business grant proposal would entail following the guidelines for a specific grant.

Some organizations will accept a common grant application form, which allows for a standardized proposal that saves time for both grant makers and grant seekers. When researching grant opportunities, it is important to understand and follow the application requirements so that your efforts aren’t undermined by technical errors, missing information, or mistakes in the submission process.

Mastering the Grant Writing Process

Writing grants may seem to adhere to a series of linear steps, but unless you are applying for a one-time grant and will not use grant funding in the future, grant writing is a circular process that follows a funding cycle. The process begins with a goal or need that gets translated into a proposal, which is reviewed by the agency or foundation supplying the grant, and then accepted or rejected.

Whether the proposal is accepted or not, the grant writing process continues into the next funding cycle as you revise and resubmit earlier grants or apply for new ones. Nonprofit organizations, ongoing research studies, and other groups that rely on grants as a primary funding source may need to keep a calendar and dedicate a writer to planning and securing grants.

To write an effective proposal, it is helpful to not only find grant opportunities that are relevant to your project, but also understand the funding source and gear your proposal to that audience. If a funder is available to meet in person prior to your organization submitting a proposal, that can go a long way toward providing a more personal context to your project and developing an ongoing relationship. Above all, the proposal should describe a project that can realistically be carried out by the applicant based on experience, qualifications, and financial resources.

As stated earlier, grant proposals vary widely and the content is largely dictated by the application requirements of a particular funder. However, there are commonalities among grant proposals. Here is a look at some of the information typically included:

• Cover Letter: Unless you have already had a face-to-face meeting or other contact with a funder, the cover letter is the first impression of your organization and project. Provide a brief summary that emphasizes your vision and objective.
• Proposal Summary: Although included at the beginning of a proposal, an abstract or executive summary section is often written last. It provides a brief overview of a project, including how the project fits with funding criteria.
• Literature Review: Academic and scientific research grants typically include a literature review that lists and evaluates sources of preliminary research that are related to the project.
• Statement of Need: The need statement is your opportunity to show a funder why your project is important. It explains the issue, and also provides background information and relevant research or evidence to support your proposal. You present the argument for why your project should be awarded funding over other proposals.
• Organization Description and Staff: Organizational history, background and qualifications for key personnel, and a program’s mission and track record for similar projects may all be important to illustrate a trustworthy reputation and your ability to successfully implement the proposed project. You may need a separate section to outline specific roles and responsibilities.
• Project Narrative: This is where you would include a lengthier project or program description, providing a detailed look at what the project entails, specific goals, and other information. You may include some of the sections listed here, such as personnel information, objectives, and measurements for success.
• Goals and Objectives: Breaking down goals into definitive and measurable results outlines the vision for a project as well as tangible outcomes. Grant proposals from nonprofits and other organizations involved in community projects may also include a description of the community being served, information on how it will benefit, and research on the potential for community involvement.
• Methods and Strategies: Grant makers will want to see how you plan to achieve goals and objectives. You may decide to include a logic model, which offers a condensed version of your proposal outline, to provide a visual representation of the key elements of your project and how they will lead to the intended outcomes. Clarify connections among methodology, objectives, and outcomes.
• Project Timeline: A timeline for your action plan can help funders visualize the stages of your project. This may be especially useful for research projects carried out over the course of several years. You may also want to include a budget timeline.
• Evaluation: Create an evaluation plan and describe what metrics will be used to assess a project’s effectiveness or impact.
• Sustainability Plan: If a project will continue into the future, create a plan for ongoing sustainability after grant funds have been used — doing so shows funders that a project is viable for the long term.
• Other Funding: Grant makers may want to see what other sources of funding you expect to receive for your project.
• Budget: The proposal budget shows estimated expenses along with sources of revenue. It provides an itemized look at how funds will be allotted and utilized.
• Appendix: References and additional materials can be included in the appendix.

Before submitting a completed proposal, grant writers can do their own review to ensure that the proposal meets the necessary criteria and application requirements. Grant makers will in turn conduct their review process and select which proposals to fund. Once funding is awarded, the grant maker and the grantee sign an agreement that describes the terms of the grant.

There are many sample grant proposal templates online that provide examples of successful applications. For instance, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) offers a variety of sample proposals for scientific research, as well as small-business funding for research and development.

Top 5 Grant Writing Tips

If you are new to grant writing, here are some tips to keep in mind as you develop your proposals:

• Give yourself plenty of time. Researching grant opportunities and gathering the information needed for an effective proposal can be a time-consuming process. Start earlier than you think you need to, and create a schedule to keep your grant writing process on track.
• Keep trying. If your proposal is rejected, revise it and apply again. Persistence can pay off, and you don’t need to wait for the results of one application before applying for a different grant. Sending proposals to a diverse selection of funders may also increase your chances of being selected.
• Details matter. Be specific about how funding will be used, goals will be achieved, and data will be collected, as well as your timeline of action steps. Grant makers want to know exactly how their money will be used, what impact the project or program will have, and why the project is important.
• Follow the rules. Follow grant application guidelines exactly, including answering required questions, providing requested information, and sticking to a submission timeline.
• Pay attention to formatting. The format of your proposal may be dictated by grant guidelines or a preset application, but make sure it is organized with clear headings. Information should be easily accessible and appropriate for the given audience.

One final tip: Create a reusable template that can be adjusted for a variety of grant applications.

Improve Grant Proposal Management with Smartsheet

Empower your people to go above and beyond with a flexible platform designed to match the needs of your team — and adapt as those needs change. 

The Smartsheet platform makes it easy to plan, capture, manage, and report on work from anywhere, helping your team be more effective and get more done. Report on key metrics and get real-time visibility into work as it happens with roll-up reports, dashboards, and automated workflows built to keep your team connected and informed. 

When teams have clarity into the work getting done, there’s no telling how much more they can accomplish in the same amount of time.  Try Smartsheet for free, today.

Discover why over 90% of Fortune 100 companies trust Smartsheet to get work done.

Grant Writing for Small Business: A Step-by-Step Success Guide

• Post author By awesome
• Post date September 5, 2023

Grant writing for small businesses involves identifying relevant funding opportunities and crafting compelling proposals that demonstrate the business’s need, viability, and potential impact.

Successful grant applications require a clear understanding of the business’s goals, a well-researched and persuasive narrative, detailed budgets and timelines, and strict adherence to the grant provider’s guidelines and submission requirements.

Understanding Grant Proposals

Proposal components.

Grant proposals are crucial for securing funding. They must include a cover letter, an executive summary, project description, game plan, eligibility requirements, specific programs, and budget. Each component, including specific programs, specific business, team, and technical assistance, serves a unique purpose in making a strong case for support.

The executive summary introduces the business and its goals. The project description outlines how objectives will be achieved. The budget details financial needs and allocations. Tailoring these elements to meet specific funder guidelines, including eligibility for grant funding and formula grants , is essential for success in the grant writing process .

Key Elements

Cover letter.

A personalized cover letter is your first impression. It should introduce your business and outline the grant amount requested, specifying if it’s for formula grants or local grants, and the project’s impact, serving as a game plan for applicants. Keep it concise and aligned with the funder’s mission to make a strong initial connection, following instructions for grant funding support during the grant writing process.

Executive Summary

The executive summary summarizes your proposal’s main points, including objectives, methods, and expected outcomes, vital in the grant writing process for following instructions and securing grant funding. It should be compelling to encourage further reading. Clarity, brevity, and effective use of resources such as information and instructions are key in the writing process of presenting your business case effectively.

Types Explained

Federal grants.

Federal grants, offering resources and information, award significant opportunities for small businesses in need, especially in research and development. Navigating federal grant applications requires understanding of compliance requirements. Use federal databases and their website information to find suitable grants, get help, and ensure alignment with your business goals by following the provided instructions.

Corporate Grants

Corporate grants award funding opportunities for small businesses and startups, with instructions and information available on their website. Understand corporate grantmakers’ goals and align your proposal accordingly. Networking and building relationships with small business corporations can open doors to valuable funding sources , help with grant writing, and award opportunities.

Preparing Your Proposal

Research first.

Before diving into writing, thorough research is crucial . It ensures your proposal aligns with the funder’s mission. Look into past award winners and review their grant funding proposals for valuable insights and information, following the provided instructions. This can help give you a clear idea of what information you need to succeed in grant funding.

Check the eligibility criteria and grant objectives meticulously. Every grant has specific requirements. Meeting these increases your chances of success.

Team Collaboration

Involving a diverse team in the grant writing process brings numerous benefits, including help for small businesses that need information. Different skills contribute to a stronger proposal. Assign roles based on expertise, such as financial planning or project management, to help use information on grant funding.

Hold regular meetings to discuss progress. This ensures everyone stays aligned with the proposal’s objectives. Collaboration fosters creativity and innovation, essential for a standout proposal that can help secure grant funding for a small business with the right information.

Writing Process

Needs statements.

Crafting a compelling needs statement is vital. It should outline the problem clearly, the need for help, and how the grant will address it by using the information. Use data and research to back up your claims.

Link this need directly to the funder’s priorities for a stronger connection, emphasizing how grant funding can help meet this need with information beneficial to small businesses. This shows you understand what they value and how your project aligns with their goals, demonstrating the need for grant funding and how this information can help.

Project Description

Detailing your project’s objectives, methodology, timeline, and personnel involved is next, which will help provide the information small businesses need. Demonstrate its feasibility and potential for success clearly. Funders want to invest in projects that show promise.

Highlight how the project aligns with the funder’s goals. This reinforces your understanding of their mission and how your project contributes to it, by providing information, help, grant, and the need.

Budgeting Strategies

Detailed budget.

A clear and justified budget is crucial in grant writing to help small businesses in need of information. It should outline all project costs and funding sources. Accuracy is key. Make sure your budget aligns with the funder’s guidelines. This shows you understand their requirements.

A budget narrative is equally important. It explains why each cost item is necessary. This transparency builds trust with funders. They see where their money goes.

Financial Planning

After crafting your proposal, focus on the project’s future. A solid financial plan demonstrates sustainability post-grant. It reassures funders that their grant investment has a lasting impact, providing the information and help they need.

Include a plan for future funding or revenue generation . This shows you’re thinking ahead. Detail your financial management practices too. Funders need to know you’ll spend responsibly.

Submission Guidelines

Final review.

A thorough final review of your small business grant proposal is crucial if you need help. It ensures the proposal’s coherence, completeness, and compliance with the submission guidelines, helping small businesses in need to secure grant funding. This step should never be overlooked. It ties directly to the budgeting strategies outlined previously, as any discrepancies between the budget and project description can lead to rejection, especially when the need for a grant to help a small business is involved.

Seeking external feedback is highly beneficial. Reach out to peers or mentors who have experience in grant writing to help your small business if you need it. Their insights can provide invaluable perspectives and help that you might have missed, especially for small businesses seeking to grant opportunities. They can help spot weaknesses in your argument or suggest improvements that make your small business grant proposal more compelling.

Proofreading is another essential step in the final review process. Look for grammatical errors and ensure your ideas are clear and concise. A well-written grant proposal not only communicates professionalism but also makes it easier for reviewers to understand your objectives and how you plan to achieve them, thereby offering help to small business.

Tracking Applications

Once your small business grant proposal is submitted, setting up a system to help track its progress is vital. This helps manage multiple applications efficiently for small business grants, ensuring you meet all deadlines and follow up appropriately.

Maintain detailed records of all grant submissions and correspondence with funders to help small business. This includes dates of submission for grant help, responses received for small business assistance, additional documents requested, and any other relevant interactions. Such records are invaluable for tracking your small business grant application’s status and preparing for future communications with the funder, which can help.

Analyzing unsuccessful small business grant applications offers a golden opportunity for learning and improvement, which can help. Identify areas where your business proposal may have fallen short by comparing it against the eligibility criteria and instructions provided by the grant funders to help you. Use these insights to strengthen future applications.

Enhancing Writing Skills

Strategic game plan.

Developing a long-term strategy for grant seeking is crucial to help your business. It involves targeting specific grant opportunities that align with your business’s needs and planning your submissions well in advance. This approach ensures you’re not just throwing darts in the dark but aiming with precision in your business grant strategy.

Setting realistic goals and timelines for each business grant application can significantly increase your chances of success. It’s important to allocate enough time for research, writing, and revision stages in the business grant process. Rushed applications are rarely successful.

Continuously refining your strategy based on outcomes and feedback is key. If an application is unsuccessful, learn from it. Adjust your approach accordingly for future submissions.

Using Rich Media

Incorporating images, videos, or infographics can make your business grant proposal stand out. These elements should not be added just for the sake of visual appeal but must be directly relevant to the business grant proposal. They should enhance the narrative and help explain complex ideas more simply.

Ensure any media used is professional and high-quality. Poorly presented visuals can harm credibility more than help it. Visuals must complement the written content in a business grant application, providing a cohesive and compelling application.

Research Winners

Studying successful grant proposals offers invaluable insights. It allows you to see what worked for others in the business and grant sectors and how you can adapt those strategies to fit your proposal. Look for patterns or common elements among business grant winners that could be applied to your own strategy.

Reaching out to past grant winners for business tips and advice can also be beneficial. They may offer practical suggestions or highlight pitfalls to avoid in business or grant applications based on their personal experiences.

Analyzing winning strategies isn’t about copying them verbatim but understanding why they were effective. Adapt these strategies to suit your unique business proposition and grant objectives.

Applying Strategically

Local grants first.

Starting with local grant opportunities for your business can be a wise move. These grants often come with less competition and are more accessible to small businesses. By focusing on these business grant opportunities, you increase your chances of success.

It’s beneficial to build relationships with local grantmakers. Understanding their business goals for community impact can give you an edge in grant applications. They look for business projects that align with their vision, making your grant application stand out.

Leverage your local networks and resources for support. Many communities have organizations dedicated to helping small businesses thrive, often through grant assistance. They can offer invaluable business advice and assistance throughout the grant application process .

Grants of All Sizes

Applying for business grants of various sizes is crucial in diversifying your funding sources. It’s a business strategy that balances risk and opportunity, ensuring a steady flow of resources and grant opportunities.

Small grants should not be overlooked. Despite their size, business grants can add up and often come with less competition. They might also require less comprehensive business grant applications, saving you time and effort.

Balancing efforts between large and small grant applications is key. Consider the potential return on investment (ROI) for each business grant opportunity. This approach ensures that you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket but rather spreading your efforts wisely in business and grant applications.

After Submission

Common mistakes.

After submitting a grant proposal, many small businesses wait anxiously for a response. However, this period can be used to reflect on the business grant application process and identify any potential errors that could have been made. Common mistakes in business grant applications include missing deadlines , which immediately disqualifies the proposal. It’s crucial to double-check all business grant submission dates in future applications.

Another pitfall in the grant application process for businesses is failing to follow the funder’s instructions or submitting incomplete applications. These oversights can lead to an automatic rejection. Businesses should ensure every question is answered and every required document, including grant applications, is included before submission.

Using overly technical language can also be detrimental. It might obscure the grant proposal’s objectives, making it hard for reviewers to understand the project’s value. Instead, aim for clarity and simplicity in describing your grant project’s goals and how they align with the funder’s priorities.

Lastly, not tailoring the grant proposal to directly address the funder’s criteria is a missed opportunity. Reviewers look for grant proposals that closely match their interests and objectives. Therefore, understanding and reflecting these grant priorities in your application is key.

Requirements Post-Grant

Understanding post-grant requirements is as important as securing the grant itself. Small businesses must prepare for reporting and audits that come with most grants. They should familiarize themselves with these grant requirements early on to ensure compliance throughout the project duration.

Maintaining good communication with the funder cannot be overstated. It builds trust and may pave the way for future grant funding opportunities. Regular updates on project progress demonstrate your commitment and responsibility towards the grant-funded project.

Setting up internal processes for monitoring and reporting on grant project progress is essential. This includes establishing clear roles within your team for who will handle reporting duties and how data on project outcomes will be collected, analyzed, and grant-related information managed. Such measures ensure you meet all post-grant requirements efficiently.

