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Grant Opportunities

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Explore curated grant and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs, women-owned businesses, startups, nonprofits, rural communities, and community organizations.

Amber Grant

Makers Mindset x The Equity Studio 2026 Grant

 

Award Amount

$10,000 Equity-Free Grant

Five women-led brands will each receive $10,000, for a total of $50,000 in grant funding.

 

Application Deadline

October 9, 2026

Applications opened September 9, 2026.

 

Category

Women-Owned Business Grants
Beauty & Wellness Business Grants
Consumer Product / CPG Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible businesses must:

  • Be legally registered in the United States

  • Be at least 51% women-owned

  • Sell a consumer packaged goods (CPG) product in an eligible Beauty or Wellness category

  • Have no more than 10 employees

  • Have annual revenue greater than $50,000 but no more than $2 million

  • Have been generating revenue for at least one full year

 

Eligible Beauty categories include skincare, color cosmetics, haircare, scalp care, body care, oral care, fragrance, hygiene, and family and baby care.

Eligible Wellness categories include supplements, ingestibles, nutritional powders and products, functional foods and beverages, better-for-you foods, longevity and performance support, and hormone care.

 

Description

Makers Mindset and The Equity Studio are partnering to support early-stage women founders building consumer brands in the beauty and wellness industries.

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Five selected businesses will each receive a $10,000 equity-free grant. In addition to funding, recipients will gain access to mentorship, entrepreneurial community connections, and visibility opportunities through Makers Mindset and The Equity Studio.

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This opportunity is designed for established, revenue-generating women-led brands that are ready to strengthen and grow their businesses.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Five $10,000 equity-free grants

  • πŸ’΅ $50,000 in total funding available

  • πŸ‘©‍πŸ’Ό Designed for businesses with at least 51% women ownership

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ  Open to legally registered U.S. businesses

  • πŸ›οΈ Focused specifically on Beauty and Wellness CPG brands

  • 🀝 Includes mentorship and Provides community and networking opportunities

  • πŸ“£ Includes visibility and brand amplification opportunities

  • 🏒 Available to businesses with 10 employees or fewer

 

Best For

  • Women-owned beauty brands

  • Skincare and cosmetics companies

  • Haircare and body care brands

  • Fragrance and personal-care businesses

  • Women-owned wellness brands

  • Functional food and beverage companies

  • Supplement and nutritional product brands

  • Hormone-care and longevity brands

  • Established CPG businesses seeking growth capital

  • Early-stage consumer brands already generating meaningful revenue

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide information regarding:

  • Business registration and ownership

  • Business and founder background

  • Product category and offerings

  • Annual business revenue

  • Length of time generating revenue

  • Number of employees

  • Business growth and funding needs

  • Additional information requested within the official application

 

Applicants should review the official application and Terms and Conditions for the complete submission requirements.

 

Application Fee

No application fee is stated in the provided grant information. Applicants should confirm current requirements on the official application before submitting.

 

Important Notes

  • This is not a general small-business grant. Applicants must operate an eligible Beauty or Wellness CPG business.

  • The company must be at least 51% women-owned.

  • Businesses earning $50,000 or less in annual revenue are not eligible.

  • Annual revenue cannot exceed $2 million.

  • Applicants must have generated revenue for at least one full year.

  • Businesses may have no more than 10 employees.

  • Five businesses will be selected to receive $10,000 each.

  • Funding is equity-free, meaning recipients do not give up ownership in exchange for the grant.

  • Applications close October 9, 2026.

 

Insight

 

This is a strong but highly targeted funding opportunity for women entrepreneurs who have already moved beyond the startup-idea stage and are building revenue-generating consumer brands.

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The combination of a $10,000 equity-free award, mentorship, industry connections, and brand visibility makes the opportunity particularly relevant for qualifying beauty and wellness founders. However, applicants should pay close attention to the revenue, ownership, employee-count, and product-category requirements before investing time in the application.

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Deadline: October 9, 2026 — eligible founders should review the requirements and begin preparing their applications soon.

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Marshalls Good Stuff Accelerator Program

 

Award Amount

$5,000 one-time grant, plus a yearlong virtual accelerator program

 

Application Deadline

October 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET

 

Category

Women’s Grants | Professional Development Grants | Accelerator Programs | Entrepreneur Opportunities

 

Funding Type

Private Grant and Virtual Accelerator Program

 

Status

Open

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include:

  • Women pursuing personal or professional goals

  • Entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs

  • Career professionals

  • Creatives and community leaders

  • Legal residents of the 50 United States, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico

  • Applicants who are at least 18 years old

  • Individuals who can participate in the yearlong virtual program

 

Business ownership is not required. Applicants from different backgrounds and at various stages of their personal or professional journeys are encouraged to apply.

 

Description

The Marshalls Good Stuff Accelerator Program is a yearlong virtual development experience created to help women strengthen their skills, build confidence, expand their networks, and take meaningful steps toward their goals.

Forty participants will be selected for the 2027 program. Each participant will receive a one-time $5,000 grant, live virtual sessions with experts and role models, peer coaching, accountability support, and access to the Luminary Collective PLUS professional community.

Although entrepreneurs may apply, this opportunity is broader than a traditional small-business grant. Applicants may use the program to advance a business, career, creative pursuit, community initiative, or another meaningful personal or professional goal.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° $5,000 one-time grant

  • πŸ‘₯ 40 participants will be selected

  • πŸ’» Twelve months of virtual programming

  • πŸŽ“ Live sessions with experts and inspiring role models

  • 🀝 Peer coaching and accountability support

  • πŸ’Ž Access to Luminary Collective PLUS

  • 🌎 Available across the United States, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico

  • βœ… Business ownership is not required

  • πŸ†“ Free to apply

 

Best For

  • Women entrepreneurs

  • Aspiring business owners

  • Career professionals

  • Creatives and content creators

  • Women developing community initiatives

  • Applicants seeking coaching and accountability

  • Women pursuing a meaningful personal or professional goal

  • Individuals who would benefit from funding, mentorship, and networking

 

Program Benefits

Selected participants will receive:

  • A $5,000 grant to invest in their stated goals

  • Live virtual sessions with Marshalls experts and role models

  • Peer-coaching sessions through a Luminary Crew

  • Shared accountability and program support

  • Access to more than 15 monthly Luminary events

  • Professional tools and networking opportunities

  • Membership in the Luminary Collective PLUS community

 

Required Information

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Personal and contact information

  • Information about the goal or ambition they wish to pursue

  • An explanation of how the program would support that goal

  • Responses to the application questions

  • Confirmation that they can participate in the 2027 virtual program

  • Any additional materials requested through the official application

Traditional business documents are not necessarily required because applicants do not have to own a business.

 

Application Fee

Free

No purchase is necessary to apply.

 

Important Notes

  • Applications are open from September 9 through October 13, 2026.

  • The virtual program runs from January through December 2027.

  • Forty participants will be selected.

  • This is not exclusively a small-business grant.

  • Applicants should be prepared to participate throughout the full yearlong program.

  • Grant recipients may receive a Form 1099-MISC for the value of the prize package and may be responsible for applicable taxes.

  • Carefully review the official rules before applying.

 

Opportunity Score

CategoryRating

πŸ’° Funding Potentialβ­β­β­β­β˜†

🌎 Availability⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ Application Accessibility⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ˆ Personal/Professional Impact⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⏳ Time Commitmentβ­β­β­β˜†β˜†

 

Overall Opportunity Score

9.0 / 10

 

Insight

The Marshalls Good Stuff Accelerator is an excellent opportunity for women who need more than funding alone. The $5,000 grant is paired with a full year of expert instruction, peer coaching, accountability, networking, and professional-development resources.

Because business ownership is not required, this program may be especially valuable for aspiring entrepreneurs, creatives, professionals, and community leaders who are working toward a clearly defined goal. Applicants should only apply if they can commit to participating throughout 2027.

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Frazier Family Foundation x CFDA

Empowered Vision Award 

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Award Amount

$100,000 Grant + Mentorship and Business Support

One selected designer will receive a $100,000 grant to support business growth and stability.

Two additional finalists will also receive cash prizes. The amounts of the finalist awards are not stated in the provided program information.

 

Application Deadline

October 15, 2026

Applications are currently open for the 2026–2027 award cycle.

 

Category

Black-Owned Business Grants
Fashion & Apparel Business Grants
Designer & Creative Entrepreneur Grants

 

Eligibility

The Empowered Vision Award is designed to support an independent Black designer demonstrating exceptional creativity, business acumen, and potential for long-term success.

Applicants should review the official application and eligibility requirements carefully before applying, as the complete eligibility criteria and submission requirements are provided through the official application.

 

Description

The Andréa W. and Kenneth C. Frazier Family Foundation and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) have partnered to support Black-owned businesses in the fashion industry through the Empowered Vision Award.

Now in its third year, the program provides an exemplary designer with significant financial support, strategic mentorship, expert consulting, and national visibility.

The selected recipient will receive a $100,000 grant designed to help strengthen and grow their business. Two finalists will also receive cash prizes.

Beyond funding, the recipient receives tailored mentorship in key business areas and works with a paid consultant for one year to strengthen internal systems, address business challenges, and build long-term capacity.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° $100,000 grant for the selected recipient

  • πŸ’΅ Two additional finalists receive cash prizes

  • πŸ‘— Designed for an independent Black fashion designer

  • 🀝 Includes tailored strategic mentorship

  • πŸ§‘‍πŸ’Ό Includes access to a paid consultant for one year

  • πŸ“ˆ Focuses on strengthening business systems and long-term growth

  • πŸ“£ Provides national visibility and industry exposure

  • πŸ† Backed by the Frazier Family Foundation and CFDA

  • 🎨 Evaluates creativity, business acumen, and long-term potential

 

Best For

  • Black-owned fashion businesses

  • Independent Black fashion designers

  • Emerging and established designer-led brands

  • Apparel and fashion entrepreneurs

  • Designers ready to scale their businesses

  • Fashion businesses seeking significant growth capital

  • Designers who would benefit from strategic business mentorship

  • Creative founders seeking stronger internal business systems

  • Fashion brands seeking increased national and industry visibility

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide information regarding:

  • Designer and founder background

  • Business and brand information

  • Creative work and design portfolio

  • Business history and development

  • Business growth plans

  • Current business needs and challenges

  • Intended use of funding

  • Additional materials requested through the official application

Applicants should review the official application for the complete list of required documents and submission requirements.

 

Application Fee

No application fee is stated in the provided program information.

Applicants should confirm current requirements through the official application before submitting.

 

Important Notes

  • This is a highly targeted fashion-industry funding opportunity, not a general small-business grant.

  • The program is designed to advance Black-owned businesses in fashion.

  • One recipient receives a $100,000 grant.

  • Two finalists also receive cash prizes, although the amounts are not specified in the provided program information.

  • The recipient receives tailored strategic mentorship.

  • The recipient also works with a paid consultant for one year.

  • The program emphasizes both creative excellence and business discipline.

  • National visibility and industry exposure are significant components of the award.

  • This is the third year of the Empowered Vision Award.

  • Applications for the 2026–2027 cycle are currently open.

  • Application deadline: October 15, 2026.

 

Insight

This is an exceptionally strong but highly specialized funding opportunity for Black entrepreneurs operating within the fashion and designer-brand space.

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The $100,000 award alone makes it notable, but the additional year-long consulting support, strategic mentorship, and national visibility substantially increase the potential value of the program. For an independent designer trying to move from a strong creative brand into a more scalable and sustainable business, the nonfinancial support could be nearly as important as the grant itself.

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Because the program evaluates both creative excellence and business acumen, applicants should be prepared to demonstrate not only the quality of their design work but also the strength, direction, and growth potential of their business.

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Deadline: October 15, 2026 — qualifying designers should treat this as an urgent opportunity and begin reviewing the official application requirements immediately.

Kenneth B. and Stephen L. Tadlock

Veteran Business Grant

Award Amount

$1,000 Micro-Grant + Free Business Development Program

A total of 25 finalists will each receive a $1,000 micro-grant, representing a total grant fund of $25,000.

Finalists will also receive free access to one Founders First CDC business development program: Passport Community or Zebra Leadership.

Passport Community is valued at $1,499 for a three-month subscription, while Zebra Leadership is valued at $1,699.

 

Application Deadline

October 15, 2026

Applications are currently open.

 

Category

Veteran Business Grants
Military Spouse Business Grants
Small Business Growth Grants
Employer-Based Small Business Grants

 

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be a U.S. military veteran or military spouse

  • Be the CEO, President, or Business Owner

  • Operate an active U.S.-based business

  • Have annual business revenue of no more than $5 million

  • Employ between 2 and 100 employees

  • Have been in business for at least one year

Applicants should review the official application requirements carefully before submitting.

 

Description

The Kenneth B. and Stephen L. Tadlock Veteran Business Grant, offered through Founders First CDC, provides funding and business-development support to U.S. military veterans and military spouses who own established employer-based small businesses.

The grant honors U.S. Navy veteran Stephen L. Tadlock, brother of Founders First CEO Kim Folsom, and was created to help veteran-led and military-spouse-owned businesses build stronger and more sustainable companies.

Twenty-five finalists will each receive a $1,000 micro-grant that can be used toward business needs such as equipment, operations, staffing, or growth.

In addition to the cash award, each finalist will select one Founders First CDC business-development program to attend at no cost: Passport Community or Zebra Leadership.

Passport Community provides weekly expert-led sessions covering marketing, sales, operations, and finance.

Zebra Leadership is a six-session program designed to help founders strengthen their leadership skills, build teams, step more fully into the CEO role, and scale their companies.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° 25 finalists receive $1,000 micro-grants

  • πŸ’΅ $25,000 total grant fund

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Designed for U.S. military veterans and military spouses

  • 🏒 Business must employ between 2 and 100 people

  • πŸ“Š Annual business revenue must not exceed $5 million

  • πŸ“… Business must have operated for at least one year

  • 🧰 Grant funds may support equipment, operations, staffing, or business growth

  • πŸŽ“ Includes free access to a Founders First CDC business program

  • πŸ“ˆ Passport Community covers marketing, sales, operations, and finance

  • πŸ‘” Zebra Leadership focuses on CEO leadership, team building, and scaling

  • πŸ’Ό Program access is valued at up to $1,699

  • 🀝 Combines direct funding with business education and support

 

Best For

  • Veteran-owned small businesses

  • Military-spouse-owned businesses

  • Established employer-based businesses

  • Veteran entrepreneurs with growing teams

  • Military spouses serving as CEOs, presidents, or business owners

  • Businesses with 2–100 employees

  • Businesses operating for at least one year

  • Founders seeking funding for equipment or operations

  • Businesses preparing to expand staffing or operations

  • Entrepreneurs who would benefit from structured business-growth training

  • Veteran and military-spouse founders seeking leadership development

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide information and documentation related to:

  • Veteran or military spouse eligibility

  • Founder and business-owner information

  • Business history

  • Business location and operations

  • Annual business revenue

  • Number of employees

  • Business growth needs

  • Intended use of grant funding

  • Additional information requested through the official application

 

Selected recipients will also be required to complete award documentation before funds are released. This may include:

  • Signed Terms & Conditions, when applicable

  • Program selection and enrollment

  • Signed W-9

  • Verified Bill.com account

  • Additional program-specific documentation

Applicants should review the official application for the complete list of required documents.

 

Application Fee

No application fee is stated in the provided program information.

Applicants should confirm current requirements through the official application before submitting.

 

Important Notes

  • This is a national opportunity for qualifying U.S. military veterans and military spouses.

  • Applicants must own or lead an active U.S.-based business.

  • Businesses must have between 2 and 100 employees.

  • Businesses must have operated for at least one year.

  • Annual business revenue cannot exceed $5 million.

  • Twenty-five finalists will each receive a $1,000 micro-grant.

  • Grant funding may be used toward equipment, operations, staffing, or growth.

  • Each finalist must choose either Passport Community or Zebra Leadership; finalists do not participate in both.

  • Passport Community is valued at $1,499 for a three-month subscription.

  • Zebra Leadership is valued at $1,699.

  • Grant payments are distributed electronically through Bill.com after required documentation and verification are completed.

  • Semifinalists are scheduled to be announced October 22, 2026.

  • Finalists are scheduled to be announced November 10, 2026.

  • Application deadline: October 15, 2026.

 

Insight

This is a particularly useful opportunity for veteran and military-spouse entrepreneurs because it combines direct funding with structured business-development support.

Although the $1,000 cash award is smaller than some national business grants, the additional program access significantly increases the overall value of the opportunity. Depending on the program selected, finalists receive business training valued at $1,499 or $1,699 in addition to the grant.

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The eligibility requirements are also important. This opportunity is not designed for brand-new startups or solo businesses without employees. Applicants must have operated for at least one year and employ between 2 and 100 people.

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For qualifying veteran and military-spouse business owners, the combination of funding, leadership development, operational training, and access to the Founders First business community makes this a strong growth-focused opportunity.

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2027 Wisconsin Meat Processor Infrastructure Grant

 

Award Amount

Up to $50,000

Grants are awarded through a competitive review process and may provide up to $50,000 per project.

Important: This is a reimbursement grant. Grant funds are not provided in advance, and recipients must document eligible expenses and proof of payment before receiving reimbursement.

Applicants must also provide a 100% match equal to the grant amount requested. For example, a $25,000 grant request requires at least $25,000 in matching funds, resulting in a minimum $50,000 project budget. 2027MPIGRFP 2027MPIGRFP

 

Application Deadline

October 15, 2026 — 11:59 p.m. Central Time

Applications opened September 16, 2026.

Selected applicants are expected to be notified in late November 2026, with an anticipated project start date of January 1, 2027. 2027MPIGRFP

 

Category

Agriculture Grants
Food & Meat Processing Grants
Wisconsin Small Business Grants
Manufacturing & Infrastructure Grants
Livestock Industry Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must:

  • Operate a DATCP- or U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-licensed meat-processing facility located in Wisconsin

  • Be engaged in livestock harvesting or further meat processing

  • Propose a project that increases harvest capacity or meat-product production that benefits harvest capacity within the supply chain

  • Have no outstanding state or federal penalties or violations

  • Be in good standing with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue, Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, DATCP, and USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service

Rendering plants are not eligible.

 

Preference may be given to applicants that have not previously received a Meat Processor Infrastructure Grant and/or do not currently have an open grant with DATCP's Division of Agricultural Development. 2027MPIGRFP

 

Description

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection's Meat Processor Infrastructure Grant (MPIG) is designed to strengthen Wisconsin's meat-processing industry and support the long-term viability of the state's livestock sector.