Additional Resources

Finding grants, federal databases.

Federal databases, such as Grants.gov, are treasure troves for finding government grant opportunities. They offer a comprehensive list of available grants across various sectors. Small businesses should dive deep into these resources . Familiarizing oneself with the search features is crucial. It helps in narrowing down the vast options to those most relevant.

The application processes on these platforms can be intricate. Hence, it’s advisable to understand them well ahead of time. Regular checks for updates and new grant announcements are essential. This ensures businesses don’t miss out on timely opportunities.

Corporate Databases

Corporate grant databases and websites are equally valuable for finding private funding opportunities. Many companies run corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives that include grants for small businesses. Researching these can open up new avenues for support.

Creating alerts or subscribing to newsletters from these entities can keep you informed about new grant opportunities as soon as they arise. This proactive approach can give businesses an edge in the competitive grant application process.

Grant Proposal Templates

Using templates can significantly ease the process of structuring grant proposals. They serve as a solid starting point for a grant, ensuring all fundamental aspects of a proposal are covered. However, customization is key. Each grant funder has specific requirements and guidelines that your proposal needs to meet.

It’s beneficial to review multiple grant templates to find the one that best suits your proposal’s needs. This not only saves time but also increases the chances of your grant proposal standing out.

Final Remarks

Navigating the world of grant writing for your small business can seem daunting, but armed with the right knowledge on proposal understanding, budgeting strategies, and submission guidelines, you’re set for success. Remember, enhancing your writing skills and applying strategically for grants are key steps. Don’t let the grant process after submission deter you; use it as a learning curve. The resources provided are there to guide you further.

Taking this journey can significantly impact your business’s growth, sustainability, and grant opportunities. It’s all about making smart moves, leveraging available opportunities, and utilizing grants. So, dive in, apply what you’ve learned, and remember—the effort you put in now can lead to substantial rewards down the line. Ready to make your mark? Start crafting that winning proposal today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i start writing a grant proposal for my small business.

Begin by understanding the grant requirements thoroughly. Then, outline your project’s goals, objectives, and how it aligns with the grantor’s mission. This initial step is crucial for a successful proposal.

What are key elements to include in my grant proposal?

Your grant proposal should clearly articulate your project description, objectives, target population, budget details, and the impact it will have. Transparency and specificity are key to standing out.

How can I create an effective budget for my grant proposal?

Start by itemizing all project costs realistically and justify each expense for the grant. Ensure your budget aligns with the project’s goals and the grant funder’s guidelines. Clarity and accuracy in this section are vital.

What are some tips for submitting a grant proposal?

Carefully follow the grant submission guidelines provided by the funding agency. Double-check your grant proposal for completeness and compliance with all requirements before submitting it on time.

How can I improve my grant writing skills?

Practice regularly, seek feedback from experienced grant writers , and consider attending workshops or courses on grant writing. Reading successful grant proposals can also provide valuable insights.

Is there a strategic approach to applying for grants?

Yes, research extensively to find grants that closely match your business needs and goals. Tailor each grant application to reflect how your project aligns with the funder’s priorities. Applying selectively but thoughtfully increases your chances of success.

What should I do after submitting a grant proposal?

Follow up with the grant funding agency if they allow it, but be patient as grant review processes can take time. Use this period to gather additional data or refine project plans that could strengthen future proposals.

• Tags Financial and Operational Management , Specialized Industry Strategies

Start Your FREE Business Growth Review and Consultation Today

Don't risk the common mistakes most Founders and CEOs make in exponentially growing their business and working to get leads and sales daily.

It's critical to get the qualified guidance to help you exponentially grow with less stress.

We're a Fractional CMO & CEO team that helps you grow 3 to 10x with less stress, get clients daily, and escape the rat race day to day.

We've helped over 5,000 Founders and CEOs from 180 industries and 13 countries over the last 30 years.

With our performance based model, the better you do (with your revenue and profits) the better we do.

We go beyond traditional agency or coaching as your Fractional CMO and CEO Team. We also give you access to the Implementation Team to 'get it done' and 'make your ideas real' .

Here's a small sampling of what you can expect:

• Grow 3-to-10x and Escape the Day to Day
• Flexible option based on your size & goals
• Get more clients daily with less stress
• No long term contracts

This is not a one size fits all model and we customize it for your situation. You get access to some or all of the following to help you IMPLEMENT when we work together:

• Web Developers
• Tech Experts
• Copywriters
• Graphic Designers
• Traffic Experts
• Content Writers
• Marketing & Sales Advisor
• Email Marketing
• & more!

Fill out the form or Call Us : 602-234-9410

Fill out the form or Call Us :

602-234-9410

Get a Business Growth Review & Consultation!

Enter your info below and one of our adviser's will get back with you ASAP. If you need immediate assistance, call: 602-234-9410

Do you want more clients? YES , Grow My Business NO , No Growth Please

Small business grants: 20 options to apply for free funds for your business

No matter what kind of small business you own, there are grants available to help your business grow. Read on for details on grant options and databases.

Ready to start your business? Plans start at $0 + filing fees.

by   LegalZoom staff

Read more...

Updated on: February 15, 2024 · 14 min read

• What are small business grants, and who is eligible to receive one?

Grants for starting a small business

Small business grants for women, small business grants for minority groups, business grants for veterans, business grants for startups, applying for a small business grant: 4 process tips.

Looking for a little financial assistance to help launch or grow your small business? Check out these grant opportunities—including LegalZoom’s Fast Break for Small Business grant program.

Small business grants offer funds to grow your business in a variety of ways. In many cases, you can use grants for things like operations, marketing, or expanding your team. Finding out which grants you may be eligible for is crucial so that you can start applying.

In this article, we'll cover the basics of grants and give you tips about how to score more of them.

What are small business grants, and who is eligible to receive o ne?

Small business grants are amounts of seed money given to entrepreneurs  to build their businesses. Grant money is considered “gifted," and you are not required to pay it back. Sometimes, you may need to pay taxes on the amounts received, so please consider this and talk to a tax professional.

To secure a grant, you may have to do things like:

• Meet eligibility requirements
• Submit applications
• Go through interviews

In exchange, you could be awarded financial resources to  build your brand , team, and operations.

Government entities or private businesses establish most grant programs because they want to help others succeed.

Tip:  Search grant databases, such as  GrantWatch , to find available grants in your industry. GrantWatch is an online hub for more than 26,000 grants in the United States and Canada in which you can browse various funding opportunities easily by filtering your specifications.

Grants vs. loans: What's the difference for entrepreneurs?

A  loan  is funding you must pay back to the creditor who loaned you the money. In contrast, a grant is “gifted" money you don't need to pay back.

You will have to apply for both grants and loans, but a loan application considers your ability to repay the money, while a grant application considers your merit as it applies to the rules of the grant.

If you’re considering a loan, LegalZoom’s Fast Break for Small Business grant fund administrator, Accion Opportunity Fund , is an inclusive Community Development Institutions Fund (CDFI) dedicated to helping small business owners. They provide support through affordable small business loans, coaching, educational resources, networks, webinars, and policy advocacy. 

4 types of grants available to small businesses

Grants of many types are available to small business owners and are grouped into four main categories. Your eligibility for these grants will depend on your products and services, how you own your business, and your business's mission.

The four types of grants available to business owners are:

• Federal grants : The government gives grants to stimulate the economy. These grants are drawn from the U.S. general federal revenue.
• State grants : These can be smaller than federal grants, but because of their state-specific requirements, the competition is often slimmer. This makes them more attainable for many organizations. Even though they may be smaller than a federal grant, they can still be a much-needed financial boost.
• Local grants : Small establishments are the main focus of these grants that directly stimulate the community around them.
• Corporate grants : These grants, given out by corporations, can have various requirements, come in different amounts, and be suited for specific or broad types of businesses. In most cases, companies set aside money at the beginning of the fiscal year and host competitions to distribute funds.

There's plenty of grant money available for entrepreneurs. Look into funding from the following sources to help your business. These grants were available at the time of publishing and may not still be available.

1. LegalZoom’s Fast Break for Small Business grant program

Together with the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League, LegalZoom is offering $3 million in grant funding and services to small business owners and emerging entrepreneurs, with a $6 million commitment over three years. Apply today through Sept. 15, 2024, for your chance at a $10,000 small business grant and/or up to $500 in LegalZoom products and services.

• Award amount : $10,000 for established businesses, $500 in products and services for emerging entrepreneurs
• How to apply : Apply on Accion Opportunity Fund’s website .  

2. Grants.gov

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources created Grants.gov in 2002. It's a government program operated by the Office of Management and Budget. The program provides resources and assistance for grant seekers to find and receive funding.

• Award amount:  Varies
• How to apply:  Visit grants.gov for details on specific grants.

The website allows you to search for federal grants and check your eligibility before applying for one. You can also track your grant applications once submitted.  

3. Local chamber of commerce

Start by researching grants within your community—your local Chamber of Commerce is a great place to start.

• How to apply:  Reach out to your local  Chamber of Commerce  for information.

Although some grants have stipulations like industry, business type, size, and location, your local chamber of commerce should be able to connect you with grants that fit your situation. Their team can also provide your small business funding services, tips, and resources.

4. Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR)

The Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) is a competitive grant program for small businesses. This program helps fund entrepreneurs in the research and development industry to support scientific and technological innovation.

• Award amount:  Phase 1, $50,000–$250,000 for six months or one year; Phase 2, $750,000 for two years (only available for businesses who previously received a Phase I grant).
• How to apply:  Apply with a  specific solicitation  if you meet industry requirements.

A  solid business plan  is a must before you apply. A plan will clarify your business's direction and how it can benefit your community.

5. Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR)

Small Business Technology Transfer Programs are similar to SBIRs but focused on the technology industry. This grant is issued to businesses in the technology industry.

These grants help fund innovative technological advancement in many fields with the intention of boosting the economy.  

6. FedEx Small Business Grant

FedEx hosts a small business grant contest to provide funding for ambitious entrepreneurs. The contest has tough competition, with nearly 18,000 applicants for the grant in 2022.

• Award amount:  Up to $30,000
• How to apply:  Visit the  FedEx website  for specific application details.

This grant is open to small business models with a story “worth telling," so if you plan to apply, pinpoint what makes your business unique.

7. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grant

The  National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grant  was established in 2006. Over the years, NASE has awarded roughly $1,000,000 to entrepreneurs to help grow small businesses.

• Award amount:  Up to $4,000
• How to apply:  Visit NASE's  website  for information on the grant and how to become an NASE member.

You must be a member of NASE to apply for this grant, but winners can receive up to $4,000 to go toward marketing, team growth, and other needs.

Several small business grants are available exclusively to women, and more arise every year to tackle inequality in funding.

8. Amber Grant Foundation

WomensNet founded the  Amber Grant Foundation  in 1998. Its mission is to help aspiring  female small business owners  fund their dreams in honor of Amber Wigdahl, the grant's namesake.

• Award amount:  $10,000–$25,000
• How to apply:  Visit WomensNet's  website  for details on monthly and annual grant gifts. This grant has a $15 application fee.

In the first week of every month, $10,000 is awarded to a woman pursuing her entrepreneurial passions, from “scientific inventors to bakers," according to the WomensNet site. At the end of each year, the foundation also grants one woman $25,000.

9. Live Your Dream Award

Each year, the  Live Your Dream Foundation  grants $2.1 million in educational funds to women on behalf of Soroptimist International. This foundation focuses on women who have survived sexual violence or other traumatic events.

• Award amount:  $1,000–$10,000
• How to apply:  Visit Soroptimist's website  for more information.

The Live Your Dream Foundation offers programs and funding that help women build confidence, advance their careers, and overcome unexpected situations. 

10. Cartier Women's Initiative Award

This grant program is for eco-friendly and sustainable women-owned businesses around the world. Cartier offers three funding types:  regional awards ,  diversity, equity, and inclusion awards , and  science and technology pioneer awards .

• Award amount:  $30,000–$100,000
• How to apply:  Visit the  Cartier Women's Initiative website  for more information on various awards.

11. American Association of University Women (AAUW)

The American Association of University Women not only offers academic and research grants but also grants for career development for women looking to change careers or reenter the workforce.

• Award amount:  $2,000–$20,000
• How to apply:  Visit the  AAUW website  for a timeline and eligibility requirements.

In addition to grants for individual career betterment, the AAUW also grants funds for projects that encourage and jump-start young girls' careers in technical fields.

12. Stacy's Rise Project

Stacy's Snacks is a women-led brand that launched the Rise Project to help women grow their businesses in the food industry. The project offers funding in addition to mentorship and opportunities for community and networking.

• Award amount:  $25,000
• How to apply:  Visit the  Stacy's website  for grant information

Past winners have received more than $450,000 to grow their products with mentorship.

13. Tory Burch Foundation Fellowship Grant

Designer Tory Burch has a fund with the goal of mentoring and uplifting women entrepreneurs across all walks of life.

• Award amount:  $5,000
• How to apply:  Visit the  Tory Burch website  for details on the fellowship program and the foundation itself.

In addition to a monetary grant, the fellowship program offers a yearlong education model with mentorship tailored to your needs. The foundation also offers a peer network of other recipients and a trip to Burch's New York office.

Many small business grants celebrate this diversity by offering grants specifically for minorities to help you and your business grow.

14. Sephora Accelerate

Sephora is a makeup retailer that launched its  Accelerate  grant program to uplift minority business leaders. Each fall, this program helps fund and mentor entrepreneurs in the beauty industry.

• Award amount:  This is a non-monetary award that offers mentorship and a potential Sephora-exclusive product launch
• How to apply:  Visit  Sepora Accelerate  for more information on eligibility and selection criteria.

Though rewards for this grant aren't monetary, they do involve a hefty financial advantage. Winners receive access to a six-month boot camp and are eligible to launch their products directly with Sephora.

16. National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC)

The  National Minority Supplier Development Council  is a top corporate membership organization that offers business services and networking opportunities to connect you with investors and build your practice.

• How to apply:  Visit the  NMDSC website  for more information on offerings and one-off funding and grant opportunities.

Although grant opportunities run the gambit, access to the NMSDC's roster of mentors and community small business advisors is top-notch.

17. Operation Hope Small Business Empowerment Program

The  Small Business Empowerment Program  from Operation Hope offers eight and 12-week entrepreneurship training programs with funding opportunities.

• How to apply:  Visit   Operation Hope  for details and other entrepreneurial growth opportunities.

18. SBA Funding Programs

The  SBA grant program  offers a few funding options—research and development, exporting, and associate rewards. Grants vary by year, and eligibility may differ depending on each grant offering.

• How to apply:  Visit SBA  for more information on grant offerings.

The SBA also offers a Veterans Business Outreach Center services for veterans to help assist in operations, funding, and other business needs.

Thanks to certain organizations, veterans are on the receiving end of many small business grants and programs.

19. The Second Service Foundation

The Second Service Foundation's mission is to inspire and support military entrepreneurs. It grants businesses funding, shares educational content, provides mentorship and coaching, and hosts networking events.

• Award amount:  $4,000–$15,000
• How to apply:  Visit the  Second Service Foundation  for more information on grant offerings.

Since 2016, the foundation (formerly The StreetShares Foundation) has built a strong community of over 85,000 members and helped more than 5,000 entrepreneurs build their businesses.

20. VA VR&E Business Ownership Track

If you're a veteran with a disability and an entrepreneurial passion, reach out to the  VR&E Self-Employment Track program . This program helps coordinate services to build your business—starting with your business plan. Team members assist in small business operations, marketing, and finances.

• Award amount:  Non-monetary. Assistance with planning and growing a business.
• How to apply:  Visit the  VA.gov  for more information on program benefits.

While the program isn't a monetary grant, the resources provided to recipients are valuable for planning and scaling a business as a veteran.