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The program provides funding to licensed Wisconsin meat processors for projects that expand harvest capacity, increase product throughput, improve production or profitability, address processing bottlenecks, and strengthen the competitiveness of Wisconsin's meat sector. 2027MPIGRFP

Grants of up to $50,000 can support qualifying infrastructure, equipment, construction, professional services, and other project expenses directly connected to increasing processing capacity.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $50,000 in grant funding

  • πŸ₯© Designed specifically for Wisconsin meat processors

  • 🏭 Supports facility expansion and processing infrastructure

  • βš™οΈ Equipment and equipment installation may qualify

  • πŸ—οΈ Construction, engineering, and architectural-design expenses may qualify

  • πŸ›‘οΈ Food-safety advisory services may qualify

  • πŸ“ˆ Projects can increase harvest capacity, production, efficiency, or profitability

  • πŸ‘· Projects creating employment in Wisconsin's meat sector may qualify

  • πŸ’΅ 100% matching funds required

  • πŸ”„ Reimbursement-based funding — money is not advanced

 

Eligible project expenses can include facility expansion, engineering, architectural design, construction, food-safety advisory services, equipment, and equipment installation. 2027MPIGRFP

 

Best For

  • Wisconsin meat-processing facilities

  • Livestock harvesting operations

  • Meat processors expanding production capacity

  • Processors purchasing or installing new equipment

  • Facilities planning expansions or construction

  • Processors addressing production bottlenecks

  • Businesses seeking to improve processing efficiency

  • Wisconsin meat processors creating new jobs

  • Established processors able to provide the required matching funds

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide information regarding:

  • Business and meat-processing facility information

  • DATCP or USDA licensing

  • Proposed project and project need

  • Current and projected harvest or processing capacity

  • Project activities and expected outcomes

  • Project budget

  • Matching funds

  • Project timeline

  • Authorized contract signer

  • Project coordinator

  • Financial capacity to complete the proposed project

  • Additional supporting information requested in the official application

 

Applications are submitted through DATCP's online application system. Incomplete applications or applications from businesses that do not meet the eligibility requirements may not be considered. 2027MPIGRFP

 

Application Fee

No application fee is stated in the official RFP.

Applicants should review the official program information and application before submitting.

 

Important Notes

  • This opportunity is limited to eligible meat-processing facilities located in Wisconsin.

  • Applicants must operate a DATCP- or USDA-licensed meat-processing establishment.

  • The maximum grant award is $50,000.

  • This is a reimbursement grant, so recipients must pay eligible costs and submit documentation for reimbursement.

  • A 100% match is required. A $50,000 grant request would therefore require at least $50,000 in eligible matching expenses.

  • Real-estate purchases, loan or mortgage repayment, advertising, legal fees, lobbying, travel, lodging, meals, and certain administrative expenses are not eligible. 2027MPIGRFP

  • Projects should increase harvest capacity or meat-product production, improve efficiency, strengthen Wisconsin's meat sector, and/or create employment.

  • DATCP notes that priority may be given to projects that directly increase harvest capacity. 2027MPIGRFP

  • Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Central Time on October 15, 2026. Late proposals will not be considered. 2027MPIGRFP

 

Insight

This is a strong but highly specialized state-level funding opportunity for established Wisconsin meat processors that are ready to invest in expansion, equipment, construction, or other infrastructure improvements.

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The potential $50,000 award is substantial, particularly for processors seeking to increase harvest or production capacity. However, applicants need to pay very close attention to two financial requirements: the grant operates on a reimbursement basis and requires a dollar-for-dollar match. A business seeking the full $50,000 should therefore have the financial capacity to support at least $50,000 in qualifying matching expenses in addition to managing project costs while awaiting reimbursement.

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Because funding can cover major operational investments—including equipment, installation, facility expansion, engineering, architectural design, construction, and food-safety services—this could be particularly valuable for Wisconsin processors already planning capital improvements.

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Deadline: October 15, 2026 — qualifying Wisconsin meat processors should review the official RFP and application requirements as soon as possible.

Bridge  Association  of  REALTORS®

Community Foundation Grant

 

Award Amount

Up to $3,500

More than $30,000 is expected to be distributed through the 2026 grant cycle.

 

Application Deadline

October 15, 2026

 

Category

Nonprofit Grants
Community Development Grants
Youth & Education Grants
Housing & Homelessness Grants
Senior Services Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must:

  • Be a nonprofit with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or have an eligible fiscal sponsor

  • Have an annual organizational budget under $1 million

  • Provide services in Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Kensington, Oakland, or Piedmont, California

  • Request funding for a specific project or event

  • Conduct the funded project between December 1, 2026 and October 1, 2027

 

Description

The Bridge Association of REALTORS® Community Foundation provides grants to small nonprofit organizations serving communities in the East Bay.

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Funding focuses on Youth Arts & Education, Senior Services & Community Activities, and Workforce Housing & Homelessness.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $3,500 per grant

  • 🏘️ Supports six East Bay communities

  • πŸŽ“ Youth arts and education projects eligible

  • πŸ‘΅ Senior-service projects eligible

  • 🏠 Housing and homelessness programs eligible

  • 🀝 Fiscal sponsorship permitted

  • πŸ’Ό Project-specific salaries and stipends may qualify

 

Best For

Small community nonprofits, youth programs, senior-service organizations, housing and homelessness programs, educational nonprofits, arts organizations and neighborhood-serving organizations in eligible East Bay communities.

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide organizational and nonprofit information, project details, proposed use of funds and other materials requested in the official application.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

Funding cannot be used for general operating funds or regular full- or part-time salaries. Funding must be tied to a specific project or event. Bridge AOR

 

Insight

This is a highly localized opportunity, but it is valuable for small East Bay nonprofits because organizations with budgets below $1 million are specifically targeted.

Official Website & Application:

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Pave HER Way Women's Grant Programs

 

Award Amount

Disruptor Award: Up to $90,000 each — up to 5 awards

Financial Aid Award: Up to $30,000 each — up to 10 awards

 

Application Deadline

October 16, 2026

 

Category

Women's Grants
Social Impact Grants
Education & Career Grants
Community Impact Funding

 

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Identify as a woman

  • Be at least 18

  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

  • Meet the specific requirements of the selected award

 

The Disruptor Award supports transformational projects and ideas with a clear public benefit for women and girls.

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The Financial Aid Award helps women overcome financial barriers related to education, career advancement or qualifying personal circumstances.

 

Description

Pave HER Way is offering two major funding opportunities during its inaugural 2026 grant cycle.

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The Disruptor Award backs women developing projects or ideas that can advance women and girls in areas including education, economic mobility, employment, finance, health, science, technology, media, community development and the arts.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $90,000 through the Disruptor Award

  • πŸ’΅ Up to $30,000 through the Financial Aid Award

  • πŸ‘© Exclusively for women

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ National opportunity

  • 🌎 Broad range of eligible impact areas

  • 🀝 Includes access to Pave HER Way programming

 

Best For

Women changemakers, social-impact leaders, educators, innovators, community leaders, researchers and women pursuing education or career advancement.

 

Required Documents

Requirements depend on the selected award. Applicants should carefully review the official guidelines before submitting.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

Applicants cannot apply for both programs in 2026. Doing so results in disqualification of both applications. Disruptor funding paid directly to individuals may also have tax implications. Pave HER Way

 

Insight

This is one of the largest individual-focused women's funding opportunities currently in the JTB database, but it should not be marketed as a traditional small-business grant.

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Communities of Color Nonprofit Stabilization Fund

 

Award Amount

Up to $35,000 for organizations with budgets of $150,000–$500,000.

Up to $45,000 for organizations with budgets of $500,001–$3.5 million.

 

Application Deadline

October 16, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET

 

Category

Nonprofit Grants
Capacity-Building Grants
New York City Grants
Community Development Grants

 

Eligibility

Applicants must generally:

  • Have 501(c)(3) status

  • Have operated as an incorporated nonprofit for at least two years

  • Be based in New York City

  • Primarily serve NYC residents

  • Serve communities where at least 51% of the population served are people of color

  • Have an operating budget between $150,000 and $3.5 million

  • Be appropriately registered with New York authorities and PASSPort

Fiscal sponsors/conduits are not eligible.

 

Description

CCNSF provides capacity-building funding to strengthen Black-, Latino- and Asian-led or serving community organizations throughout New York City's five boroughs.

Eligible projects can address financial management, technology systems, evaluation, leadership development, strategic planning, new program development and organizational collaboration.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Awards up to $45,000

  • πŸ™οΈ NYC-specific

  • 🏒 Designed for community-based nonprofits

  • πŸ“Š Supports organizational capacity

  • πŸ’» Technology and information systems may qualify

  • πŸ“ˆ Strategic planning and leadership development eligible

 

 

Best For

NYC community nonprofits, direct-service organizations, culturally specific organizations and nonprofits needing organizational infrastructure or capacity-building assistance.

 

Required Documents

Requirements include items such as:

  • Board/officer list

  • Current organizational budget

  • Most recent Form 990

  • Most recent financial audit

  • Executive Director résumé

  • Key staff résumés

  • Consultant information, when applicable

  • Charities Bureau documentation

 

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

Important Notes

Organizations may apply through only one CCNSF partner. Projects must be completed and funds expended by June 30, 2027.

 

Insight

Excellent opportunity for qualifying NYC nonprofits because this funding specifically addresses organizational infrastructure rather than requiring every dollar to support direct programming.

​

Harford County Workforce Technical Training Grant

 

Award Amount

Up to 50% of eligible training costs

Maximum:

  • $2,000 per employee per round

  • $10,000 per business per fiscal year

 

Application Deadline

October 16, 2026

 

Category

Workforce Development Grants
Small Business Grants
Employee Training Grants
Maryland Business Grants

 

Eligibility

Designed for eligible Harford County, Maryland employers seeking technical training for existing full-time permanent employees.

 

Description

The Workforce Technical Training Grant helps Harford County employers strengthen workforce skills and competitiveness by reimbursing a portion of eligible technical training and apprenticeship expenses.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $10,000 per business annually

  • πŸ‘· Employee technical training

  • πŸ› οΈ Apprenticeship support

  • πŸ“ˆ Designed to improve productivity and competitiveness

  • πŸ“ Harford County, Maryland

 

Best For

Manufacturers, skilled-trade employers, technical businesses and small businesses needing specialized employee training.

 

Required Documents

Applicants must download, save and complete the required files identified by Harford County before beginning the online application.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

This is a reimbursement/matching program rather than unrestricted business funding.