In all likelihood, you'll need funds to take your business model to the next level. Instead of taking out a business loan, consider these startup grants.

20. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grants

The Build to Scale (B2S) Program seeks to build regional economies by funding scalable startups through various grant competitions. Total funding stands in the millions, with $45 million in federal funds available to startups in 2022.

• How to apply:  Visit EDA.gov  for details on grant competitions.

The B2S program accepts applications for three different competitions: Venture Challenge, Capital Challenge, and Industry Challenge.

Small business grants come in many forms and have various requirements. While there's nothing you can do to guarantee you get a grant, there are some things that can increase your likelihood of getting picked for one.

1. Start local

Nationwide grants can be appealing due to their large awards. Before you spend countless hours preparing submissions for nationwide grants, consider starting locally.

Look for any small grants offered by your town or city. Then, branch out to the state level and regional level. These grants may not be as big as some of the ones offered to the entire country, but you'll also be competing with a smaller pool and have a greater chance of winning funding.

2. Research previous winners

If you've found a grant that looks like a good fit for your business, do some digging and see who the previous winners were. Note any patterns you see between the business.

Seeing what kinds of businesses are awarded a certain grant can help you narrow down if your business is a good fit, what you could do to increase your chances, and ultimately help you save time by not applying to a grant you're unlikely to land.

3. Take your time with applications

Grant applications can be long and grueling. Take it slowly when filling them out, and don't let yourself get overwhelmed by trying to rush them. A mistake on the application could cost you the grant, so make sure it's time well spent by filling out the forms the right way.

Similarly, take your time developing your story before you start writing grant applications. Many grants may ask entrepreneurs to appeal to emotion in their applications, wanting to hear about the “why" behind your motivation to grow a business besides financial gain. A confident story can be a great asset before embarking down a path of grant applications.

4. Consider hiring a grant writer

Grant writing is an art, so consider hiring a grant writer. A grant writer will know what kind of language to use to make your application stand out, which can make quite an impact when you're competing.

It's worth noting that grant writers can be expensive. So, if you're strapped for cash, you may want to hold off and consider taking some  free grant writing courses  instead.

Before applying to grant programs, ensure you've  covered all your business's legal bases  and have a story to tell along with a business plan to show.

When you’re ready to take your business to the next level, LegalZoom will be there to help you every step of the way.

You may also like

What does 'inc.' mean in a company name?

'Inc.' in a company name means the business is incorporated, but what does that entail, exactly? Here's everything you need to know about incorporating your business.

October 9, 2023 · 10min read

How to write a will: A comprehensive guide to will writing

Writing a will is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and for your loved ones, and it can be done in just minutes. Are you ready to get started?

April 25, 2024 · 11min read

How to get an LLC and start a limited liability company

Considering an LLC for your business? The application process isn't complicated, but to apply for an LLC, you'll have to do some homework first.

March 21, 2024 · 11min read

• Search Search Please fill out this field.

Types of Small Business Grants

• Qualifying for Business Grants
• How to Apply

The Bottom Line

• Small Business

How to Get Approved for a Small Business Grant

Federal agencies, state agencies, and even private companies offer funding to help you grow your business

If you own a small business or are planning to start one, you have a number of options for securing funding . While taking out a loan may be the first idea that comes to mind, you could be overlooking another possibility: cash grants from the federal government, state or local government, or private companies. While grants can be much more competitive and difficult to obtain, unlike loans they don't have to be paid back. Here is what you need to know about getting approved for one.

Key Takeaways

• Small business grants, unlike loans, do not normally need to be paid back.
• The federal government, state and local governments, corporations, and nonprofits can all be sources of grants.
• Grant programs tend to have very specific criteria, so it's important to know what they're looking for and whether your business appears to be a good fit.
• Grants are highly competitive and applying for one can represent a significant time commitment.

Small business grants are available from a variety of sponsors. Three major sources are the federal government, your state government, and certain corporations.

Federal Small Business Grants

The U.S. government provides grants and loans to small businesses through many different departments and agencies. The website Grants.gov is a centralized resource where you can learn about many of them, search for ones you might be eligible for, and submit your applications. Major federal grant sources for small businesses include:

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) . Best known for the SBA loan program , through which it backs loans to small businesses made by private lenders, the SBA also has a limited grants program. While it notes that it "does not provide grants for starting and expanding a business," its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs "encourage small firms to undertake scientific research that helps meet federal research and development objectives and have a high potential for commercialization if successful."

In addition, the SBA funds the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). STEP provides money to states and U.S. territories, enabling them to offer grants and other financial assistance to small businesses looking to export internationally.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) . The Department of Health and Human Services Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) provides grant money to small businesses that meet its criteria. Its programs are intended to help small businesses compete for federal contracts, with a focus on socially or economically disadvantaged people (the 8(a) Business Development Program), historically underutilized business (HUB) zones (HUBZone Program), and women-owned businesses (the Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSB) and Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Businesses (EDWOSB) programs, among others. Including its small business programs, HHS says it "distributes the largest amount of grant funding of any federal agency.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) . The USDA funds a wide range of financial assistance programs for farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural producers, directly or indirectly. The USDA Rural Development Business Program, for example, partners with lending institutions and community-based organizations to provide grants, loans, and loan guarantees to individuals and businesses in rural areas.

Again, you can find out about all these programs and many others at Grants.gov.

State Small Business Grants

State and local governments can also have grant programs for small businesses, drawing on federal funding, their own resources, or some combination of the two.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury's State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), for example, provides funding to states, territories, and tribal governments, which they in turn use to support small businesses through cash grants and other means. Ohio, for instance, announced in late 2022 that it was in line to receive up to $182 million in SSBCI funding.

Oregon's Export Promotion Program, partially funded by the federal SBA's STEP program, provides grants to small businesses so that they can participate in international trade shows and trade missions.

To find grant possibilities in your state, two good resources are the Council for Community and Economic Research's State Business Incentives Database and the Small Business Development Center serving your area.

Corporate Small Business Grants

Some corporations, as well as nonprofit organizations, also provide grants to small businesses . In addition to the money, many of these programs offer mentoring and other benefits for the winners. A few examples: 

The Amazon Business Small Business Grants program, for example, makes grants to small business customers with no more than $1 million in annual revenue. Like many grant programs, this one is extremely competitive. For 2023, it planned to award a total of 15 grants, ranging from $15,000 to $25,000; in 2022, it received more than 19,000 grant applications.

The FedEx Small Business Grant Contest awards grants to a limited number of U.S. small businesses "to be applied towards growing or enhancing their business." To be eligible, the business must be a FedEx customer with a valid FedEx business shipping account number and fewer than 99 employees. For 2023, it made 10 awards.

Visa's She's Next Grant Program offers $10,000 grants to 60 Black women-owned businesses in six U.S. cities. The company is also a sponsor of similar grant programs in several other countries.

As with state-funded grants, a good place to start in looking for corporate or nonprofit grants would be the SBA-sponsored Small Business Development Center serving your area.

Most 7(a) SBA loans have a maximum amount of $5 million.

Qualifying for Small Business Grants

As noted in the sections above, grants for small businesses are highly competitive and often limited to a certain type of business or business owner. So your first step in qualifying for a grant is to narrow the list to grants with criteria that seem a good match. 

Having done that, you'll want to take a careful look at the application for each grant program , spend the time to fill it out thoroughly, and make sure you supply any documents or other backup that the application asks for. With so many applicants for a limited number of grants, you don't want to be ruled out simply on a minor technicality.

Some grant programs also profile past winners on their websites. This can give you a better idea of what the administrators are looking for and allow you to position your business accordingly.

How to Apply for Small Business Grants

The first rule in applying for a small business grant is to check on any deadlines. Some programs accept applications throughout the year, while others may have annual or quarterly deadlines.

While you shouldn't rush yourself in filling out your applications, it is in your best interest to get them in as early as possible. Most grant programs have a limited amount of funds and may stop even reviewing applications once the money is exhausted.

Grant writing, as applying for grants is called, is a craft in its own right and a full-time profession for some people. If you're coming at it for the first time you'll find a lot of useful how-to information in books and online. For example, Grants.gov has a blog devoted to helpful grant-writing tips.

Among them: try to put yourself in the place of a person reviewing your application and enlist some capable proofreaders early in the process not only to spot typos but to point out any issues of logic or structure that may be interfering with your message.

Who Is Eligible for U.S. Business Grants?

To be eligible for U.S. business grants , a business must already be in operation and also must have (1) taxes in good standing and no outstanding tax amounts or liens; (2) an owner who is the majority owner of the business as well as the decision-maker; (3) a business owner who earns their main income from this business, and (4) an owner who can prove their eligibility by providing government-issued identification.

Can You Borrow Money From the Government to Start a Business?

Yes, you can borrow money from the government to start a business through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA offers many different loans with different requirements, most stipulating that a business must already exist.

What Is the Disadvantage of a Grant?

The primary disadvantage of a business grant is that the money needs to be used in a very specific way; you can't use the money in any way you please. However, this is not typically a disadvantage because when you're applying for a grant, you know why you are applying and what the money will be used for, and that will determine whether or not you will receive the grant, based on the grant donor's requirements.

Grants are basically free money and worth pursuing if you believe your small business fits the precise criteria for them. Bear in mind that even in that case, grants are extremely competitive, so you'll want to have other funding sources in mind, as well. 

U.S. Small Business Administration. " Grants ."

U.S. Small Business Administration. " State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) ."

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. " Small Business Programs ."

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. " Get Ready for Grants Management ."

U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development. " Business Programs ."

U.S. Department of the Treasury State Small Business Credit Initiative. " State Small Business Credit Initiative ."

Ohio Department of Development. " Ohio to Receive Funding to Support Small Businesses ."

Business Oregon. " Export Promotion Program ."

Council for Community and Economic Research. " State Business Incentives Database ."

U.S. Small Business Administration. " Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) ."

Amazon Business. " Amazon Business Small Business Grants 2023 ."

FedEx. " FedEx Small Business Grant Contest ."

FedEx. " 2023 FedEx Small Business Grant Contest Winners ."

Visa. " Visa's She's Next Grant Program ."

Visa. " IFund Women Visa She's Next ."

U.S. Small Business Administration. " Terms, Conditions, and Eligibility ."

U.S. Business Grants. " Eligibility Requirements ."

• Terms of Service
• Editorial Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Building Your Business

How To Find and Get Small Business Grants

Learn how grants work and the ways in which to receive them

How Small Business Grants Work

How to find small business grants, types of small business grants, how to apply for grants for your business, frequently asked questions (faqs).

PixelsEffect / Getty Images

Small business grants are sums of money awarded to businesses for various purposes such as economic development, job creation, or disaster relief by government and nonprofit organizations.

Grants essentially are free money, providing businesses of all types, sizes, ages, and industries with the resources to grow without requiring anything in return. Learn what grant opportunities are perfect for your business, including what types are available, how to find them, and how to apply for them.

Key Takeaways

• Small business grants are sums of money given for a particular purpose by government or nonprofit organizations for economic and business development.
• Grants don't require equity (a stake in your company), which means nothing is expected in return other than your time and effort to acquire them.
• Grants do not need to be repaid; however, your business must meet requirements to receive funding.
• You can find small business grants by browsing the websites or calling the offices of local, state, federal, and nonprofit organizations in your area.

Small business grants can be divided into two categories: those from the government (local, state, or federal) and those from private organizations. Many different types of small business grants are available, but not all grants are the same. Most grants are first come, first serve and based on need, so as long as you fulfill the requirements, you have a shot at receiving funding. Unlike traditional loans , which are available for any kind of business, your business must be eligible and match requirements for the specific grant you are applying for to receive funding.

How Much Funding Can You Expect to Receive?

Federal agencies, including the Small Business Administration (SBA), award billions of dollars every year in small business loans and grants to help fund startups, keep existing businesses thriving, and create jobs.

In 2021 alone, the SBA distributed nearly $416.3 billion in emergency relief aid through various grant programs to more than 6 million small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Small business grants can range from a few thousand dollars to a few million. Government programs from federal down to state and local can provide small business owners with grant funding, tax credits, free training, no-interest loans, and other financial perks. Private organizations such as nonprofits function similarly but on a smaller scale, and can provide grants, equity investments, no-interest loans, and patent protections to business owners.

Do You Have To Pay It Back?

As a small business owner, knowing the rules and regulations surrounding your grant funding, including what you need to do after receiving a small business grant, is essential. The short answer is no. Grants do not need to be repaid once you receive them from a government or nonprofit organization. Grants are free sums of money awarded to businesses in need.

There is no need for monthly repayments or interest charges; however, you are still responsible for any associated taxes that come with accepting the grant.

How Difficult Is It To Get Small Business Grants?

Many factors can complicate the process of applying for grants, including the grant itself, the level of competition, the longevity of the business, and how well you detailed your purpose for the grant. However, the SBA and most nonprofit grant organizations have resources to help guide you through the process. If you still run into difficulties, you can always turn to an attorney, business mentorship network SCORE, or nonprofit guide for help.

There are many ways to find small business grants. One way is to research online for funding opportunities. Government sites such as Grants.gov are excellent places to start your search because they offer the most variety of programs. However, there are also non-governmental sources where you can find grant programs.

One option is to ask your local chamber of commerce or other small business associations in your area about grant opportunities and where you can apply. Depending on your location, you can check out local and regional grant programs that focus on specific industries, such as manufacturing or tourism.

There are various ways to find small business grants, depending on the type of grant you are looking for. Local, state, and federal government agencies receive funding and offer resources to small business owners expressly for this purpose.

It can be helpful to reach out to these agencies about the grants available in your area or for your business type or demographic. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is also a helpful resource for locating grants that fit your business’s needs.

If you're looking to get support for your small business, keep in mind that there are many avenues to explore. Some funds are issued directly by the federal government, while others are distributed through state and local governments or private organizations such as nonprofits. After the funds are distributed, organizations then can use their funding to provide technical or educational assistance on a regional level.

Below are some examples of resources across government levels.

Local Grants

Since local grant programs generally have less competition than state and federal ones, they are excellent places to start. Search online for your local small business development center (SBDC) or economic development center. SBDC websites and SBA local chapter websites should have information on grants available for your business. Additionally, you can contact your district's elected officials' offices about grant funding in your area.

State or Regional Grants

You can find out if your business qualifies for any state or regional grants by checking out the SBA’s website and exploring its information on available grants and funding programs. Another place to check is your state’s economic development websites. You can also contact your elected state officials’ offices for more information on grant funding available. State grants generally have more competition than local grants, so apply early and make sure you meet eligibility requirements. For example, there is:

• U.S. Small Business Administration State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) : STEP offers financial assistance to small businesses seeking to export products. This grant program distributes federal funds through state agencies. Small businesses that meet the criteria set by each state can use the funds to participate in foreign trade shows, facilitate entry to foreign markets, develop websites, create products, and design international marketing campaigns.
• Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) grants : The MBDA is an agency subsidiary of the Department of Commerce and provides grants to promote the growth and competitiveness of minority-owned businesses .

Federal Grants

These grants can be the most competitive to apply for, but are available for a wide variety of recipients. Grants.gov is a great place to start while looking for federal grant programs for your industry or demographic. Federal grant programs include:

• Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) : SBIR and STTR are federal grant programs from the SBA that encourage small businesses to engage in research and development with the potential for commercialization and socioeconomic benefit.
• Boots to Business (B2B) : The B2B program provides entrepreneurship training, curriculum updates and program management support services for active military members, veterans, and their spouses.

Private Grants

The government is not the only provider of small business grants. Nonprofit organizations often provide funding for entrepreneurs starting or growing their business ventures. Private organizations, demographic-specific grants, and emergency economic development grants are also options. The type of small business grants available to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses vary greatly and include grants for women-owned businesses, minority-owned businesses, and veteran-owned businesses. Examples include:

• Fast Break for Small Business : LegalZoom has partnered with the NBA, WNBA, G League, and Accion Opportunity Fund to help out small business owners by offering $10,000 grants and up to $500 in LegalZoom services for small business owners. Applications are open twice a year.
• National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) : The NASE offers up to $4,000 for business development through its Growth Grants program.
• Amber Grants : Grants are awarded monthly in the Amber Grants program to women who want to fulfill their entrepreneurial dreams. Previous grant recipients have ranged from bakers to inventors.

What’s involved in the typical small business grant application process? The process for obtaining a small business grant has three main phases.

• The pre-award phase : Grant applicants look for and apply for funding opportunities, then wait as their applications are reviewed.
• Award phase : Grant organizations make award decisions and notify the recipients.
• Post-award phase : Grant funds are utilized, any required reporting is submitted, and the grant organization closes the application.

Applying for a small business grant as a sole proprietor can be daunting and varies in time and effort depending on the type of grant and the funding organization's requirements. However, in general, the following steps are taken: c

• Determine which grants are a good match for your business needs and goals. Research government grant programs and reach out to specific organizations that might be interested in funding your business.
• Gather the information and documentation the funding organization needs to evaluate your application, including your pitch, financial statements, employer identification number (EIN) , and business plan.
• Fill out the application form or submit your online application.
• Wait for a response from the funding source.
• Repeat this process until you receive the funding amount needed for your business.
• If required, report back on how your business used the funding.

Is a Grant Right for You?

With the vast number of options available for this kind of funding, many applicants can find a grant that suits their business needs. However, there are potential downsides to seeking grant funding, including the competition and the time it takes to acquire it.

If you own a small business, need funding, meet grant eligibility requirements, and have time to be patient, then grant funding is right for you. For businesses unable to meet eligibility requirements for government or private grants, or who can’t wait for funding, there are better options, such as small business loans or lines of credit , worth looking into for financing.

How do I qualify for a small business grant?

You can qualify for a small business grant if you are a small business owner looking to start and grow your business, and meet the granting organization's criteria. The organization granting the funds will often specify what it is looking for during the application process. Call its office or review its website for more information about grant eligibility requirements.

How long does it take to get a small business grant?

The length of time it takes to get a small business grant will depend on what type of funding you're applying for and which organization is supplying it. Grant approval and funding, whether from government agencies or  private foundations, can take several months to as long as a year. Keep in mind that some grants have eligibility windows that applicants can't miss. Find out the average wait time for the grant you are applying for and plan accordingly.

U.S. Small Business Administration. “ FACT SHEET: The U.S. Small Business Administration Is Delivering Support to America’s Small Businesses, Helping Them Recover From the COVID-19 Pandemic .”

U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “ 52 Grants, Loans and Programs To Benefit Your Small Business .”

Grants.gov. " Grants 101 ."

Grants.gov. “ How To Apply for Grants .”

Fifth Third Bank. “ 3 Steps To Apply for a Small Business Grant .”

New York State, Empire State Development. “ Meet Me in New York Grant Program .”

GetFundid. “ How Long Does It Take To Get a Business Grant? ”

Shop for Car Insurance

Other Insurance Products

Types of mortgages

Calculators

Find & Compare Credit Cards

Cards with Rewards

Cards for a Purpose

Cards for Building Credit

Credit Card Reviews

Understanding Credit & Score

Student Loans

Paying for College

Personal Finance for College Students

Life Events

Small Business Grants: Your Guide to Finding Funding

Small business grants provide financial aid without the burden of repayment, but obtaining them may be competitive. Federal and state agencies, corporations and industry-specific organizations may offer grant funding.

Quality Verified

Updated: March 15, 2024

• Small Business Grant
• Federal & State Grants
• Corporate & Private Grants
• How to Apply
• Specialty Grants
• Alternative Funding

Additional Resources

Advertising & Editorial Disclosure

Starting a small business is rewarding, yet securing initial funding is a common hurdle. Grants provide financial support without the obligation of repayment, but the allure of 'free money' typically results in stiff competition. As an entrepreneur, understanding the various types of grants, their advantages and limitations and the application process will help you secure grants that align with your business needs and increase your chances of acceptance.

What Is a Small Business Grant?

Small business grants are funds designed to support ventures that may not appeal to conventional lenders yet offer significant community value. These grants, sourced from government entities, private corporations and philanthropic organizations, are unique because they do not require repayment. The amount awarded can vary significantly, with some grants as modest as a few hundred dollars and others providing substantial support well over $10,000.

Grants vs. Business Loans: Key Differences

Grants may seem the ideal choice due to their non-repayable nature, but they come with their own challenges and stipulations. On the other hand, while requiring repayment, business loans can offer more flexibility and may be more accessible.

Federal and State Small Business Grants

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is a primary source for federal small business grants, providing various funding opportunities. These include grants and loans available through its Small Business Development Centers , many targeting businesses that focus on research and rural economic development. Numerous other federal and state agencies also offer specialized grant programs for small businesses.

Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR)

The SBIR program is a competitive grant initiative targeting small businesses engaged in research and development. Its goal is to stimulate scientific and technological innovation. The program is structured into three phases, each designed to serve distinct objectives and advance participants to the next stage of development.

Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR)

Like the SBIR, the STTR program emphasizes collaboration between research institutions and small businesses. A key feature of the STTR program is its requirement for the small business awardee and its associated institution to formulate an intellectual property agreement.

USDA Rural Business Development Grant

Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Rural Business Development Grant program aims to bolster small businesses in rural communities. It focuses on stimulating job creation and economic development and providing financial assistance to businesses that are pivotal in rural growth.

The USDA provides two grant types: Opportunity and Enterprise. Opportunity grants are limited to up to 10 percent of the total annual grant funding. Enterprise grants are for projects that benefit small and emerging businesses in rural areas, as specified in the application. To learn more about how these grants can be used, visit their website .

Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME)

The PRIME program offers federal grants to microenterprise development organizations. These organizations also assist disadvantaged microentrepreneurs.

State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)

The STEP program supports small businesses aiming to expand their reach into international markets. This program grants businesses involved in exporting, assisting them in participating in foreign-market trade shows and other global expansion opportunities.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Grants

The EPA Grants provide grants for small businesses striving to enhance the environment. These grants support innovative solutions and initiatives that address concerns such as air and water quality, pollution prevention and overall environmental quality.

Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grants

The EDA provides various programs, funding opportunities and grant competitions. Note that the EDA doesn't provide direct grants; you can review their funding options and apply accordingly.

National Institute of Food and Agriculture Grants

The NIFA provides grants to support small businesses within the agriculture and food sectors through three primary funding mechanisms: competitive, capacity and non-competitive. Competitive grant programs utilize a peer review process to select the best proposals from various institutions. Capacity grant programs help maintain research and extension capabilities within the Land-Grant University System. Non-competitive grant programs, mandated by Congress, support designated institutions in research, education or extension activities vital to state or regional needs.

Corporate and Private Grants for Small Businesses

Corporations and large companies often offer small-business grants as part of their philanthropic efforts. Some of these grants cater exclusively to nonprofits servicing industries. A significant number are also available to for-profit companies as well. While the application process might be more competitive, the potential rewards make it a valuable avenue for businesses seeking financial support.

How to Apply for Small Business Grants

Grant programs typically operate on annual cycles, announcing recipients well after applications are submitted. Given the fierce competition and precise eligibility criteria, it's helpful to understand the distinct requirements of each grant thoroughly. Using the steps below, you can start crafting a strategic application that effectively highlights the value and potential of your business.

Craft a Solid Business Plan

Many grants have specific application windows. Mark these dates and set reminders to ensure you start the application process well in advance. Set up alerts or regularly check grant websites to ensure you take advantage of new opportunities. Prepare a detailed business plan outlining how the grant funds will benefit your business.

Tailor Your Application

Review businesses that previously secured grants to gauge your chances. Avoid using a one-size-fits-all approach. For each grant, customize your application to address each grant's specific requirements and objectives.

Verify Eligibility

Have all necessary documents ready. This includes your EIN, DUNS number and revenue history. Also, double-check that you meet all the grant's eligibility criteria. This ensures your efforts are directed at viable opportunities.

Consider Professional Help

Local business organizations can guide you on grant applications. For substantial grants, consider hiring a professional grant writer. Their expertise can help articulate your vision and increase your chances of success.

Emphasize Innovation, Growth and Alignment

Focus on your business's innovative aspects and growth potential in your application. Highlight emerging technologies and how your business aligns with the grantor's mission.

Specialty Small Business Grants

Specialty small-business grants cater to distinct segments of the entrepreneurial landscape, ensuring that specific groups receive the support they need. These grants recognize their targeted demographics' unique challenges and offer tailored financial assistance. You can access resources that align closely with your needs by tapping into these specialized funds.

Small Business Grants for People From Racial Minority Groups

Entrepreneurs from racial and ethnic minority groups often face challenges in securing funding. Grants tailored for them aim to bridge this gap, offering recognition and financial support.

Small Business Grants for Veterans

After serving our nation, many veterans start a business . For veterans looking to kickstart or expand business ventures, the Veterans Business Outreach Center can be a valuable resource for finding support and assistance.

Small Business Grants for Women

Women entrepreneurs are making waves in business. There are grants tailored specifically for women-owned small businesses, aiming to bridge the funding gap and foster growth. Beyond these grants, local Women's Business Centers , with over 100 locations across the United States, offer invaluable resources and guidance. These centers can direct women entrepreneurs to additional grant opportunities or alternative funding avenues.

Alternative Funding Options for Small Businesses

Small business grants aren't always the most feasible or immediate solution for every entrepreneur. If you find yourself outside the grant eligibility circle or need quicker access to funds, there are several alternative avenues to explore.

Here are some resources that provide additional support and tools to bolster your business's success:

• General Services Administration : This independent agency provides resources to help businesses understand government contracting opportunities and how to market their contracts.
• Small Business Development Center (SBDC) : SBDCs ​​are corporate efforts that offer many services, including connecting businesses with potential small-business grants. Beyond grant assistance, they provide counseling, training and technical guidance on various business topics, from digital advertising to cybersecurity.
• State Business Incentives Database : This national database offers a user-friendly map feature, enabling business owners to select their state and instantly view available grants, tax credits and exemptions. Access is exclusive to members of the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). A basic C2ER membership, which grants access to the database, is priced at $362 annually.
• Small Business Digital Alliance : This co-sponsorship agreement between the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and Business Forward, Inc. provides a library of tools and resources for small businesses. They offer personalized resources for businesses.
• USBusinessGrants.org : This platform offers information on federal government grants with opportunities for various companies. The site emphasizes the limited small business grants provided by SBA.gov at the federal level.
• U.S. Department of the Treasury Small Business Resources : This platform provides links for reference and information related to small business programs. It does not endorse any non-government websites but offers a comprehensive list.

About Nathan Paulus

Nathan Paulus is the Head of Content Marketing at MoneyGeek, with nearly 10 years of experience researching and creating content related to personal finance and financial literacy.

Paulus has a bachelor's degree in English from the University of St. Thomas, Houston. He enjoys helping people from all walks of life build stronger financial foundations.

• American Association of University Women . " Current Funding Opportunities ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• Black Girl Ventures . " BGV Pitch ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• FedEx . " FedEx® Small Business Grant Contest ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• First Nations . " Grantmaking ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• Hello Alice . " $5,000-$25,000 Grants for Your Small Business ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• Lenovo . " Evolve Small Aid ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• National Association for the Self-Employed . " Growth Grants ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• National Black MBA Association, Inc. . " 2023 NBMBAA® Scale Up Pitch Challenge ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• SBIR.gov . " The SBIR and STTR Programs ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• Second Service Foundation . " Military Entrepreneur Challenge ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• Tory Burch Foundation . " The Fellows Program ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• U.S. Chamber of Commerce . " America's Top Small Business ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• U.S. Department of Agriculture . " Rural Business Development Grants ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• U.S. Economic Development Administration . " Funding Opportunities ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency . " EPA Grants ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• U.S. National Institute of Food and Agriculture . " Apply for a Grant ." Accessed November 20, 2023 .
• U.S. Small Business Administration . " Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• U.S. Small Business Administration . " State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• Venmo . " The Venmo Small Business Grant ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• Verizon . " Verizon Small Business Digital Ready ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• Veteran Affairs . " VR&E Self-Employment Track ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• Visa . " Visa Everywhere Initiative 2023 ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .
• WomensNet . " Apply Today for a $25,000 Amber Grant for Women ." Accessed September 20, 2023 .

3 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Applying for a Business Grant

It takes time and effort but can pay off in the form of capital that you do not have to repay.

Shortly after losing everything to a fire with my first company, I turned to pitching to and applying for grants to keep my business afloat. After doing some basic searches for grants related to my industry, I’d take a few hours per month to apply, a process that ultimately led me to win 22 of the 23 grants I went after and securing six figures in capital I didn’t have to pay back.

5 Grant Resources for Startups

• Hello Alice , an info hub for small businesses
• FedEx , which offers a yearly grant program (you must create an account to apply)
• Visa Everywhere Initiative , a grant competition for small businesses
• Ladies Who Launch , a grants database for women and non-binary founders
• NAACP’s grant database for Black founders

Any business that has between zero and $2 million in funding or revenue should consider applying for grants, especially before meeting with investors. Why? While working with investors means giving up equity in exchange for capital, grant money doesn’t need to be paid back. 

Applying for grants may seem time-consuming, but businesses that are at the idea stage or have up to $2 million in revenue or funding to date should take advantage of grant applications. It takes anywhere from one to three hours, on average, to apply for a grant less than $100,000 and anywhere from one to six months to find out whether you have received the grant.

The best part is that the questions for 95 percent of grant applications are similar in style and in format, so once you get to organizing your story, the problem, solution, go-to-market and more, you can almost copy and paste your answers for multiple opportunities, pending specific word and character limits.

I now coach founders in how to secure millions in grant money. Here are three questions I tell them to ask themselves before going for grant money.

more on the topic Here’s How 3 Startups Raised Money That Wasn’t Venture Capital

Does the Grant Make Sense for Your Business?

Not all grants are for all companies. For example, if you apply to the national FedEx grant competition, your company must be one that ships products because FedEx is a shipping company. This grant is a PR and marketing opportunity for FedEx (companies get a lot of media attention around their grants), so the company won’t want to promote a business that has no connection to shipping. 

Even if you think you’re familiar with an organization, spend an hour or so researching the particulars of its grant. Companies want to choose someone they can get behind, so understanding their motivations will be crucial. For example, if you’re applying for a grant promoting sustainability or climate change, but that is not part of your company ethos or you don’t plan to implement those kinds of initiatives, it wouldn’t be worth your time to apply. The grant selection process is supposed to be mutually beneficial; they are looking for you to make them look good and you are looking to them for credibility.

What Will You Do With the Money?

This is a question guaranteed to be asked in every application. The more detailed you can get about your use of funds , the more likely you are to impress them. 

Think about the impact of the allocation versus the sheer dollars going to random categories like marketing. If you were to spend a certain amount of dollars on specific marketing initiatives, what would that do for your business? If you used the grant for marketing , how exactly will that affect your revenue growth? If you use it to hire a new salesperson, how will that help you meet the company’s sales goals? If you spend it on a larger run of inventory, will it allow you to lower your costs? Get specific and quantify the impact.

more on alternative financing What Is Venture Debt? How Can It Support Diverse Founders?

Is It Worth It to Apply?

If you find yourself overwhelmed by a grant application, think of the payoff in terms of an hourly rate. If you’re applying for a $5,000 grant and it takes you two hours to apply, that’s like making $2,500 an hour if you get the grant.

It might seem like a lot of work at the onset, but it is well worth the one or two hours it might take to work through each application. Here’s a tip most founders don’t think about: Make a document recording every question and every answer you’ve submitted. Many times, you can batch apply, meaning you go back to your grant Q&A depository and copy and paste answers you’ve already used.

Here’s something else to remember: Grants are not always awarded in the form of money. Some organizations offer in-kind services. Others include credits for marketing, legal, printing or other business services that don’t have a cash value, per se, but still help drive the winner forward. These resources can lead to mentorship, introductions, partnerships and new business opportunities. 