 

Insight

Strong local workforce grant for businesses that already have employees and need help paying for technical upskilling rather than general business expenses.

​

​

​

​

Vimeo Short Film Grant

 

Award Amount

$60,000

Five filmmakers will each receive $60,000 to produce an original short film, representing $300,000 in total grant funding.

​

Selected filmmakers will also receive production resources, mentorship, promotional support and other benefits.

 

Application Deadline

October 16, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET

 

Category

Film & Creative Grants
Artist Grants
Filmmaker Grants
Media & Production Grants

 

Eligibility

Applicants must generally:

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Be a legal resident of the United States or Canada

  • Be an emerging filmmaker

  • Have completed at least two short films as a director

  • Not have completed a feature-length film as a director

  • Submit an original short-film project

  • Submit a project that has not already entered production or post-production

Applicants may submit only one project.

 

Description

The Vimeo Short Film Grant is designed to help emerging filmmakers take the next significant step in their creative careers by providing substantial funding and professional resources to produce an original short film.

 

Five selected filmmakers will each receive $60,000 toward production of their proposed short film. In addition to financial support, recipients receive access to filmmaking resources, mentorship, promotional support and opportunities to showcase their completed work through Vimeo.

The program is intended for emerging filmmakers who already have experience creating short films but have not yet directed a feature-length film.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Five $60,000 grants

  • πŸ’΅ $300,000 in total grant funding

  • 🎬 Designed specifically for emerging filmmakers

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Open to eligible U.S. residents

  • πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ Open to eligible Canadian residents

  • πŸŽ₯ Panavision equipment support

  • πŸ’Ύ OWC storage resources

  • 🀝 One-on-one mentorship

  • πŸ“£ Vimeo promotional and distribution support

  • 🎞️ In-person screening opportunity

  • πŸ’» One-year Vimeo Advanced subscription

 

Best For

  • Emerging filmmakers

  • Short-film directors

  • Independent filmmakers

  • Narrative filmmakers

  • Documentary filmmakers

  • Experimental filmmakers

  • Directors ready to produce a professionally developed short film

  • Filmmakers seeking funding, mentorship and industry exposure before moving into feature-length filmmaking

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide materials related to themselves and the proposed film, including information that demonstrates their previous filmmaking experience and presents the creative and production plan for the proposed project.

Because Vimeo evaluates factors including originality, storytelling, potential audience impact and the feasibility of the proposed budget and production timeline, applicants should carefully review the official application requirements and prepare their creative and production materials accordingly.

 

Application Fee

No application fee or purchase is required.

 

Important Notes

  • This opportunity is for individual filmmakers rather than business entities.

  • Applicants must have completed at least two short films as a director.

  • Applicants who have already completed a feature-length film as a director are not eligible.

  • The proposed short film cannot already be in production or post-production.

  • Applicants may submit only one project.

  • Five filmmakers will receive $60,000 each.

  • Funding is intended to support production of the selected short-film project.

  • Applicants should carefully review Vimeo's official rules and application requirements before submitting.

  • Applications close October 16, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET.

 

Insight

With $60,000 available per filmmaker, applicants should approach this as more than a request for money to make a film—the application needs to demonstrate that the proposed project is creatively distinctive and realistically achievable. Develop a clear vision for the story, why it needs to be told, who it could resonate with, and what will distinguish it from other short-film proposals. Your previous work should also help demonstrate that you have the storytelling and directing experience necessary to successfully execute the project.

​

Pay particular attention to the budget and production timeline. A compelling concept can lose strength if the proposed film does not appear feasible within the available funding and production parameters. Before submitting, make sure the creative vision, production plan and budget support one another and that your application clearly communicates what the audience will experience when the film is complete. With only five awards available, applicants should use their submission to show both a memorable creative voice and a credible plan for bringing that vision to the screen.

Visa Foundation U.S. Small Business Growth & Innovation Program

Award Amount

$100,000–$250,000

Visa Foundation has committed $2 million to the program.

 

Application Deadline

October 21, 2026 at 12:00 PM PT

 

Category

Nonprofit Grants
Entrepreneur Support Organization Grants
Small Business Ecosystem Grants
Capacity-Building Grants

 

Eligibility

Applicants must generally:

  • Be a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) public charity

  • Have an annual operating budget between $1 million and $10 million

  • Provide direct services to operating small and micro businesses

  • Have two years of audited financial statements and/or Forms 990

  • Primarily conduct work in the United States or U.S. territories

 

Description

Visa Foundation is providing flexible 12-month grants to Entrepreneurial Support Organizations that directly help small and micro businesses become stronger, more competitive and more resilient.

Funding may support training, technical assistance, coaching, digital adoption, staffing and organizational capacity.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° $100,000–$250,000 awards

  • πŸ’΅ $2 million program commitment

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ National

  • 🀝 Supports organizations helping small businesses

  • πŸ’» Digital and technology adoption may qualify

  • πŸ“ˆ Flexible organizational funding

Best For

Business incubators, entrepreneur-support nonprofits, small-business development nonprofits, accelerators and organizations providing direct technical assistance to operating businesses.

 

Required Documents

Applicants should expect to provide:

  • Two years of audited financial statements or Forms 990

  • Current board-approved operating budget

  • Organizational information

  • Program and impact information

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

This grant does NOT go directly to individual small-business owners. It funds nonprofit organizations that support small and micro businesses. 

 

Insight

This is a significant funding opportunity for established nonprofit organizations that directly support small and micro businesses. With awards ranging from $100,000 to $250,000, applicants should focus on clearly demonstrating how their programs produce measurable results for the entrepreneurs and businesses they serve.

​

Organizations should be prepared to show a strong track record of direct small-business support, explain how the funding will strengthen or expand that work, and provide evidence of the outcomes they have already achieved. Because applicants must have an annual operating budget between $1 million and $10 million, this opportunity is best suited for established organizations with the financial records and organizational capacity to manage a substantial grant.

​

Before applying, review your most recent financial statements, Form 990s, program outcomes, and impact data so your application can clearly connect the requested funding to measurable benefits for small and micro businesses.

​

​​​

https://www.rockpa.org/visa-foundation/

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​

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City of Albany Small Business Facade

Improvement Program

 

Award Amount

Up to $10,000

Matching grant.

 

Application Deadline

October 22, 2026 at 3:00 PM

 

Category

Small Business Grants
Façade Improvement Grants
New York Business Grants
Commercial Property Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible small businesses and qualifying nonprofits must be located within the City of Albany, New York.

 

Description

The City of Albany Small Business Façade Improvement Program helps businesses reinvest in the exterior appearance and functionality of their commercial properties.

Eligible improvements can include storefronts, entrances, signage, lighting, windows, awnings, painting and brickwork.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $10,000

  • 🏒 Exterior property improvements

  • πŸͺ§ Signage and storefront improvements

  • πŸ’‘ Lighting

  • 🧱 Brickwork

  • πŸ“ Citywide within Albany

 

Best For

Albany storefront businesses, retailers, restaurants, neighborhood businesses and qualifying nonprofits planning exterior renovations.

 

Required Documents

Applicants should review the official program resources, including the application, budget worksheet, property-owner consent form when applicable, and required-document checklist.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

This is a matching grant, so applicants must invest funds into the project rather than expecting 100% grant coverage.

 

Insight

This is a matching grant, applicants should begin by determining how much they can realistically contribute toward the project and then build the improvement plan around that amount. A well-defined project with clear costs may be stronger than trying to include every exterior improvement at once.

​

Before applying, consider which façade improvements could make the biggest difference to your business—such as improving signage and visibility, creating a more inviting entrance, replacing worn windows or awnings, or improving exterior lighting. Obtain estimates early so you understand both the total project cost and the amount you would be responsible for funding.

​

If you lease your location, speak with the property owner before beginning the application since owner consent may be required. Applicants should also avoid starting work or making purchases until they have reviewed the program rules and confirmed when project expenses become eligible.

The Lawrence Foundation Grant

Award Amount

$5,000 – $10,000

Larger grants may occasionally be awarded, typically after the Foundation has developed an ongoing relationship with an organization.

 

Application Deadline

October 31, 2026

The Lawrence Foundation has two annual application deadlines:

  • April 30

  • October 31

Applications must be submitted online by 11:59 p.m. Central Time.

 

Funding Agency

The Lawrence Foundation — Santa Monica, California

 

Category

Nonprofit Grants | Human Services Grants | Environmental Grants | Community Impact Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include:

  • U.S.-based nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) public charity status

  • Public schools

  • Public libraries

  • Qualified charitable organizations located throughout the United States

The Foundation has no geographic restrictions within the United States.

Organizations applying for environmental or disaster-relief projects may operate programs internationally as long as the organization is headquartered and qualified in the United States.

 

Description

The Lawrence Foundation provides grants to U.S.-based charitable organizations working primarily in human services, environmental causes, and disaster relief.

The Foundation accepts both general operating and program/project requests within its areas of interest. Grants are generally issued as unrestricted funding, giving qualifying organizations flexibility in how awarded funds are used to support their mission and programs.

The Foundation awards grants twice each year and accepts applications through the Common Grant Application system.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Typical awards range from $5,000 – $10,000

  • πŸ“… Two grant cycles each year

  • 🌎 No geographic restrictions within the United States

  • 🀝 Supports human services organizations

  • 🌱 Supports environmental initiatives

  • 🚨 May support disaster-relief efforts

  • 🏒 General operating and program/project requests are accepted

  • πŸ’΅ Grants are generally awarded as unrestricted funding

  • 🏫 Public schools and libraries may be eligible

  • πŸ“Š Reasonable indirect costs may be included in grant requests

 

Best For

  • Human services nonprofits

  • Community-based nonprofit organizations

  • Environmental organizations

  • Disaster-relief organizations

  • Public schools

  • Public libraries

  • Nonprofits seeking general operating support

  • Organizations seeking flexible program or project funding

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide organizational and project information through the Common Grant Application, which may include:

  • Organization information

  • Proof of nonprofit or eligible public-entity status

  • Project or program description

  • Funding request

  • Organizational budget and financial information

  • Program goals and anticipated impact

  • Additional information requested through the Common Grant Application

 

Important Notes

  • ⚠️ The Foundation does not award grants to individuals or for-profit businesses.

  • Churches and religious schools are generally not funded.

  • Charter and magnet schools are generally not funded.

  • The Foundation generally does not fund computers, software, audio/video equipment, promotional materials, recreational programs, performing arts programs, music programs, gardening programs, or physical education programs and equipment.

  • Political lobbying, voter registration, ticketed events, and political activities are generally not eligible.

  • Multi-year grants are generally not awarded, although organizations may receive funding in multiple years.

  • Organizations should review the Foundation's past grants before applying to determine whether their work aligns with current funding interests.

  • Important: This listing is for The Lawrence Foundation based in Santa Monica, California. A separate Lawrence Foundation based in New York has different grantmaking priorities.

 

Opportunity Score

CategoryRating

πŸ’° Funding Potentialβ­β­β­β˜†β˜†

🌎 Availability⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ Application Difficultyβ­β­β­β˜†β˜†

πŸ“ˆ Community Impactβ­β­β­β­β˜†

⏳ Time Commitmentβ­β­β­β˜†β˜†

 

Overall Opportunity Score

8.6 / 10

 

Insight

The Lawrence Foundation is a strong opportunity for established U.S. nonprofits working in human services, environmental initiatives, or disaster relief. While the typical $5,000–$10,000 award is smaller than many large foundation grants, the combination of nationwide eligibility, unrestricted funding, general operating support, and two annual application cycles makes this a valuable opportunity for organizations seeking flexible funding.

Applicants should pay particularly close attention to the Foundation's funding exclusions before applying. Reviewing previously awarded grants can also help organizations determine whether their programs closely align with the Foundation's current priorities.

​

Michigan Rural Development Fund 

2027 Grant Cycle

Award Amount

Up to $100,000–$200,000, depending on the funding category.

Category 1: Community and Business Development

Awards of up to $100,000 for eligible projects involving infrastructure, community facilities, workforce development, economic development, business development, planning and organizational capacity building.

​

Category 2: Regional Collaboration

Awards of up to $200,000 for projects establishing formal regional partnerships, shared-service models and collaborative solutions addressing multi-county needs.

Approximately $4 million is available for the 2027 grant cycle.

 

Application Deadline

Letter of Intent Deadline: November 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Only applicants invited to continue will submit a complete application.

Invited Full Application Deadline: January 13, 2027, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time

 

Category

Michigan Grants
Rural Business Grants
Community Development Grants
Economic Development Grants
Workforce Development Grants
Infrastructure Grants
Government Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include:

  • Individuals

  • For-profit businesses

  • Tax-exempt organizations

  • Local units of government

  • Federally recognized Tribes

  • Educational institutions

  • Regional planning agencies

  • Economic-development organizations

  • Workforce-development organizations

 

Projects must serve one or more eligible rural areas in Michigan.

​

Applicants should review the official rural-area eligibility requirements and grant guidelines to confirm that the proposed project and service area qualify.

 

Description

The Michigan Rural Development Fund supports projects that strengthen rural communities, local economies, infrastructure, workforce systems and regional capacity throughout Michigan.

The 2027 program provides two funding categories.

​

Community and Business Development grants support projects involving infrastructure, community facilities, job creation and retention, workforce development, business development, agriculture, food access, forestry, tourism, planning and organizational capacity.

​

Regional Collaboration grants support formal partnerships and shared-service models that help multiple communities or organizations address needs across more than one county.

​

The program begins with a required Letter of Intent. Selected applicants will be invited to submit a complete application.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $100,000 for Community and Business Development projects

  • 🀝 Up to $200,000 for eligible Regional Collaboration projects

  • πŸ’΅ Approximately $4 million available for the 2027 grant cycle

  • 🏒 Businesses, nonprofits and public organizations may qualify

  • πŸͺΆ Federally recognized Tribes may apply

  • πŸŽ“ Educational institutions may qualify

  • 🌾 Projects must benefit eligible rural Michigan areas

  • πŸ—οΈ Supports infrastructure and community-facility projects

  • πŸ‘· Supports workforce and economic development

  • 🌲 May support agriculture, forestry, tourism and food-access initiatives

  • πŸ“„ A Letter of Intent is required before the full application stage

 

Best For

  • Rural Michigan businesses

  • Rural community-development organizations

  • Local governments

  • Tribal governments and organizations

  • Economic-development agencies

  • Workforce-development organizations

  • Educational institutions

  • Regional planning agencies

  • Agriculture and food-access initiatives

  • Rural tourism projects

  • Infrastructure and community-facility projects

  • Organizations developing multi-county partnerships

  • Communities seeking shared staffing, expertise or operational systems

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • A completed Letter of Intent using the official template

  • Applicant and organization information

  • Project description

  • Identification of the rural area or communities served

  • Funding category selection

  • Description of the community or regional need

  • Proposed project goals and anticipated results

  • Preliminary project budget

  • Information about participating partners

  • Documentation of matching funds, if required

  • Additional information required by the official grant guidelines

 

Applicants invited to the second stage will be required to submit a complete application with more detailed project, budget and organizational information.

Review the official guidelines and Letter of Intent template before submitting.

 

Application Fee

No application fee is stated in the official program information.

​

Applicants should confirm all current requirements through the official Michigan Rural Development Fund materials.

 

Important Notes

  • The November 2 deadline is for the required Letter of Intent.

  • Submitting a Letter of Intent does not guarantee an invitation to complete the full application.

  • Invited applicants will be able to access the full application beginning December 2, 2026.

  • Invited full applications are due January 13, 2027.

  • Projects must serve an eligible rural Michigan area.

  • Applicants should select the funding category that best matches the proposed project.

  • Regional Collaboration projects should demonstrate a formal partnership or shared-service model.

  • Applicants should carefully review the official rural eligibility requirements.

  • Funding decisions are expected to be announced in April 2027.

 

Insight

The Michigan Rural Development Fund is a particularly strong opportunity because it accepts a broad range of applicants, including businesses, individuals, nonprofits, Tribes, educational institutions, local governments and economic-development organizations.

​

The program can support both direct community and business-development projects and larger regional collaborations. This makes it useful for projects that may not fit the narrow requirements of traditional small-business grants.

​

The two-stage process is important. Applicants must submit a Letter of Intent by November 2 and receive an invitation before completing the full application. Interested applicants should begin reviewing the guidelines and preparing their project summary immediately.

​

Letter of Intent Deadline: November 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

​

NSF SBIR/STTR — America's Seed Fund

Award Amount

Phase I awards up to $305,000

Phase II awards may reach $1.25 million.

 

Deadline

November 4, 2026

Due by 5:00 PM in the submitting organization's local time.

 

Category

Federal Small Business Grants
Technology Grants
Innovation Grants
Research & Development Grants
SBIR/STTR

 

Eligibility

Designed for qualifying U.S. small businesses developing innovative, high-impact technologies.

Applicants must satisfy NSF SBIR/STTR eligibility and submission requirements.

 

Description

America's Seed Fund powered by NSF supports research and development of deep technologies with potential for significant commercial and societal impact.

NSF funding is equity-free, and awardees retain ownership of their companies and intellectual property.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Phase I up to $305,000

  • πŸš€ Deep-technology innovation

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Federal program

  • πŸ“ˆ Commercialization potential

  • πŸ”¬ Research and development

  • 🏒 Equity-free funding

 

Best For

Technology startups, scientific ventures, engineering companies, research-intensive businesses and founders commercializing innovative technology.

 

Required Documents

Applicants must complete federal/company registrations and comply with NSF's proposal requirements.

 

Application Fee

No NSF application fee.

 

Important Notes

This is not a general small-business grant. Applicants need a qualifying R&D/technology project and must follow NSF's application pathway.

 

Insight

This opportunity is best approached as research-and-development funding, not traditional small-business financing. Applicants should be able to clearly explain what is technically innovative about their solution, what important problem it solves, and why additional research and development is necessary before the technology can reach the market.

​

Before applying, founders should be prepared to define the technical risks they need to investigate, the research or development work the NSF funding would support, and the potential commercial market for the technology. A strong business idea alone is not enough—the proposal needs a credible technological innovation with significant commercial potential.

​

Because federal registrations and NSF proposal requirements can take time, do not wait until the deadline to begin the application process. Review the eligibility requirements and required registrations early, and make sure your technical objectives, budget, team capabilities, and commercialization opportunity are clearly documented.

​

One major advantage is that NSF funding is equity-free: qualifying founders can receive substantial R&D capital without giving up ownership in their company.

Buena Vista Facade Improvement Grant

 

Award Amount

Up to $5,000 per property

Provides up to 50% reimbursement of eligible project costs.

 

Application Deadline

November 6, 2026 at 4:00 PM

 

Category

Small Business Grants
Façade Grants
Virginia Business Grants
Commercial Property Improvement Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include:

  • Commercial property owners

  • Business tenants with property-owner approval

  • Owners of qualifying visually blighted residential properties within the program area

 

Description

The City of Buena Vista, Virginia provides financial assistance for exterior improvements that strengthen its business districts and gateway corridors.

Eligible improvements include painting, architectural restoration, signage, lighting and masonry repair.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $5,000

  • 🏒 Up to 50% reimbursement

  • πŸͺ§ Signage

  • 🎨 Painting

  • πŸ’‘ Lighting

  • 🧱 Architectural and masonry improvements

 

Best For

Commercial property owners and small-business tenants in eligible Buena Vista locations.