For me, the process of applying for the grants was even more valuable than the actual capital that came with winning. Taking the time to write about my business forced me to get organized, while the organizations that put forth grant opportunities would typically offer mentorship or a network to further support businesses who apply.  When you’re mulling a grant application, remember that a little bit of effort can go a really long way. And who doesn’t love free money? Sure, it may take more time up front, but far less time and stress than fundraising and the best part is you’ll never have to pay your grant money back or give away equity to receive those funds.

Recent Expert Contributors Articles

Lot 1, La Penitence, Georgetown | 226-8120/23/35

Small Business Development Grants

SBB offers small business development grants to eligible clients. Currently the maximum value of each grant is GYD $500,000.

Eligibility

To be eligible for a small business development grant, the following requirements must be met:

§   Unemployed or employed by a private sector or non-governmental organization.

§   Owner(s) of a business or seeking to start a business.

§   Registered client(s) of the Small Business Bureau.

§   Submit copies of Business Registration, National Identification Card and certificate of Tax Identification Number.

§   Submit a complete business plan document (template provided by SBB).

§   Submit quotations for items to be purchased with grant funding.

§   Submit valid GRA and NIS compliance documents.

Grants Process

§   Client(s)completes grant application form and submits all required documents.

§   SBB reviews application and documents and interviews client(s).

§   SBB conducts a site visit of the business.

§   SBB submits grant documents to Grants Committee for review and approval.

§   SBB informs clients(s) of grant approval and invite client(s) to visit office to sign agreement.

§   Grant payment prepared, approved and disbursed to client(s).

§   Client(s) submits receipts of items purchased with grant funding.

§   SBB conducts monitoring and evaluation visits of business.

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

Startup Business Grants: Best Free Funding Options

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Startup business grants provide free funding to help small businesses grow without debt. Competition for small-business grants is fierce, however, and many awards require a minimum time in business — often at least six months.

In some cases, newer businesses or true startups may be able to access grant funding, but these options can be more difficult to find. Nevertheless, it can pay to know where to look for future financing.

Here are the best business startup grants, plus alternative funding sources to consider.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

Government startup business grants and resources

Some government programs offer direct business funding to startups looking for business grants, but those that don’t may point you in the right direction or help with applications.

Government agencies routinely post new grant opportunities on this centralized database . If you see an opportunity relevant to your business idea, you can check if startups are eligible. Many of these grants deal with scientific or pharmaceutical research, though, so they may not all be relevant to Main Street businesses.

State and local government grants

The federal government awards a variety of grant funding to other governments, like states or cities, or to nonprofit economic development organizations . Those entities then offer grants to local businesses. Plugging into your local startup ecosystem can help you stay on top of these opportunities. For example, New York state’s website offers a consolidated list of business grants and incubators organized by region [0] Empire State Development . Division of Small Business . Accessed Jan 2, 2024. View all sources .

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs

These federal grant programs are designed for businesses with innovative technology or scientific research ideas. Federal agencies list the types of research they’re hoping to fund, and if you think your idea qualifies, you can submit a proposal. Unsolicited proposals aren’t allowed.

Small Business Development Centers

These resource centers funded by the Small Business Administration offer business coaching, education, technical support and networking opportunities. They may also be able to help you apply for small-business grants, develop a business plan and level up your business in other ways.

Minority Business Development Agency Centers

The MBDA , which is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, operates small-business support centers similar to SBDCs. The MBDA doesn't give grants to startup businesses directly, but these centers can connect you with grant organizations, help you prepare applications and secure other types of business financing.

» MORE: Best small-business grants for minorities

Startup business grants from private companies and nonprofits

Many corporations and large nonprofits, like the National Association for the Self-Employed, offer startup business grants or organize grant competitions. Some national opportunities include:

Fast Break for Small Business

This grant program is funded by LegalZoom, the NBA, WNBA and NBA G-League and administered by Accion Opportunity Fund. You can win a $10,000 business grant plus $500 worth of LegalZoom services.

To qualify, you have to be U.S.-based business with at least three months in business. If you have less than three months in operation or haven't started your business yet, you can apply to receive a LegalZoom product of your choosing (up to $500).

Applications for the 2024 cycle are open until Sept. 13, 2024.

IFundWomen Universal Grant Application Database

IFundWomen partners with other corporations to administer business grants. The company generally focuses on small-business grants for women , but also offers startup grants, crowdfunding and coaching, among other resources.

You can fill out a universal application to receive automatic notifications when you’re eligible to apply for a grant.

Amber Grant for Women

WomensNet gives three $10,000 Amber Grants each month and three $25,000 grants annually. Although startups are eligible for all grants, one of the monthly $10,000 grants is specifically geared toward new businesses.

Filling out one application makes you eligible for all Amber Grants. To qualify, businesses must be at least 50% women-owned and based in the U.S. or Canada.

National Association for the Self-Employed Growth Grant

Join NASE, and you can apply for quarterly Growth Grant opportunities. There are no time-in-business requirements for these grants of up to $4,000, but you’ll need to provide details about how you plan to use the grant and how it will help your business grow.

Bizee’s Fresh Start Business Grant

If you plan to start a business — or have just launched a new endeavor, you may be able to get a $2,500 startup business grant from Bizee, formerly Incfile. Bizee’s Fresh Start Business Grant can be used to cover startup costs and also includes free formation services from the company.

To qualify, you’ll need to be at least 21 years old, a U.S. resident and planning to start or grow your business in a significant way. Applications require a sample business plan, as well as a two-minute video.

Bizee has not yet announced its next grant cycle, but updates will be posted to its website.

Venmo Small Business Grant

The annual Venmo Small Business Grant offers $10,000 grants to 20 business owners. This program also provides mentorship from industry leaders and the opportunity to be featured on Venmo’s social media pages.

To qualify, you need to have a U.S. Venmo business account in good standing. You also need to have fewer than 10 employees, less than $50,000 in annual sales and have sold $500 or more in goods and services at least three months before the start of the grant program.

You can receive the latest updates about the 2024 cycle through your Venmo business profile.

The Amplifier Grant

The Outrage is an activism organization that offers a $5,000 small-business grant to companies making a difference in their community. The Amplifier Grant is available on a seasonal basis; funding is awarded in January, April, July and October.

To qualify for this grant, you must be a business or organization actively working to make the U.S. a better place. The Outrage accepts applications from startups, grassroots organizations, and nonprofits, among other small businesses.

FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

This annual competition awards grants to small-business owners in a variety of industries. To be eligible, you’ll need to have been in business for at least six months, and have had an active FedEx business account during that same timeframe. One winner will receive a $50,000 grant, and nine additional small businesses will get $20,000 grants. The application window for this year's grant program closed on April 1, 2024.

Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program

The Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program is designed to provide funding, education and other resources to women-owned startup businesses.

Each year, the program chooses 50 small-business owners to participate in a yearlong initiative that includes workshops, networking groups, a $5,000 business education grant and a culmination presentation. Tory Burch Fellows participants also receive access to 0% interest loans through Kiva.

To qualify for this startup grant program, you must be a women entrepreneur who owns 51% or more of your business. You also must be an early-stage company (ranging from one to five years in business) that generates revenue (the program prefers a minimum of $75,000).

Applications are closed for the 2024 Fellow cycle, but you’ll be able to find updates for the following cycle on the Tory Burch Foundation website.

Small-business incubator programs

Business incubators or accelerators are designed to help companies in various phases of the startup stage — providing education, workspaces and mentorship. Some also provide funding in the form of grants, pitch competitions with cash prizes or access to investors upon completion of their program.

Although there are a range of programs for general startups, certain incubators target specific demographics, like underserved business owners. Head Boss in Charge Headquarters (HBICHQ), for example, is a Seattle-based nonprofit that serves women and minority-owned startup businesses. It offers merit-based grants for graduates of several of its educational programs.

Other programs are designed to offer support for certain industries. Accelerate Long Island , for instance, is a nonprofit designed to help high-growth biotech and health technology companies.

The program may provide startup grants to participants in conjunction with funding partners on a case-by-case basis, and it helps new businesses navigate New York state tax incentives and find workspace by partnering with local universities.

To find these types of institutions near you, you can do an online search for “[Your City] business incubator.” Even if you don’t see a grant program, it can be helpful to sign up for their email newsletter or follow them on social media. Like SBDCs and MBDAs, startup incubators often provide business coaching , courses and lectures that can help you develop and grow your business idea.

» MORE: How to fund your business idea

Alternatives to startup business grants

Finding and applying for new business grants can be difficult and time-consuming — plus, not all startups will qualify. If you’re looking for other ways to fund your business, you might consider these alternatives:

SBA microloans . These loans offer up to $50,000 to help your business launch or expand. So far in fiscal year 2024, the average SBA microloan is $17,083 [0] U.S. Small Business Administration . Microloans Summary Report . Accessed Apr 11, 2024. View all sources . The SBA provides microloans through intermediary lenders that administer, underwrite and issue their own microloans. As a result, SBA microloan requirements vary largely by lender. Many intermediaries are willing to work with startups, however. In fact, startup businesses received 25.3% of all SBA microloans issued in fiscal year 2024 [0] U.S. Small Business Administration . Microloans Summary Report . Accessed Apr 11, 2024. View all sources . You can find a lender in your state on the SBA's website .

Friends and family funding . Asking friends and family to provide an investment for your business is a common form of startup funding . This type of arrangement can place a strain on relationships, however, so you’ll want to be careful. You’ll want to define each person’s investment — is it a loan or are they getting equity in your business? If you’re receiving a small-business loan , you’ll want to lay out the rates and terms and detail how you’re going to pay it back. You should put all agreements in writing, if possible.

Business credit cards . You can qualify for a business credit card with your personal credit score and some general information about your business, like your business name and industry. Startup business credit cards often earn rewards for spending, making them great for daily expenses, but they aren’t typically suited for larger purchases. If you make a large purchase on your credit card and can’t pay it back right away, you’ll start accruing interest on your balance, which can become expensive and difficult to manage. Keep in mind that you’ll likely need to sign a personal guarantee with your application — which means you’ll be held responsible for paying back the debt if your business can’t.

Crowdfunding . If you have a dedicated customer base, they can help finance your business through crowdfunding. In exchange for capital, businesses usually offer something for their supporters, like debt notes, equity shares or access to an exclusive event. You can compare a variety of crowdfunding platforms that offer different terms, such as Kickstarter, Indiegogo and StartEngine, to find the model that works best for you.

Looking for a business loan?

See our overall favorites, or narrow it down by category to find the best options for you.

on NerdWallet's secure site

A business startup grant provides free capital specifically for new businesses, which can be used for a variety of purposes. Unlike small-business loans, grants offer access to funds that don’t need to be repaid.

You can find startup business grants at government and state agencies, private corporations and nonprofit organizations. In general, grants for startups can be more difficult to find, so it can be helpful to reach out to local business development centers for assistance.

To apply for a startup business grant, you’ll first need to make sure you meet all of the eligibility criteria. Then, you’ll need to take time to complete the application. Every awarding organization will have specific requirements and a unique application. You may decide to hire a grant writer to help you with the process.

On a similar note...

How to Write an RFP for Grants – Everything You Need to Know

Published: May 08, 2024

Beth Goldowitz, who’s been managing nonprofit organizations for the past 20 years, says that when “managed correctly, grants can keep organizations afloat. They’re stable and predictable, a revenue stream that the organization can count on for the duration of a contract.”

But do you know how long it takes to write a single grant application?

Over 30 hours, and considering that grant writers usually get paid between $25 and $100 per hour, depending on their experience, it’s a significant cost. That’s why it’s so important for nonprofits to decide which grants to pick.

Your organization can make it much easier for applicants to assess if they’re the right fit for your project. It all comes down to getting your RFP for grants right, including adding the right sections and asking the right questions.

Before I dive deeper into the subject, let’s answer the question: what is an RFP for grants?

What is an RFP for grants?

The challenges of writing an rfp for grants, the anatomy of an rfp for grants, how to write an rfp for grants, best practices for writing an rfp for grants, rfp for grants resources.

An RFP for grants, or Request for Proposals, is a document issued by grantors such as foundations and government agencies encouraging nonprofit organizations to submit proposals for funding.

Essentially, RFPs offer nonprofits an opportunity to secure funding for various initiatives, irrespective of whether they relate to education, healthcare, or environmental causes.

Each RFP is tailored to achieve a specific goal, so submitted proposals must be in line with the objectives outlined in the RFP.

I have spoken to a few people working at nonprofits to find out what challenges they came across, either while creating their own RFPs or preparing RFP proposals. Here are the most common obstacles.

Lack of Sufficient Information About the Procurement Process

The quality of your procurement process will impact the quality of the applications you receive. If you don’t share enough information about it, like the timeline, budget, selection criteria, etc., then two things might happen:

• You will receive applications that aren’t the right fit for the project.
• A lot of applicants who are the right fit won’t take part in the process as they’ll feel discouraged by the lack of clarity.

The more detailed and logical your procurement process is, the higher the chances of receiving high-quality proposals.

RFP Grants Failing to Communicate the Vision Clearly

This is an RFP grant challenge that has come up the most frequently.

Gauri Manglik, CEO and co-founder of Instrumentl , says that “many organizations struggle to articulate what specific issues they are trying to address and how the grant they offer will drive impact.”

What often happens is that RFP grant writers take a scattered approach instead of having a cohesive strategic framework. As a result, it’s hard for founders who give out grants to evaluate the proposal’s purpose and potential.

Manglik adds that “the most effective RFPs have a sharply defined focus outlining the goals, target population, and theory of change for proposed activities.”

Not Understanding the Legal Implications of the Grant

Grants often come with terms and conditions that must be followed to stay compliant. Failing to do so might result in penalties or even in grants being revoked.

These terms and conditions should be clear and easy to understand to minimize the risk of breaching them.

Jonathan Feniak, general counsel at LLC Attorney , says, “When writing RFP grant proposals, it’s crucial to understand the legal implications of the grant and factor any liabilities into your plan.

If any IP is developed with grant funding, you must specify ownership rights to avoid potential conflicts with donors later.”

Feniak also notes that proposals should clearly outline your expectations, and you must agree on whether the charity or the investor owns its rights.

“Generally, it’s best to consult your legal team throughout the RFP writing process to manage the risks and clearly outline IP ownership,” adds Feniak.

Ensuring clarity and specificity in the language used.

It’s vital to use a language that is not only clear but also specific so it’s easier for potential bidders to understand what’s expected of them. This applies to the requirements, objectives, and expectations of the project.

Kimberly Wall, co-founder of BibleKeeper , says, “The challenge lies in articulating the project’s goals, objectives, and expected outcomes clearly using words that are not really overwhelming the potential applicants with unnecessary details.”

Using the right language will eliminate confusion among nonprofits and make sure that their proposals accurately correspond to the needs of the RFP issuer.

Free RFP Templates

Fill out the form to get these templates.

• One-Pager RFP
• Longer In-Depth RFP
• Designed PDF RFP

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

RFPs for grants come in two forms: concise, short tables, where information is filled out in bullet points, and longer ones, which cover each section in detail.

The former aims to give a high-level overview, while the latter is where applicants take a deep dive into their proposal.

So, there isn’t such a thing as an “ideal” length for an RFP. These types of documents can take up multiple pages and usually function as downloadable PDFs.

If you’re wondering what elements grantors should include, then here’s an RFP structure we recommend at HubSpot.

RFP: [Project Name]

Proposal Due By: [Date]

[Organization Name]

In addition to the name, this section could also feature a short overview of your mission. Don’t include a long history of your organization. Instead, use this space to provide a bit of context on what it does and its target market.

Project Overview

A brief introduction to the project itself to let nonprofits know right away if it’s something worth bidding on — no longer than 1-2 paragraphs.

Project Goals

This section identifies what you hope to accomplish through assigning funds to relevant organizations. Specify what you’ll see as a “win” so everyone is on the same page.

Scope of Work

A description of the project and a scope of work — either detailed, if it’s a long RFP, or bullet points if it’s short.

Current Roadblocks and Barriers to Success

In this section, mention any potential constraints that could either disqualify certain candidates or increase the operational complexity of meeting goals.

Evaluation Metrics and Criteria

Here, you outline how you’re going to choose grantees. There are different approaches — some companies use simple “yes” or “no” evaluations to check if a proposal meets the project objectives.

Other organizations use percentages to score more important criteria higher than others.

Submission Requirements

Exact guidelines bidders must adhere to.

Project Due By

If there is a specific project delivery date, mention it in the RFP. This will help you filter out applicants who can’t guarantee completing it within the required timeline.

Here, you should include the target budget. Specify if this budget will be distributed among multiple organizations or assigned to a single grantee.

General Conditions of Contract

This could include information like:

• Applicant’s legal status.
• Your stance on subcontracting.
• Indemnification, insurance, and liabilities.

Some templates also suggest asking questions that you expect bidders to answer — these can serve as a way to further check their alignment with your mission.

So, now that you know what goes into an RFP, let’s learn how to write them. Below, I’ll describe the steps you should take when tackling this paperwork.

In each section, I’ll work through the steps, as I build a mock RFP for sustainability nonprofits.

My sample organization, Earthly Partners, is looking to fund sustainability projects based in the Southwestern United States. Let's get started.

1. Identify the objectives.

In this step, I want to list all the key information, like goals, timeline, budget, and applicant profile.

As you gather these, you’ll likely come across some informational gaps or considerations that require expert knowledge, like legal considerations and grantor/grantee obligations.

This is an important preliminary stage, which should end with a complete list of information you’ll need to evaluate bidders.

Testing It Out

So, what does my organization, Earthly Partners, want to accomplish? We want to focus on fighting climate change in the South West, particularly through drought relief and community advocacy.

We are able to provide grants of up to $50,000 to each nonprofit.

2. Write an introduction.

Now, I want to provide a bit of information about the organization and the area we focus on. I may also include my organization’s values, current challenges, and the problems we would like to address.

Here is an example of an intro to Earthly Partners’ RFP. Here, we highlight the mission that we focus on and a little bit about our mock organization’s history.

Earthly Partners is pleased to announce the availability of grant funding to support projects that align with our mission of environmental conservation and advocacy.

Established in 2010, Earthly Partners has been dedicated to promoting eco-friendly practices, water conservation, and community empowerment. We recognize the importance of fostering innovative solutions and collaborations within our community, and through this grant opportunity, we aim to support projects that demonstrate creativity, sustainability, and significant impact.

We are most interested in projects focused on community advocacy for climate policies and drought relief.

3. Provide a project description.

This section should serve as a high-level overview. Potential applicants will look at it to quickly assess whether they can propose a relevant project within the required timeline and available budget.

Here’s my project description for my mock sustainability nonprofit:

Grant Purpose: The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to solicit proposals for projects that address environmental conservation, climate change mitigation, or sustainable development.

We seek proposals that offer innovative approaches, foster community engagement, and contribute to the long-term sustainability and resilience of ecosystems and communities.

Grant Details:

• Total Funding Available: $50,000
• Grant Duration: 12 months
• Grant Amount: Grants may range from $2,500 to $10,000
• Eligibility: Nonprofit organizations and community groups operating within the Greater Metropolitan Area are eligible to apply.
• Application Deadline: July 31, 2024.

4. List clear requirements.

Here, I can specify what exactly I need to know about the proposal. That includes asking the applicants for the project description and how it will help fulfill the goals of your grant.

Continuing with the sustainability grant project from above, this section could look like the following:

Proposal Guidelines:

Applicants are invited to submit proposals that address the following key components.

• Project Description: Provide a detailed description of the proposed project, including its objectives, activities, target population, and anticipated outcomes.
• Project Impact: Clearly articulate the potential impact of the project on the environment or the local community. Describe how the project will contribute to positive change and address identified environmental or social needs.
• Innovation and Creativity: Highlight any innovative approaches or strategies proposed to address the identified environmental or social challenge. We encourage applicants to think creatively and propose solutions that may be outside traditional approaches.
• Sustainability: Demonstrate the project’s sustainability beyond the grant period. Describe plans for ongoing funding, partnerships, and stakeholder engagement to ensure the long-term success of the project.
• Roadblocks to Success: Identify potential challenges or roadblocks that the project may face and describe strategies to overcome them. Consider factors such as regulatory hurdles, community resistance, funding constraints, or technical limitations.
• Budget and Timeline: Provide a detailed budget that outlines how grant funds will be used. Include a project timeline with key milestones and deliverables.

5. Include a submission deadline.

Here, I want to call out the deadline for submissions and explain my preferred way of submitting proposals.

For Earthly Partners, I want to have proposals by the end of July. I call that out, along with my preferred submission format, below.

Submission Instructions:

Please submit your proposal electronically to [email address] no later than July 31, 2024. Proposals should be submitted in PDF format and include the organization's name, contact information, and the title of the proposed project in the subject line.

​​​​6. Be clear on the evaluation factors.

It’s important to explain all the elements your organization will pay attention to while evaluating applications.

Applicants who do not meet your criteria will likely withdraw from submitting their proposal if they don’t see they’re a good fit. This, in turn, will help you pre-qualify organizations and shorten the selection process.

For Earthly Partners, I want to explain how we plan to evaluate applicants and give an overview of next steps. This allows me to explain what projects are likely to receive funding and the timeline for these evaluations.

Evaluation Process:

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Alignment with Earthly Partner’s mission and grant objectives.
• Clarity and feasibility of the project proposal.
• Potential impact and sustainability of the project.
• Innovation and creativity of proposed approaches.
• Budget justification and cost-effectiveness.

Notification:

Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by August 31, 2024. Successful applicants will receive further instructions regarding grant agreements, reporting requirements, and funding disbursement.

7. Proofread and edit the document.

I use the editing process to make sure that all the necessary elements are included in my RFP and that the instructions are easy to follow.

Failing to use easy-to-understand language might result in low-quality submissions. It’s a good idea to ask a few of your colleagues for feedback to ensure you’ve not missed any important details.

Here are a few considerations to take into account while preparing your RFP.

Dedicate time to selecting the right eligibility and application criteria.

This is, arguably, the single most important section of your RFP — perhaps even more important than “budget,” as NGOs will want to quickly assess their eligibility.

Esther Strauss, co-founder of Step by Step Business , agrees:

“Given the diversity of causes we support, from education to environmental conservation, finding a grant that provides the necessary funding and also aligns with our goals can be like searching for a needle in a haystack.”

Strauss says that, whenever applying for a grant herself, she needs to know if her organization can genuinely meet the grantor’s requirements while staying true to the organization’s objectives and values.

The need to get the application “right” can also extend to selecting the right application format or method. “The pressure to get it right is immense, as these grants can significantly impact our ability to serve our community,” she adds.

So, how can you make it easier for applicants to assess if they’re the right fit and avoid application mistakes?

Include clear information like:

• Only bidders who meet at least X out of Y criteria will be considered.
• Proposals must be sent in [FORMAT] by [DEADLINE]. Applications sent in through other channels will not be considered.
• Application needs to include a proposed schedule.
• Proposals must be shorter than [NUMBER] pages. Failure to comply with this guideline will result in an automatic rejection.

For a real-life example, you can also look at this RFP proposal from the U.N. , which keeps the requirement descriptions clear and concise.

As you can see, the quality of the proposals and organization fit lies largely in your hands.

Image Source

Simplify negotiations by including key contract terms.

Earlier, I’ve mentioned that many RFP grant writers struggle with translating legal requirements in the RFP.

Wayne Tung of Sendero wrote a great piece on this subject, encouraging RFP publishers to give it the same level of attention as requirements and scope.

“Many people do not include contract term requirements, such as legal and commercial terms, in RFPs. This results in prolonged negotiations,” or even failed grants, he says.

Featuring the main contract terms in the RFP shows respect for both parties — you as the project operator and the organizations seeking funding.

Sometimes, fewer questions are better.

I spent quite some time going through Reddit threads popular among the RFP community, and one of the most interesting points I’ve seen was about question-fit.

One Redditor, roger_the_virus , blatantly says grantors should avoid “useless questions that won’t provide helpful answers. I do my best to make sure we’re not asking for a bunch of information we don’t need and won’t do anything with.”

That said, when it comes to questions, don’t automatically discredit applicants who can’t answer all of them. Offer organizations that have pitched a fitting project and budget the opportunity to ask follow-up questions.

This will prevent them from submitting answers with low informational value, i.e., responses that are vague or unrelated to your query.

Speaking of supplementary questions, this leads to the next point.

Provide clear contact information.

The larger your organization, the less likely it is that there will only be one person responsible for proposal reception and answering questions from applicants.

However, even if it’s an entire office, you should provide contact information with the relevant communication method — either walk-ins between a specific time, like Monday to Friday, email address, or phone number.

Bear in mind that many nonprofits apply to RFPs ongoingly and will only do so if they see that the grantor can help with applicant requests. Here’s an opinion on Reddit from an RFP proposal writer, which garnered multiple upvotes:

“I won’t respond to an RFP unless they commit to giving me their time for detailed discovery and a chance for them to read me the RFP requirements line by line and why they’re important.”

Disclose any potential blockers.

Finally, be transparent about any potential roadblocks winning bidders might come across.

When applying for grants, NGOs need to know if they have the means to complete the project and if there are any other issues, like conflict of interest.

For example, say your organization wishes to assign funds to boost literacy rates in remote rural areas. One of the prerequisites could be having established relationships within target communities.

Such an approach will help preselect applicants, particularly those who don’t have the operational capacity to navigate around any potential constraints.

Here are three resources that might come in handy while drafting an RFP for grants.

1. Candid’s Foundation Directory

Candid’s Foundation Directory shares essential information to help you make smart and strategic funding requests. These resources and tools give you access to funding opportunities that go beyond RFPs.

It includes a list of foundations, including their profiles, funding priorities, application procedures, and contact information.

RFP writers can go through the proposals that have been published already and use them as inspiration to create their own.

2. Free RFP Templates From HubSpot

HubSpot’s Free RFP templates are a great starter kit and will help you draft your request in no time.

This resource gives you two RFP versions — a shorter one and a longer one. Both documents are fully customizable, allowing you to easily add your company name and logo.

You can download them in PDF or turn them into a Microsoft Word or Google Docs file.

These templates include all the crucial elements of an RFP, such as:

• Company name and background.
• Project goals.
• Expected project timeline.
• Submission requirements.
• Evaluation criteria.
• Potential roadblocks.

Each section comes with a quick explainer to help you get the contents right.

Download HubSpot’s RFP Templates for Free

3. Reddit – RFP Subreddits

Unsurprisingly, Reddit is one of the best places to learn from RFP experts as well as understand the applicant’s perspective.

I especially recommend following the RFP subreddit and navigating into more intricate conversations and topics from there.

While many of the discussions cover not only grants but also commercial projects, the advice is universal.

It also goes without saying that you shouldn’t just lurk around the corner — if there’s a challenge you’ve come across while drafting your RFP, this is the community you should ask for advice.

Getting Your RFP for Grants Right

Writing the RFP is the first — and arguably — most important step in the entire grant process. How so? It’s up to you as the grantor to select the right questions and criteria and explain the purpose of the project.

Remember, the more information you provide potential applicants, the easier it will be for them to assess if they fit the grant objectives. And this, in turn, will lead to a higher quality of proposals.

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all template for each project, there are certain must-have sections to include. So, refer to this article to get a head start next time you need to create an RFP for grants.

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

Can Automation Help You Ace Your RFP? I Used AI to Find Out

RFP: How to Write a Strong Request for Proposal [Example & Template]

The Ultimate Guide to RFPs

RFIs: The Simple Guide to Writing a Request for Information

RFQ vs. RFP: What’s the Difference?

How to Win More Proposals by Interviewing Your Prospects

Why You Should Never Email a Proposal

The Right Way to Think About Your Marketing Software RFP [+Sample]

Free, Unique RFP Templates to Start Using Immediately.

Marketing software that helps you drive revenue, save time and resources, and measure and optimize your investments — all on one easy-to-use platform

FUND HER FUTURE

$100,000 in grants for women-owned businesses.

Applications accepted until May 26, 2024.

Women are one of the fastest-growing segments of new small business owners, but often lack access to funding and resources.

Block advisors by h&r block is providing $100,000 in grants, plus small business services.

One grand prize winner will receive a small business grant of $50,000. Additional finalists will receive a grant of $12,500. All winners will also receive services from our experts:

Small business taxes

Bookkeeping.

Business structure analysis

How it works

See if you’re eligible.

If you’re a majority woman-owned business, you’re off to a good start. * Go to disclaimer for more details

Submit application

Tell us about your business and submit your application by May 26, 2024.

See results

Stay tuned – we will notify all five grant winners by June 30, 2024.

All winners will also receive these small business services

File with a small business certified tax pro and get 100% accuracy, guaranteed . 

Pass your books off to the professionals so you can spend more time doing what you love. 

Our pros will help you automate paydays, stay compliant, and streamline end-of-year filing. 

Business structure

We’ll analyze your business structure to make sure you’re set up for success. 

Small business success stories

We aim to empower small business owners, so they can keep doing what they love and positively impact their communities. Hear from the entrepreneurs who’ve set their business up for success with Block Advisors. 

Block Advisors Small Business Highlight: Beyond Boundaries Consulting, LLC

A conversation with Dr. Tomicka Wagstaff and Stephanie Paredes, Small Business Tax and Bookkeeping Clients | Rochester, NY

Small business owner celebrates LLC formation milestone

This Women’s History Month, Block Advisors reflects on and honors the contributions of Women entrepreneurs and small business owners. 

LGBTQ+ Small Business Owner Spotlight: Tyra Dizon-Clark’s Niche Passion Leads Her to a Bright Future

At Block Advisors, we’re built for small businesses. All small businesses.

Ready to learn more?

Stay up to date on H&R Block small business grants, Block Advisors business services, and other ways to set your business up for success. 

Great to hear from you.

Thanks for sending us your email address. Be on the lookout for more info on how Block Advisors can help with your small business needs.

Fund Her Future Grant Frequently asked questions

What is the fund her future grant.

Fund Her Future, H&R Block’s Business Grant for Women, provides funds and services to empower women-owned businesses—particularly those focused on making a difference in their communities—to reach their full potential.

Women are one of the fastest-growing segments of new small business owners in the US. However, women founders often face unique barriers to accessing the funding and resources required to truly succeed in their ventures. 

Block Advisors by H&R Block is addressing these challenges providing more than $100,000 in grants and services to five (5) women-owned businesses in 2024. One (1) first prize winner will receive a grant of $50,000. Four (4) additional honorable mention winners will receive a grant of $12,500. All winners will also receive access to a year of small business services, such as business structure analysis, bookkeeping, payroll, Beneficial Ownership reporting, and tax support, from the experts at Block Advisors. This program aligns with the Block Horizons 2025 commitment to support 500,000 small businesses in the United States.

What are the prizes?

One (1) first prize winner will receive a grant of $50,000. Four (4) additional honorable mention winners will receive a grant of $12,500. All winners will also receive access to a year of small business services, such as business structure analysis, bookkeeping, payroll, Beneficial Ownership reporting, and tax support, from the experts at Block Advisors.

Who can apply?

Generally, the grant program is open to small businesses with at least 51% female ownership whose owners are 18 years or older and living in the U.S. Exclusions may apply. Please see Official Rules for detailed eligibility.

What is the application timeline?

Applications open Monday, April 29, 2024, and the application deadline is Sunday, May 26, 2024, at 11:59 pm CT. Winners will be notified by June 30, 2024. 