 

Required Documents

Applicants must complete the official application and submit required supporting materials.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

Projects completed before application submission are not eligible.

 

Insight

This opportunity is best approached as research-and-development funding, not traditional small-business financing. Applicants should be able to clearly explain what is technically innovative about their solution, what important problem it solves, and why additional research and development is necessary before the technology can reach the market.

​

Before applying, founders should be prepared to define the technical risks they need to investigate, the research or development work the NSF funding would support, and the potential commercial market for the technology. A strong business idea alone is not enough—the proposal needs a credible technological innovation with significant commercial potential.

​

Because federal registrations and NSF proposal requirements can take time, do not wait until the deadline to begin the application process. Review the eligibility requirements and required registrations early, and make sure your technical objectives, budget, team capabilities, and commercialization opportunity are clearly documented.

​

One major advantage is that NSF funding is equity-free: qualifying founders can receive substantial R&D capital without giving up ownership in their company.

Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation Grant

 

Award Amount

$1,000 – $20,000

 

Application Deadline

November 10, 2026

Applications submitted by this date will be considered for the Spring 2027 Award Round.

 

Funding Agency

Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation

 

Category

Nonprofit & Community Development Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must:

  • Be an IRS-qualified nonprofit organization located in the United States

  • Have recognized Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status

  • Not be classified as a private foundation

  • Submit funding requests that support the organization's programs, services, or community-based activities

The Foundation does not provide grants to individuals.

 

Description

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation provides grants to community-based nonprofit organizations throughout the United States, with an emphasis on organizations where a relatively small amount of funding can make a meaningful difference.

The Foundation supports a broad range of charitable organizations and programs, including museums and cultural organizations, performing arts programs, schools, hospitals, youth and senior programs, skills-training initiatives, programs serving persons with disabilities, environmental and wildlife protection efforts, and other community-based organizations.

Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Awards typically range from $1,000 – $20,000

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Available to qualifying nonprofit organizations throughout the United States

  • πŸŽ“ Supports educational and skills-training programs

  • 🎭 Supports museums, cultural organizations, and performing arts programs

  • πŸ‘₯ Supports programs serving youth, seniors, and persons with disabilities

  • 🌿 Environmental and wildlife protection programs may qualify

  • 🏘️ Broad support for community-based nonprofit organizations

  • πŸ“… Current application deadline is November 10, 2026

 

Best For

  • Community-based nonprofit organizations

  • Youth development organizations

  • Schools and educational programs

  • Skills-training programs

  • Senior-serving organizations

  • Organizations serving persons with disabilities

  • Museums and cultural organizations

  • Performing arts organizations

  • Environmental and wildlife organizations

  • Community programs where a smaller grant can create meaningful impact

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Organization and contact information

  • Information regarding nonprofit and tax-exempt status

  • Summary of the organization's purpose, programs, and population served

  • Summary explaining how the requested funding will be used

  • Letter of Request

  • Most recent IRS Form 990

  • Itemized program budget when requesting program support

  • IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter

  • Information regarding previous requests or awards from the Foundation

  • Additional financial information if requested during further review

 

Important Notes

  • ⚠️ Grants are available to qualifying nonprofit organizations—not individuals or for-profit businesses.

  • Applicants should make their two required summaries concise, specific, and easy to understand. The Foundation uses these summaries as an initial "elevator pitch" when reviewing applications.

  • The Letter of Request should explain the organization's purpose, programming, population served, proposed use of funds, and what distinguishes the organization from similar organizations.

  • The Foundation requests a plainly formatted, single-spaced Letter of Request without embedded photographs, graphs, charts, newsletters, or other supplemental materials.

  • Required attachments must be uploaded in PDF format.

  • Applicants should carefully review their application before submission because changes cannot be made after the application has been submitted.

  • Organizations should maintain only one Organization Profile within the Foundation's application portal.

 

Opportunity Score

CategoryRating

πŸ’° Funding Potentialβ­β­β­β­β˜†

🌎 Availability⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ Application Difficultyβ­β­β­β˜†β˜†

πŸ“ˆ Community Impact⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⏳ Time Commitmentβ­β­β­β˜†β˜†

 

Overall Opportunity Score

9.0 / 10

Insight

 

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation Grant is a strong opportunity for smaller and community-based nonprofit organizations seeking manageable awards of up to $20,000. Its greatest advantage is its broad nationwide eligibility and wide range of supported causes, including education, youth development, arts and culture, senior services, disability programs, environmental initiatives, and other community programs.

This opportunity is especially worth considering for organizations where $1,000 to $20,000 could make a noticeable difference in a specific program or service. Applicants should pay particular attention to the required summaries and Letter of Request, as the Foundation emphasizes clear, concise explanations of what the organization does, whom it serves, and exactly how the requested funding would be used.

USDA NIFA SBIR/STTR Phase II

 

Award Amount

$600,000–$650,000

Estimated total program funding: $24.75 million

 

Application Deadline

November 17, 2026

 

Category

Federal Grants
Agriculture Innovation Grants
SBIR/STTR Grants
Research & Development Grants

 

Eligibility

Only previous USDA SBIR/STTR Phase I recipients are eligible for this Phase II opportunity.

 

Description

USDA NIFA's SBIR/STTR Phase II program supports commercialization and continued development of technologies initially funded through Phase I.

​

The program promotes technological innovation in agriculture and related fields while strengthening the role of small businesses in federally supported research and development.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° $600,000–$650,000

  • πŸ’΅ $24.75 million total funding

  • πŸ”¬ Research and commercialization

  • 🌾 Agriculture innovation

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Federal program

  • 🚫 No matching requirement

 

Best For

USDA SBIR/STTR Phase I awardees ready to advance successful research toward commercialization.

 

Required Documents

Applicants must follow the current USDA NIFA Notice of Funding Opportunity and federal grant application requirements.

 

Application Fee

No application fee.

 

Important Notes

This is not open to first-time applicants. Phase I award status is required. 

 

Insight

For eligible USDA SBIR/STTR Phase I recipients, Phase II is an opportunity to turn promising early research into a solution that is significantly closer to commercialization. Applicants should use their Phase I results as evidence that the technology works and clearly explain what still needs to be developed, tested, validated, or scaled with Phase II funding.

 

Before applying, review your Phase I findings, identify measurable technical milestones for the next stage, strengthen your commercialization strategy, and be prepared to demonstrate a realistic market need for the innovation. With $600,000–$650,000 available and no matching requirement, this is substantial non-dilutive funding, so applicants should build a proposal that connects the science and technology to a credible pathway toward real-world agricultural use and commercial adoption.

Love’s Community Grant

 

Award Amount

Typically Up to $1,000 for Community Grants

Love’s states that Community Grant awards generally do not exceed $1,000.

Corporate Grants and Event Sponsorships are also available for qualifying nonprofit organizations in Oklahoma City and Houston; award amounts for those opportunities may vary.

 

Application Deadline

Next Application Window: October 1 – November 24, 2026

2026 Grant Cycle:

  • Q1: January 1 – February 24

  • Q2: April 1 – May 25

  • Q3: July 1 – August 24

  • Q4: October 1 – November 24

 

Applicants in the Q4 cycle are scheduled to receive notification by December 11, 2026.

 

Category

Nonprofit Grants
Community Grants
Youth Services Grants
K–12 Education Grants
Family & Community Support Grants
Veteran & Military Family Support

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must:

  • Have current 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code

  • Operate in a community where a Love’s location is present

  • Submit a request that aligns with Love’s charitable giving priorities

Love’s primarily supports organizations and initiatives related to youth services, K–12 education, family well-being, community needs, and programs supporting veterans and military families.

 

Geographic Requirements

Community Grants: Available to eligible nonprofit organizations in communities with Love’s locations outside Oklahoma City.

Corporate Grants & Event Sponsorships: Available to eligible nonprofit organizations located in Oklahoma City and Houston.

Organizations should verify that their location and proposed project meet Love’s geographic requirements before applying.

 

Description

Love’s supports nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities where the company operates.

Through its charitable giving program, Love’s invests in organizations and initiatives serving youth, schools, families, communities, veterans, and military families.

Its Community Grant program provides funding to qualifying 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in communities where Love’s operates. Community Grant awards typically do not exceed $1,000.

Love’s also provides Corporate Grants and Event Sponsorships to qualifying nonprofit organizations in Oklahoma City and Houston.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Community Grant awards typically up to $1,000

  • 🏒 Open to qualifying 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations

  • πŸ“š Supports K–12 education

  • πŸ§’ Supports youth services

  • πŸ‘¨‍πŸ‘©‍πŸ‘§ Supports family well-being and community initiatives

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Includes support for veterans and military families

  • πŸ“ Available in communities where Love’s locations are present

  • πŸ“… Multiple application cycles throughout the year

  • πŸ”„ Recurring grant opportunity

 

Best For

  • 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations

  • Youth development programs

  • K–12 education initiatives

  • Programs supporting children and families

  • Community-based nonprofit organizations

  • Veteran-support organizations

  • Military-family programs

  • Local nonprofits operating near Love’s locations

  • Eligible Oklahoma City and Houston nonprofits seeking corporate grants or event sponsorships

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide information regarding:

  • Current 501(c)(3) nonprofit status

  • Organization background and mission

  • Program or project requesting support

  • Community served

  • Funding need and intended use of funds

  • Geographic relationship to a Love’s location

  • Additional organizational and financial information requested within the official application

Applicants should review the official application for complete documentation and submission requirements.

 

Application Fee

No application fee is stated in the provided grant information.

Applicants should confirm current requirements through the official Love’s grant application before submitting.

 

Ineligible Requests

Love’s does not provide funding for:

  • Individuals

  • Political candidates or campaigns

  • Tickets for purchase

  • In-store fundraising solicitations for nonprofit organizations

  • Religious causes

 

Important Notes

  • Applicants must have current 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt status.

  • This opportunity is not intended for for-profit small businesses or individual entrepreneurs.

  • Applicants must operate in communities where Love’s has locations.

  • Community Grant awards typically do not exceed $1,000.

  • Corporate Grants and Event Sponsorships have more limited geographic eligibility.

  • Submission of an application does not guarantee funding.

  • Love’s recommends submitting applications well before funding is needed to allow sufficient review time.

  • The next 2026 application window opens October 1, 2026 and closes November 24, 2026.

 

Insight

Love’s Community Grants are a useful addition to JTB because they expand the grant database beyond traditional small-business funding and provide a credible opportunity specifically for nonprofit organizations.

Although the typical Community Grant award is relatively modest at up to approximately $1,000, the recurring application cycles and focus on local community organizations can make this opportunity particularly useful for smaller nonprofits seeking funding for youth programs, education, family services, veteran support, and other community initiatives.

​

Applicants should pay particular attention to the geographic requirement. An organization should confirm that it operates in a community served by Love’s before investing time in an application.

​

Next Application Window: October 1 – November 24, 2026

2026 Q4 Notification Date: December 11, 2026

Mecklenburg County Business Growth Grant

 

Award Amount

Up to $50,000

1:1 matching grant.

Four grants are expected.

 

Application Deadline

November 30, 2026

 

Category

Small Business Grants
Virginia Business Grants
Business Expansion Grants
Equipment Grants

 

Eligibility

Businesses must generally:

  • Be locally owned and located in Mecklenburg County, Virginia

  • Employ 5–50 full- or part-time employees

  • Have operated for at least one year

  • Maintain required business licensing

  • Be compliant with county programs, ordinances and taxes

 

Description

The Business Growth Grant helps Mecklenburg County small businesses make one-time investments that create measurable business growth.

Eligible uses can include new equipment, tools, professional services and computer hardware/software.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $50,000

  • 🀝 1:1 match

  • πŸ› οΈ Equipment and tools

  • πŸ’» Hardware/software

  • πŸ“ˆ Expansion and growth

  • πŸ‘₯ Job creation

 

Best For

Established Mecklenburg County businesses preparing to increase production, add products/services, reach new customers or expand employment.

 

Required Documents

Application, quotes, business license and signed IRS Form W-9, plus other required materials.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

Routine operating expenses and ordinary replacement equipment generally do not qualify. Home-based businesses may apply when expenses are clearly business-related. Invest in Meck VA

 

Insight

This grant is best suited for established businesses that can connect a specific one-time investment to measurable business growth. Rather than simply requesting funding for new equipment, technology, or professional services, applicants should explain what that investment will allow the business to do next—such as increase production capacity, introduce a new product or service, reach additional customers, improve efficiency, or create jobs. Before applying, identify the business constraint the proposed purchase will solve, obtain detailed quotes, and estimate the results you expect the investment to produce.

​

Because the program requires a 1:1 match, businesses considering the full $50,000 award should also make sure they have the financial capacity to provide their share of the project costs. Build a clear project budget and gather documentation early, and avoid framing routine expenses or ordinary replacement purchases as growth investments. The strongest project will show a clear connection between the investment being requested, the opportunity it creates, and the measurable growth expected to follow.

Mecklenburg County E-Commerce Grant

 

Award Amount

Up to $10,000

1:1 matching grant.

Up to two grants expected.

 

Application Deadline

November 30, 2026

 

Category

Small Business Grants
E-Commerce Grants
Technology Grants
Virginia Business Grants

 

Eligibility

Applicants must generally:

  • Be a small business physically located in Mecklenburg County, Virginia

  • Have operated for at least one year

  • Meet county program requirements

Eligible home-based businesses may qualify.

 

Description

The E-Commerce Grant helps local businesses create or improve their ability to sell products and services online.

Funding may support new e-commerce websites, online stores, mobile applications, shopping carts, online ordering, payment processing and related point-of-sale integrations.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $10,000

  • 🀝 1:1 matching

  • πŸ›’ E-commerce websites

  • πŸ“± Mobile applications

  • πŸ’³ Payment processing

  • 🏠 Eligible home-based businesses may apply

 

Best For

Retailers, service businesses, home-based businesses and local companies that need to build or expand online sales capabilities.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

The project must directly support online sales rather than simply creating a general informational website. 

 

Insight

This grant can be especially valuable for an established local business that has relied primarily on in-person sales and is ready to create a stronger online revenue stream. Applicants should think beyond simply requesting money for a new website—the project should clearly show how the proposed technology will make it easier for customers to purchase, order, book, or pay online and how that improvement could increase sales or expand the business's customer reach.

 

Before applying, identify the specific e-commerce tools you need, obtain realistic cost estimates, and determine how you will provide the required 1:1 match. A focused project—such as adding a complete online store, integrating online ordering and payments, or improving an existing e-commerce system—can make it easier to demonstrate exactly how the investment will support measurable business growth.

​

​

Mecklenburg County Home-Based Business

Transition Grant

 

Award Amount

Up to $15,000

1:1 matching funds.

Two grants expected.

 

Application Deadline

November 30, 2026

 

Category

Home-Based Business Grants
Small Business Grants
Business Expansion Grants
Virginia Business Grants

 

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Currently operate a home-based business in Mecklenburg County

  • Have operated for at least one year

  • Be transitioning into a commercial location in Mecklenburg County

  • Meet licensing and county compliance requirements

 

Description

This grant helps established home-based entrepreneurs move into commercial space.

Eligible costs may include equipment, furnishings, inventory, lease/purchase down payments, renovations, minor repairs and utility connection fees.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $15,000

  • 🏠 Specifically for home-based businesses

  • 🏒 Supports commercial-space transition

  • πŸͺ‘ Equipment and furnishings

  • πŸ”¨ Renovations

  • 🀝 1:1 match

 

Best For

Growing home-based businesses that have outgrown their current space and are ready for a storefront, office or other commercial location.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

The commercial property cannot be acquired before grant approval. Routine monthly operating expenses do not qualify. 

 

Insight

Moving from a home-based operation into commercial space can create significant upfront costs before the new location generates additional revenue, making this grant particularly useful for businesses that are financially and operationally ready to make that transition.

 

Applicants should be prepared to show why commercial space is the logical next step for the business, whether that means serving more customers, increasing production, hiring employees, carrying additional inventory, or expanding services.

 

Before applying, develop a realistic transition budget that includes the eligible equipment, furnishings, renovations, deposits, inventory and other startup costs associated with the new location, and confirm that you can provide the required 1:1 match. Most importantly, do not acquire the commercial property before receiving grant approval; review the program requirements first so an early lease or purchase does not jeopardize your eligibility.

Mecklenburg County Commercial Property

Demolition Grant

Award Amount

Up to $50,000

1:1 matching funds.

Two grants expected.

 

Application Deadline

November 30, 2026

 

Category

Commercial Property Grants
Redevelopment Grants
Small Business Property Grants
Virginia Economic Development Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible properties must generally:

  • Contain a blighted or unsafe structure or conditions preventing commercial development

  • Be located in a commercially zoned Mecklenburg County corridor or on a town's dilapidated-property list

  • Meet county compliance requirements

 

Description

The program assists with demolition and cleanup of qualifying blighted or underused commercial properties to return those sites to productive economic use.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $50,000

  • 🏚️ Commercial demolition

  • 🧹 Cleanup costs

  • 🏒 Redevelopment-focused

  • 🀝 1:1 matching funds

 

Best For

Commercial property owners seeking to remove unsafe or blighted structures and prepare properties for redevelopment.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

Home-based businesses, residential properties and nonprofits are not eligible. Work cannot begin before grant approval. Invest in Meck VA

 

Insight

This grant can help property owners overcome one of the biggest barriers to commercial redevelopment: the upfront cost of removing a deteriorated or unsafe structure before a site can be put back into productive use. Applicants should be prepared to explain what is preventing the property from being developed now and what becomes possible once the demolition and cleanup are completed. A stronger application will connect the demolition project to a realistic redevelopment plan—such as preparing the property for a new or expanding business, commercial construction, or another productive economic use.

​

Because this is a 1:1 matching grant, applicants should obtain demolition and cleanup estimates early and confirm they can provide their share of the project costs. Most importantly, do not begin demolition or cleanup before receiving grant approval. Review the program requirements first, document the property's current condition, and develop a clear plan showing how the grant-funded work will move the site from blight or underuse toward commercial redevelopment.

Mecklenburg County Tourism Marketing Support Grant

 

Award Amount

Three funding tracks:

  • Digital Marketing Boost: up to $5,000

  • Content Creation: up to $5,000

  • Big Impact Marketing: up to $10,000

 

Application Deadline

November 30, 2026

 

Category

Tourism Grants
Marketing Grants
Small Business Grants
Virginia Business Grants

 

Eligibility

Depending on the funding track, eligible applicants include Mecklenburg County tourism businesses, attractions, nonprofits, Destination Marketing Organizations, Chambers of Commerce, Main Street organizations and towns.

 

Description

This program helps Mecklenburg County tourism partners attract visitors, encourage overnight stays and strengthen the county's visitor economy.

Eligible marketing activities can include digital advertising, professional photography, videography, printed materials and larger promotional campaigns.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $10,000

  • πŸ“£ Marketing funding

  • πŸ“Έ Professional photography

  • πŸŽ₯ Video production

  • πŸ’» Digital advertising

  • 🧳 Tourism-focused

 

Best For

Hotels, attractions, tourism businesses, destination organizations, chambers and tourism-related nonprofits.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

Applicants should select the funding track that corresponds to their organization and proposed project. 