Following the notification process, grant winners will be onboarded with a Block Advisor small business expert who will facilitate their service package starting in July 2024. The first 50% of each grant is expected to be awarded on or around July 1, 2024, and the second 50% on or around September 30, 2024.

How will grant winners be selected?  

The general application, selection, and notification process includes the following steps and criteria: 

Application: A complete application must be submitted by an eligible business owner before the deadline of May 26, 2024, at 11:59 pm CT through our online application form .

Finalists Selection: The selection committee will evaluate submissions based on criteria included in the Official Rules. All eligible submissions will be reviewed and the applications that best align with the grant's goals will be chosen to proceed to the next stage. Up to 20 finalists will be chosen by a selection committee and notified via email or telephone, using the contact information provided on the submission form.

Winners Selection: Finalists must participate in a virtual video interview with members of the selection committee. Winners will be selected based on the strength of their virtual interviews and their overall application responses. The selection committee will identify five (5) winners: one (1) first prize winner and four (4) honorable mention winners.

Participation Agreement: All winners will be notified by June 30, 2024, via email or telephone, using the contact information provided on the submission form. They will be asked to review, sign, and return a participant agreement to accept and confirm their participation in the Fund Her Future grant program.

What can I expect when I apply?

The application should take about 2 hours to complete, not including preparation time. The application will gather information about the owner, the business, the owner’s small business journey, and the intended use, measurement, and impact of the grant funds and services received. Formats include multiple choice, yes/no, research-style, and short essay questions. These questions – especially the short-form questions – are an opportunity for you to differentiate your small business from other applicants. Examples of questions in the application include:

• Owner information: name, gender, contact
• Business information: type, size, sector, annual revenue, location
• Business journey: motivations for starting your business, barriers faced
• Grant use, impact, and measurement: how you intend on using the grant to achieve your small business goals, how this may impact your community, how
you will measure your success

Please make time to submit your application in one sitting, as you will not be able to save your application nor edit your responses after submission. Consider taking a screenshot of the confirmation screen because a confirmation email will not be sent. You will, however, be able to download a copy of your responses after submission. 

• See this report for information on the 2024 Impact of Women-Owned Businesses.
• Potential savings based on estimated tax savings of sole proprietor (Schedule C) users with over $40,000 in profit in 2022 by taking an S Corp election and filing in 2023, net of salary payments and payroll taxes. Election must generally be made by the due date of the return for the year prior to the year the S Corp election is to take place. Savings requires payment of a reasonable salary. Other requirements apply, and additional fees like tax preparation and payroll services are not included. Individual tax savings will vary based on your circumstances. All tax situations are different. Taxes are only one consideration in determining whether to form a business. You may want to seek the advice of an attorney to evaluate all of the relevant considerations. Block Advisors Business Formation Products and Services provide automated online tools that you can use to help meet your business formation needs and are not tailored to your particular situation. See our FAQs for more information .
• See Terms and Conditions for details. H&R Block does not provide legal representation. Business tax audit support does not include reimbursement of any taxes, penalties, or interest imposed by tax authorities.
• With our Tax Subscriptions, you may prepay the fee for tax preparation of your 2023 federal tax return(s) to be prepared in 2024. The Tax Subscription locks in that fee and includes additional products and/or services, such as Peace of Mind® (only available on federal 1040 returns) and/or Business Tax Audit Support related to the 2023 federal tax return(s) as well as estimated quarterly tax payment services. Tax Subscription pricing is independent of, and may be higher than, our standard pricing. Fees are non-refundable except within the first 30 days following your purchase. Cumulative monthly pay options are higher than corresponding pay in full options. Additional terms and conditions apply. Available at participating locations.
• MyCorporation® is solely responsible for the services it provides to you, and you are responsible for setting up a separate account with MyCorporation and completing the incorporation documents. Block Advisors, a part of H&R Block, does not assist in preparing or filing incorporation documents. The choice of entity for a small business is an important decision, and financial calculations are only some of many factors to consider. The information on this site is not intended to be legal advice or specific to any situation. We recommend that you seek the advice of an attorney about the implications of entity selection. Neither MyCorporation nor Block Advisors provides legal advice.
• We do not provide legal advice. The choice of entity for a small business is an important decision, and taxes and other financial considerations are only some of many factors to consider. The information on this site is not intended to be legal advice or specific to any situation. We recommend that you seek the advice of an attorney about the implications of entity selection.
• Up to 30% savings claim based on average savings based on national average fees for Federal Form 1040 plus Schedule C and one state filing in latest available 2020 survey conducted by the National Society of Accountants. All tax situations are different. Pricing will vary based on individual circumstances.
• Comparison based on national average of accountant hourly fees in 2020 for “QuickBooks or bookkeeping advisory services” ($109) compared to our full-service bookkeeping hourly rate ($50). Data based on a 2020 survey conducted by the National Society of Accountants. Prices may vary.
• If H&R Block makes an error in your bookkeeping that requires a reopening of your books for any month, we will correct the error for the month the error occurred at no additional charge. Limitations apply. See blockadvisors.com/guarantees for complete details.
• Up to 50% savings claim based on average savings based on national average fees for Federal Form 1065, 1120, and 1120S in latest available 2020 survey conducted by the National Society of Accountants. All tax situations are different. Pricing will vary based on individual circumstances.
• Our Year-Round Tax Planning services cover the following income tax strategy and planning services that you may select for each of three one-on-one sessions: Business check-up, financial review, estimated quarterly tax payment review, expense tracking and recordkeeping education and advice, income tax filing readiness review, and income tax tips and education relating to accounting methods, cost of goods sold, tax deductions, withholdings, sales tax, and Form 1099. Additional terms and conditions apply. We are not attorneys or a law firm and we do not provide legal advice or legal services, nor do we provide financial advice or investment recommendations, as part of our Year-Round Tax Planning services. You should consult an attorney and/or your own financial and investment advisors where appropriate.
• Block Advisors and H&R Block services and pricing are available virtually and at participating locations. Additional terms and conditions apply. Your Block Advisor or H&R Block accountant may not be a licensed accountant.
• See https://www.federalregister.gov/ for information on businesses impacted by CTA.
• We are not a law firm or attorneys and our advice, products, and services are not a substitute for those of an attorney or law firm. This site provides general information that should not be construed as legal advice. You may want to consult with an attorney to confirm your BOI reporting obligations.
• For assisted tax prep, if Block Advisors makes an error on your return, we will reimburse you for any resulting penalties and interest. For DIY tax prep, if Block Advisors online tax preparation software makes an error on your return, we will reimburse you for any resulting penalties and interest up to a maximum of $10,000. Limitations apply. See https://www.blockadvisors.com/guarantees/ for full details.
• Discount valid for an original 2023 personal income tax return for new clients only, and may not be combined with any other offer or promotion. A new client is an individual who did not use Block Advisors or H&R Block to prepare his or her personal income tax return within a year from the date of the 2023 personal income tax return preparation. “File with a tax pro” offer available at participating U.S. offices. Additional terms and conditions apply.
• You’ll receive up to a $20 reward for each new client you refer that purchases a 12-month bookkeeping service, for a maximum of $300. A new client is someone who did not utilize H&R Block or Block Advisors’ bookkeeping services within the past year. The reward will be delivered for each new client after they purchase a 12-month bookkeeping service with H&R Block or Block Advisors. Rewards will be provided on virtual cards and are only available to individuals who provide a valid email address.
• Valid at participating U.S. offices for $150 off for full-service bookkeeping for new clients only. Valid 12-month engagement letter required. After the application of the discount in this offer, you will be charged monthly at the amount in the engagement letter. Discount may not be combined with any other offer or promotion. Void if transferred and where prohibited. Coupon must be presented prior to start of bookkeeping services. A new client is an individual who has not used H&R Block or Block Advisors for bookkeeping services. No cash value. H&R Block employees are excluded. Expires Dec. 31, 2024. ©2024 HRB Tax Group, Inc.
• The decision to form a business entity is an important one that includes many considerations. You may want to seek the advice of an attorney to evaluate all of the relevant considerations. Block Advisors Business Formation Products and Services provide automated online tools that you can use to help meet your business formation needs but are not specifically tailored to you or any particular situation.
• Example savings based on average estimated tax savings of sole proprietor (Schedule C) with $37,000 in profit in 2022 compared to a similar S Corp election paying a reasonable salary of $14,600. Savings are net of salary payments and payroll taxes. Additional fees like tax preparation and payroll services are not included. Individual tax savings will vary based on your circumstances. All tax situations are different.
• Our small business tax professional certification is awarded by Block Advisors, a part of H&R Block, based upon successful completion of proprietary training. Our Block Advisors small business services are available at participating Block Advisors and H&R Block offices nationwide.
• Example savings based on average estimated tax savings of sole proprietor (Schedule C) with $50,000 in profit in 2022 compared to a similar S Corp election paying a reasonable salary of $25,000. Savings are net of salary payments and payroll taxes. Additional fees like tax preparation and payroll services are not included. Individual tax savings will vary based on your circumstances. All tax situations are different.
• Example savings based on average estimated tax savings of sole proprietor (Schedule C) with $80,000 in profit in 2022 compared to a similar S Corp election paying a reasonable salary of $30,000. Savings are net of salary payments and payroll taxes. Additional fees like tax preparation and payroll services are not included. Individual tax savings will vary based on your circumstances. All tax situations are different.
• See our Official Rules for more information.

7 Government Small Business Grants to Apply For in May 2024

Seeking funding is a right of passage for many small business owners. While there are endless private and government-backed loans to choose from, if you’re looking to evade strict repayment terms and steep interest rates, it could be worth considering government business grants.

Government business grants are financial awards issued by federal, state, or local authorities. There are thousands of grants up for grabs through government website portals, but since this type of financing is designed to support the public, their eligibility criteria tend to be quite specific.

If you’re interested in pursuing this type of finance, we round up some government grants small businesses can apply for in May, including their specialisms, funding limits, and deadlines. We also offer some advice for writing your application, to make sure your proposal is as competitive as possible.

In this guide: 

Government Small Business Grants to Apply For in May 2024

Tips for perfecting your government grant application.

Get the latest tech news, straight to your inbox

Don't miss out on the top business tech news with Tech.co's weekly highlights reel

By signing up to receive our newsletter, you agree to our Privacy Policy . You can unsubscribe at any time.

There are thousands of government funds to apply for. If you want to cut through the noise, take a look at some of the most popular options below:

• Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program
• Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program 
• Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting program
• 8(a) Business Development Program 
• HUBZone Program
• Small State Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)
• U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)

1. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program

• For: Small businesses interested in carrying out innovation research
• Funding limit: Over $2 million
• Deadline: September 5, January 5, and April 5

The Small Business Innovation Research program was designed by the Small Business Administration to encourage US businesses to engage in Federal research and development. The competitive program is open to select small businesses and specifically encourages participation from women and socially or economically disadvantaged persons.

To be eligible for the SBIR program, your business must be for profit, be over 50% owned by permanent residents of the US, and have fewer than 500 employees. To apply for the grant, you need to register your business with SBIR, if you haven’t already, submit a proposal before one of the program’s tri-annual deadlines, and then respond to feedback and refine your concept if necessary.

Learn more about the SBIR grant, and how to apply here .

2. Small Business Technology Transfer  (STTR) programs

• For: Small businesses that have paired up with a research institution

Like the SBIR, the Small Business Technology Transfer program is a government program focused on developing innovative solutions to pressing problems across the US. This type of funding aims to facilitate cooperative research and development efforts research between small business concerns and non-profit US research institutions, with the potential for commercialization of innovative technological solutions.

However, unlike the SBIR, this program requires the small business applicant to be teamed up with a non-profit research institution already, which typically takes the form of a university or Federal Laboratory. The STTR program is also focused on the transfer of technology from the research institution, rather than just the research alone.

Aside from being paired with a research institution, STTR’s eligibility criteria are nearly identical to SBIR’s.

Learn more about the STTR grant, and how to apply here .

3. Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program

• For: Women-owned businesses
• Funding limit: $4 million for service contracts and $6.5 million for manufacturing contracts
• Deadline: Rolling

The Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program was designed to build a level playing field for female business owners. The contracts are designated for specific industries where female-owned businesses are underrepresented. You can see which industries are eligible for the grant program here .

To be eligible for this program, you need to run a small business, have the business be at least 51% owned and controlled by US women, and have an economically disadvantaged woman manage the day-to-day operations and make long-term decisions.

Learn more about WOSB, and how to apply here.

4. 8(a) Business Development Program

• For: Socially and economically disadvantaged business owners
• Funding limit: $7 million for acquisitions assigned manufacturing NAICS codes and $4.5 million for all other acquisitions

The 8(a) program is a nine-year program created by the SBA to financially support firms owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. It’s designed to span nine years and helps eligible businesses access new business paths from government contracting.

Since the creation of the program in 1970, it has helped disadvantaged businesses gain access to billions of dollars in funding. To be eligible for the government grant, you must run a small business, be at least 51% owned and controlled by US citizens who are socially and economically disadvantaged, have a personal net worth of under $805 thousand, and demonstrate good character.

Learn more about the 8(a) business development program, and how to apply here .

5.  HUBZone Program

• For: Small businesses in historically under-utilized business zones
• Funding limit: $3.5 million for products and services, and $5.5 million per contract for manufacturing

The HUBZone program is a SBA initiative designed to promote economic development and job growth in historically underutilized business zones (HUBZones). The program does so by offering financial grants to business owners operating within these communities.

To be eligible for this business grant you need to run a small business, have the business be at least 51% owned and controlled by a Community Development Corporation, an agricultural cooperative, an Alaska Native corporation, a Native Hawaiian organization, or an Indian tribe, have its main office located in a HUBZone, and have at least 35% of it employees living in the HUBZone for at least 45 days before applying.

Learn more about the HUBZone program, and how to apply here .

6. Small State Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)

• For: Small businesses run by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals
• Funding limit: $20 million

The Small State Business Credit Initiative is a federal program designed to support entrepreneurship across the US. The grant program is provided by the US Department of the Treasury and was expanded by President Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act in 2021, providing an extra $10 billion in funding to eligible businesses.

In addition to providing capital support to small businesses, SSBCI can also provide technical assistance to eligible businesses through its Technical Assistance (TA) Grant Program. The SSBCI is available to businesses owner-occupied small businesses with 500 employees or less, and is specifically tailored to small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged (SEDI) owners and very small businesses with less than 10 employees.

Learn more about the SSBCI program, and apply here .

7. U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)

• For: Small businesses run by minorities
• Funding limit: Up to $350,000 for the first 10 months

The U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is a Federal grants program designed to promote the growth of minority-owned businesses. The ultimate aim of the program is to provide minority business enterprises (MBEs) with access to funds, contracts, and market opportunities both in the US and globally.

To be eligible for MBDA assistance, a business must be owned or controlled by one or more socially or economically disadvantaged persons. The majority of business owners must also identify as racial minorities.

To apply for an MBDA business grant, you need to register your business with SAM.gov and Grants.gov if you haven’t already, align your proposal with the stated requirements, and submit your application before the deadline.

Learn more about the grant, and how to apply here .

Government grants offer a golden opportunity to businesses looking to grow or recover their business. However, due to the competitive nature of the financing, you need to ensure your grant proposal is polished and stands out from the crowd.

We understand that writing a grant application might seem like a daunting process, especially if you’re a first-timer. So, to give your proposal the best chance possible of succeeding, take heed of these pointers below.

• Give yourself enough time –  You don’t want to be writing a grant application against the clock. Writing a proposal can take much longer than you expect, so to account for unexpected hold-ups we recommend giving yourself at least 45 days to complete your written application.
• Follow the instructions carefully – Don’t go off-piste when writing your application. Make sure you include all the information requested by the agency, and present it in the correct format.
• Be as concise and clear as possible – Ensure your application is written in clear, simple language, and use as many candid examples as possible to paint a clear image for your reader. If you use any graphs or imagery, make sure you label them clearly as well.
• Keep the audience in mind – The likelihood is that the reviewer won’t already be familiar with your business. To make sure you won’t gloss over necessary information write the proposal for an audience that’s hearing about your business for the first time.
• Develop a proofreading strategy – You don’t want to hamper your application’s success with silly mistakes like typos or grammatical errors. So, to ensure your proposal looks polished carefully proofread the application or outsource the service to a professional.

Stay informed on the top business tech stories with Tech.co's weekly highlights reel.

We're sorry this article didn't help you today – we welcome feedback, so if there's any way you feel we could improve our content, please email us at [email protected]

Written by:

11 Small Business Grants and Loans to Apply For in 2024

Getting a financial boost could be easier than you think,...

Company Offering $10K for a 30 Day Phone Detox, Apply Now

If you think you've got what it takes to do a one-month...

9 Innovative Startups To Watch Out For in 2024

Discover the startups that have triumphed over adversity in...

Claude 2.1: Anthropic’s ChatGPT Rival Gets New Killer Feature

As OpenAI hits the headlines for all the wrong reasons,...

BUSINESS PLANS FOR GRANT APPLICATIONS

There is a multitude of government funded financial supports available to Irish businesses. ​These grants are administered by bodies such as the Local Enterprise Office and Enterprise Ireland. Often entrepreneurs or their businesses must meet specific criteria in order to avail of the schemes on offer.

However, regardless of what grant you apply for, you will usually be required to produce a business plan. Putting one together can be a tedious and complex process. Business writing and financial projections might be completely new to you or you might just not have the time.

This is where Irish Business Plans comes in. We have extensive experience preparing business plans for grant applications. We strive to write your document and prepare your financial forecasts in a time-frame that meets your needs and budget.

THE PROCESS IS EASY

Initial Call

Information Gathering

First Draft

Final Draft and Handover

We pride ourselves on preparing high quality business plans and financial forecasts at affordable and competitive prices.

The cost of your plan will depend on the level of detail required and your target audience. For example, standard microfinance applications start at €490 while plans for grant applications begin at €890.

Business plans for investment opportunities and grant applications are costed on a case-by-case basis.

For more price information please click here . 

HOW MUCH IT COSTS

Our job is to take the hassle out of writing your business plan.

This involves five simple steps:

Click here for more details on the process.

OUR BUSINESS PLANS INCLUDE

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The executive summary is effectively a synopsis of the entire business plan. It captures the essence of the business, setting out the rationale and logic behind the likelihood for its success.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

This will outline details such as the business structure and ownership. It will cover the company history and future vision.

PRODUCTS OR SERVICES

What are your products or services? What problem are you solving for your customers? This section elaborates on these topics and goes into detail on your business offering.

MARKET OVERVIEW

Who is the business selling to? Who are its competitors? What forces are influencing the market? How will the company build and sustain a competitive advantage? What research have you done?

SALES MODEL

The company’s sales forecasts are outlined here. We will also cover pricing, cost of sales and any other factors relevant to your sales model. We simulate sales forecasts using both tables and easy to read graphs.

How will you promote your business? Here we focus on the promotional elements of your marketing mix. We detail the tools and methods you will use to win customers and achieve a competitive edge.

FINANCIAL SECTION

This is a critical part of your plan. We will include professionally prepared and presented trading projections, profit and loss forecasts and monthly cash-flow statements where required. More complex business plans will contain balance sheets..

OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT

Investors don’t invest in ideas, they invest in people. Can you actually accomplish what you have planned? Do you have the right team in place to turn a good idea into a great business? Here, we answer these questions.

Click here to see more detail on what your plan will include.

FIND OUT HOW

We  can help.

Click here  to organise a free and no obligation

chat about your project

Thanks! Message sent.

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Alastair harte (owner operator), body image health & fitness cork fitness industry.

The turnaround time was fast. The value for money was excellent. I was very satisfied with the end product. My business partner and I had been trying to write our own plan for 2 months. I’m very happy we found this service. We will use it again when needed. I'd give a 10/10 rating.

Modestas Juskauskus (General Manager)

Bronze iron art meath engineering industry.

We have used a lot of services from this company over the past three years. Business plans for county development grants, proposals for planning permission, and help with tender preparation and bids for projects through the e-tender website. Every time these guys provide a top-quality service.

Agnieszka Pietciewicz (Owner)

Fragola café kilkenny restaurant sector.

Number one, I’m Polish, so I didn’t have the confidence to prepare my own English plan. Number two, I’m not an accountant, so I couldn’t prepare cash flow forecasts. I know my own business though, and I’m so happy I found this business to help me with the technical side of raising finance.

Progressive ® Driving Small Business Forward: $50K Grants

Applications are now open for the Progressive®   Driving Small Business Forward grant program , in collaboration with Hello Alice ! 

This year, Progressive is dedicating $1 million to award 20 deserving businesses with a $50,000 grant each. Grant recipients will also be invited to attend an exclusive 12-week virtual Boost Camp coaching program, designed to equip business owners with the tools and resources to help them achieve their growth objectives.

To qualify for the grant program, you must be an entrepreneur who is the leading executive of a business that meets the below business criteria:

• Have 10 or fewer employees and less than $5M in annual gross revenue;
• Be a for-profit business located and registered in one of the fifty United States and the District of Columbia; excluding U.S. Territories;
• Have a demonstrated need for a qualifying commercial vehicle to run your business and a clear plan for growth as a result of this vehicle purchase;
• Not be an independent contractor whose primary business is for a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft, or third-party food delivery such as UberEats, DoorDash, PostMates, Grubhub, Instacart, etc;

No purchase necessary. 18+, U.S. only. For official rules and how to enter, see the Terms and Conditions and FAQs .

Application Timeline

The Progressive ® Driving Small Business Forward grant program will accept applications from April 29, 2024 at 9 a.m. ET to June 14, 2024 at 6 p.m. ET.  Applications will be reviewed by a committee in accordance with the review criteria outlined in the official Terms and Conditions . Recipients will be notified by email and publicly announced in August 2024. 

About Progressive Commercial Insurance 

With over 50 years of experience, Progressive Commercial Insurance offers a full range of business insurance products featuring competitive rates and first-class service. They offer customized insurance solutions for both heavy and light commercial vehicles, as well as business insurance coverages including general liability and business owners policies, professional liability, workers’ compensation and more. Progressive is a Fortune 100 company and trusted by thousands of small business owners to protect their livelihood.

*Ranked as the No. 1 commercial auto insurer based on SNL Financial’s 2022 National Written Premium Data.

Cookie Consent

Hello Alice uses cookies to make your experience even better. By clicking "Accept All" , you consent to the use of ALL cookies outlined in our Cookie Statement , Privacy Policy , and Terms of Service .

Office of Minority and Women's Business Enterprises

Certification Portal |  Contact Us     Facebook     Twitter     LinkedIn

• Start or Renew your Federal or State Certification
• State Certification
• Federal Certification
• Veteran Owned Business Certification
• Certification Eligibility
• Business Changes FAQ
• Certification Complaints
• Public Works Small Business Enterprise
• Initial Investment Fact Sheet
• North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) Codes and Business Descriptions
• Ownership Interest Fact Sheet
• Personal Net Worth Fact Sheet
• Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Fact Sheet
• Documents Needed Fact Sheet
• Directory of Certified Businesses
• Tools for Equity in Public Spending
• Supplier Diversity Best Practices
• Supplier Diversity FAQs
• Agency Reports and Plans
• Educational Institution Reports
• What is Counted in the Report
• Supplier Diversity Newsletter
• Partner Resources
• Glossary of Terms
• Access Equity - Your Business Diversity Management System
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Business Diversity Subcabinet Latest Updates
• 2019 Disparity Study
• Washington State Roadmap to Contracting Equity
• Overview of the Governor's Subcabinet on Business Diversity
• Doing Business with Government
• Bids & Contracting Opportunities
• Subcontracting Business Tips
• Linked Deposit Program
• Surety Bonds
• Marketing Tips
• Business Resource Newsletter
• Calendar of Events
• Small Business Guide
• Certifications
• Money & Loans
• Resource Partners
• Video Tutorials
• Contact Us & Directions
• Annual Report
• Advisory Committee
• Public Records
• Flyers and Outreach Materials
• Draft Rules
• Adopted Rule Changes
• Use of Logos
• Newsletters
• Careers at OMWBE

You are here

Area plan grant opportunity.

Purpose: The Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington (AAADSW) is seeking qualified entities to support the Agency’s mission and implementation of the 2024-2027 Area Plan, and to increase the delivery of aging services throughout AAADSW’s five-county Program Service Area (PSA).

The goals of this funding program are to:

• Support AAADSW’s mission and implementation of the Area Plan;
• Address the need to support underfunded services;
• Promote AAADSW’s relations among community partners;
• Reduce the burden of isolation, disability and disease; and
• Promote long-term services and supports for people aging in place or affected by disabilities.

AAADSW Background: AAADSW is designated by the State of Washington as the Area Agency on Aging serving Clark, Cowlitz, Klickitat, Skamania and Wahkiakum Counties. The agency plans, advocates, coordinates and supports a comprehensive service delivery system in the five-county region for persons who are 60 years of age or older, persons with disabilities who are 18 years of age or older, and caregivers of aging and/or disabled persons. For additional information about AAADSW and its Area Plan, see www.HelpingElders.org .

Eligible/Qualified Applicants: Applications will be accepted from government institutions (cities, counties, special purpose districts), organizations classified by the IRS as non-profit (501(c)(3), and private for-profit businesses with experience serving a particular target population of interest.

Applicants must be a verifiable legal public or private entity holding a valid Washington State Business License; and comply with all applicable local, state and federal laws, regulations, policies and contract requirements. Additional eligibility requirements will be required at the time of reviewing interested applicants’ qualifications (e.g., experience, bonding, insurance, past performance, fiscal and management references, independent financial audits, etc.). Organizations that have been debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible or excluded from participating in a contract by any Federal or state agency will not be considered.

Informational Packet: Entitles interested in responding to this notice must request an RFP packet by email, which details the application process, criteria, and deadlines. Send a request by email to [email protected] , and specify in the subject heading “Area Plan Grant Request.”

Requests received by other methods (e.g. faxing or mailing) will not be considered.

Deadlines: Interested entities must request the mandatory RFP packet and submit to AAADSW the Notice of Intent to Propose form(s) therein before 5:00 pm Pacific Time on May 17, 2024.  Submissions received after this deadline will not be considered.

AAADSW is an Equal Opportunity Agency

Women-owned, Minority-owned and Veteran-owned businesses

are encouraged to participate in this opportunity.

© Copyright 2023 by the Office of Minority & Women's Business Enterprises. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of Service  | Privacy Policy  | Accessibility

Translate Site

• 2024 Spring restaurant grants

Sign up for restaurant insights

Grubhub is excited to announce three grant opportunities for small business restaurants made possible in part by the Grubhub Community Fund . Running a local restaurant comes with its fair share of challenges. These grants are aimed at helping restaurants in need grow their businesses.

Spring grants restaurants can apply for in 2024:

• AAPISTRONG Restaurant Fund : Application opens on May 1.
• NGLCC Community Impact Grant: Applications open on April 30.
• NYC Greg Hill Foundation’s Restaurant Strong Fund: Applications open on April 26.

Apply for the AAPISTRONG Restaurant Fund

The AAPISTRONG Restaurant Fund , enabled by the Grubhub Community Fund, aims to support Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander-owned eateries nationwide. In light of ongoing economic hurdles in the industry, this initiative provides assistance to under-resourced restaurants grappling with supply chain disruptions, rising inventory expenses, workforce development, and employee safety concerns. 

Through this funding, AAPI restaurant owners can enhance their businesses by investing in infrastructure upgrades, embracing e-commerce and technological advancements, offering better employee benefits, and refining operational efficiency. Ultimately, these endeavors empower AAPI entrepreneurs to expand their business, fortify their financial stability, and enrich their communities by nurturing safe and welcoming gathering spaces. 

With over $5 million to 351 AAPI establishments in the past three years, the AAPISTRONG Restaurant Fund and the Grubhub Community Fund remain steadfast in championing the tireless efforts and commitment of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander restaurant owners.

Application Timeline:

• Application opens May 1 until May 31, or if we reach 5,000 applications, whichever comes first.
• Application review will occur in June and July.
• Grant results will be announced in August.

Click here to apply for the AAPISTRONG Restaurant Fund.

Apply for the NGLCC Community Impact Grant

LGBTQ+-owned restaurants and bars across the country are eligible to apply for this year’s NGLCC Community Impact Grant , made possible through the partnership between National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) and the Grubhub Community Fund. 

Individual grants range from $5,000 to $25,000. Restaurant owners can use these grants to bolster employee wages, upgrade infrastructure, fuel marketing efforts, and more. The NGLCC aims to allocate 30% of the funds to businesses owned by people of color and transgender and gender expansive (TGX) individuals. 

Application Deadlines:

• East Region Application: 4/30 – 5/21
• Central Region Application: 5/14 – 6/4
• West Region Application: 6/4 – 6/25

Click here to apply for the NGLCC Community Impact Grant .

New York City: Apply for the Greg Hill Foundation’s Restaurant Strong Fund

The Grubhub Community Fund in collaboration with the Greg Hill Foundation Restaurant Strong Fund is announcing a grant opportunity of $500,000 for New York City restaurants. This grant will assist New York City-based restaurants in enhancing the environmental sustainability of their operations.

Starting on April 26, the Restaurant Strong Fund will be accepting applications for this grant cycle. The focus will be on providing financial support for recent or future upgrades to kitchen equipment, particularly coal-and wood-burning ovens, with the aim of reducing carbon emissions. This grant seeks to ease the burden on small businesses as they undertake necessary operational enhancement to promote environmental sustainability.

Grants up to $5,000 will be available to restaurants who complete the application form and meet the following criteria:

• Must be an open restaurant that is currently operating in New York City
• Must have recently updated (no earlier than January 1, 2024) or will soon update kitchen equipment that aims to improve environmental sustainability, including reducing the restaurant’s carbon footprint through emissions reduction.
• Must provide a detailed plan on how the grant will be used and how funding will help make operations more environmentally friendly.

Click here to apply for the Greg Hill Foundation’s Restaurant Strong Fund . 

Strengthen your takeout and delivery business strategy with Grubhub

Here at Grubhub, we are dedicated to helping small businesses grow. With over 33 million diners on our app, Grubhub continues to help connect small businesses to hungry, paying customers.

Restaurant delivery and pickup are continuing to rise in popularity as customers grow accustomed to convenience. 90% of customers expect consistent or increased usage of food delivery apps going forward. With food delivery trends evolving, Grubhub is committed to be a leader and resource to help grow restaurants of all kinds. Learn more about how we can support your business by partnering with Grubhub today.

Trending articles

• 5 restaurant menu ideas to attract more customers
• Best third-party delivery in Boston
• Menu engineering: How to make a profitable restaurant menu
• Memorial Day menu ideas for restaurants

More articles like this

An exploration of Google Business link placements for...

An exploration of Google Business link placements for restaurants | Grubhub

4 Digital Innovations That Will Improve Your Restaurant...

Are you a restaurant owner looking to invest in the latest digital tech? GrubHub’s online ordering platform is...

The Grubhub guide to restaurant marketing

Learn the best restaurant marketing ideas to help you build awareness, reach new customers, increase your sales, and...

7 keys to a successful restaurant

Discover strategies and insights to make your restaurant thrive. Explore industry expert advice for a flourishing and profitable...

Don't leave money on the table

The faster you partner with grubhub, the faster your business can grow..

Join Grubhub Marketplace and get access to all the benefits that go with it. All fields required

Already have an account? Sign in

Don't miss out - drive higher ROI for your Restaurant!

Nearly 9 out of 10 restaurant owners surveyed agree that Grubhub delivers a high ROI to their business - higher than the competition average*

Thrive on your own terms with flexible pricing and marketing rates as low as 5%.

*Grubhub Restaurant Intelligence Technomic Report 2022