 

Insight

Applicants should start by identifying the specific tourism result they want their marketing investment to produce—more visitors, increased overnight stays, stronger awareness of an attraction or event, or greater visitor spending—and then select the funding track that best supports that goal. For example, an organization that already has strong visual assets but needs greater reach may benefit more from digital advertising, while a tourism business without professional photos or video may get greater long-term value from the Content Creation track.

​

Before applying, develop a focused marketing plan that identifies the target visitor, the campaign or content you want to create, where it will be promoted, and how you will measure results. Avoid approaching the grant simply as funding for “more marketing.” A stronger proposal will demonstrate how the proposed marketing activity can attract visitors to Mecklenburg County and contribute to the broader local tourism economy.

Montana Tribal Tourism Small Business Grant

 

Award Amount

Up to $10,000

No matching funds are required.

A total of approximately $240,000 is available, with approximately 24 awards anticipated.

 

Application Deadline

November 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

Applications opened October 1, 2026.

 

Category

Native American Business Grants
Minority-Owned Business Grants
Montana Business Grants
Tourism Business Grants
Startup Grants
Small-Business Expansion Grants

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Be an enrolled citizen of one of the 12 federally recognized Tribes in Montana

  • Provide acceptable documentation of tribal enrollment

  • Operate or plan to start an eligible tourism-related business in Montana

  • Establish a State of Montana OKTA account before accessing the application

  • Meet all additional requirements contained in the official grant guidelines

 

Eligible businesses must generally fall within one of the following categories:

  • Native American Made in Montana retail products

  • Hosted accommodations or visitor experiences, including vacation rentals and tours

  • Licensed hunting or fishing outfitting and guiding

  • Licensed food, beverage or grocery businesses, including food trucks

  • Other operational businesses supplying or serving Montana tribal tourism

 

Description

The Montana Tribal Tourism Small Business Grant supports startup and expanding Native American-owned tourism businesses operating in Montana.

​

The program is designed to strengthen tribal tourism, support Native entrepreneurs and expand the products, services and experiences available to visitors.

​

Eligible businesses may include Native American-made retail-product companies, accommodations, tours, licensed outfitters and guides, food trucks, grocery businesses and other businesses connected to tribal tourism.

​

Selected businesses may receive up to $10,000 with no matching-fund requirement.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Awards of up to $10,000

  • πŸ†“ No matching funds required

  • πŸ’΅ Approximately $240,000 in total program funding

  • πŸ† Approximately 24 awards anticipated

  • πŸͺΆ Designed for enrolled citizens of Montana’s federally recognized Tribes

  • πŸŒ„ Supports startup and expanding tourism businesses

  • πŸ›οΈ Includes Native American-made retail businesses

  • 🏑 Includes hosted accommodations, vacation rentals and tours

  • 🎣 Includes licensed hunting and fishing outfitters or guides

  • 🍽️ Includes licensed food, beverage, grocery and food-truck businesses

  • πŸ“ˆ Supports business startup, development and expansion

 

Best For

  • Native American entrepreneurs in Montana

  • Tribal tourism businesses

  • Native American-made product businesses

  • Tourism-focused retail companies

  • Tour and visitor-experience operators

  • Vacation-rental and accommodation businesses

  • Licensed outfitters and guides

  • Food trucks

  • Licensed food and beverage businesses

  • Grocery businesses serving tribal communities or tourists

  • Existing Native-owned tourism businesses preparing to expand

  • Native entrepreneurs preparing to launch an eligible tourism business

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Documentation of tribal enrollment

  • A Certified Indian Blood Form or tribal identification

  • State of Montana OKTA account information

  • Applicant and business contact information

  • Business ownership information

  • Description of the tourism business

  • Business plan or business-development information

  • Project description

  • Proposed use of grant funds

  • Project budget

  • Business licenses or professional licenses, when applicable

  • Additional documents required by the official program guidelines and application

 

Applications submitted without the required tribal-enrollment documentation will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed.

 

Application Fee

No application fee is stated in the official program information.

Applicants should confirm all current requirements through the official application and grant guidelines.

 

Important Notes

  • Applicants must be enrolled citizens of one of the 12 federally recognized Tribes in Montana.

  • Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

  • Proof of tribal enrollment is mandatory.

  • The proposed business must be connected to Montana tribal tourism.

  • Applicants must establish a State of Montana OKTA account before accessing the application.

  • Businesses requiring professional, food-service, outfitting or other licenses must satisfy the applicable licensing requirements.

  • Awards may provide up to $10,000.

  • No matching funds are required.

  • Applications close November 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

  • Applicants should allow time to establish their OKTA account and collect tribal-enrollment documentation before the deadline.

 

Insight

The Montana Tribal Tourism Small Business Grant is an excellent targeted opportunity for Native American entrepreneurs developing businesses connected to Montana’s tourism economy.

​

Its greatest strengths are the $10,000 maximum award, the absence of a matching requirement and its availability to both startup and expanding businesses. The program also covers several business models, including retail products, accommodations, tours, guiding services, food businesses and other tourism-supporting operations.

​

Applicants should not wait until the final days to begin. Establishing an OKTA account, gathering tribal-enrollment documentation and preparing a clear business plan and use-of-funds explanation may require additional time.

​

Deadline: November 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

 

Shophand $5K Small Business Boost Grant

 

Award Amount

$5,000 total value

  • $2,500 unrestricted cash

  • $2,500 in Shophand technical support and services

 

Application Deadline

November 30, 2026

 

Category

Small Business Grants
Technology Grants
Business Operations Grants
Entrepreneur Grants

 

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be U.S.-based

  • Operate a for-profit business

  • Be actively operating

  • Have fewer than 50 employees

  • Generate under $5 million annually

  • Follow Shophand on its specified social platforms

 

Solopreneurs are eligible.

 

Description

The Shophand Small Business Boost Grant helps entrepreneurs overcome technology, marketing and operational challenges.

Support can include AI and automation, creative/media assistance, marketing technology, operations, software setup and related services.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° $2,500 cash

  • πŸ› οΈ $2,500 services

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Nationwide

  • πŸ‘€ Solopreneurs eligible

  • πŸ’» Technology and automation support

  • πŸ“£ Marketing assistance

  • πŸ†“ Free application

 

Best For

Solopreneurs and small businesses struggling with technology, marketing systems, automation, operations or software.

 

Required Documents

The application requests basic business information, business description, primary business challenge and explanation of how Shophand support could help.

 

Application Fee

Free

No purchase or subscription is required.

 

Important Notes

Shophand states that applicants who have used a Your Shophand service during the current cycle may receive preference, although purchasing a service is not required to apply. 

 

Insight

This opportunity may be especially useful for solopreneurs and small-business owners who know something in their business is slowing growth but have not had the time, technical expertise, or resources to fix it. Instead of giving a broad answer such as “I need help with marketing,” applicants should identify one specific operational or technology problem—for example, repetitive manual tasks that could be automated, disconnected software systems, an inefficient customer process, weak digital marketing infrastructure, or a content-production bottleneck—and explain how solving it would improve the business.

​

Because the award combines $2,500 in unrestricted cash with $2,500 in technical support, think strategically about how the two portions could work together. The cash could address an immediate business need while Shophand's services help build a system or capability that continues producing value after the grant ends. Solopreneurs should not overlook this opportunity simply because they do not have employees; the program specifically allows solo business owners, making it one of the more accessible national opportunities for very small businesses.

Truist Foundation Grant

Award Amount

Varies by project and organization

Truist Foundation does not publish a standard grant amount for all applicants. Funding levels are determined based on the proposed program, organizational needs, alignment with the Foundation's priorities, and scope of impact.

 

Application Deadline

November 30, 2026

Truist Foundation has three annual grant cycles. Requests should be received by:

  • March 31 — applicants notified of outcome in July

  • July 31 — applicants notified of outcome in November

  • November 30 — applicants notified of outcome in April

The next application deadline is November 30, 2026.

 

Funding Agency

Truist Foundation

 

Category

Nonprofit Grants | Economic Mobility Grants | Workforce Development Grants | Small Business Development Grants | Community Impact Grants

 

Eligibility

Truist Foundation supports nonprofit organizations serving the critical needs of adults in their communities.

Eligible organizations and programs should align with at least one of the Foundation's two primary areas of focus:

  • Building career pathways to economic mobility

  • Strengthening small businesses

Programs should demonstrate a sustainable approach to creating greater economic opportunity within the communities they serve.

Important: Although strengthening small businesses is one of Truist Foundation's primary funding priorities, these grants are awarded to qualifying nonprofit organizations that provide programs or services supporting small businesses. They are not direct grants to individual small-business owners or for-profit businesses.

 

Description

Truist Foundation provides philanthropic funding to nonprofit organizations working to create greater economic opportunity for adults and communities.

The Foundation concentrates its grantmaking around two primary priorities: building career pathways to economic mobility and strengthening small businesses.

Rather than supporting recurring expenses, Truist Foundation generally looks for sustainable initiatives and investments that can strengthen or expand an organization's ability to serve its community.

Potential funding needs may include:

  • Launching a new program

  • Developing or expanding curriculum

  • Strengthening an existing program

  • Purchasing equipment necessary to deliver a program

  • Supporting qualifying capital needs

Capital campaign requests may also be considered when the campaign aligns with Truist Foundation's priorities and has already reached at least 60% of its fundraising goal through donations and pledges.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’Ό Focuses on strengthening small businesses

  • πŸ“ˆ Supports career pathways and economic mobility

  • πŸ‘₯ Programs should primarily serve adults

  • πŸ“… Three grant cycles each year

  • πŸš€ May fund new program launches

  • πŸ“š May support curriculum development or expansion

  • πŸ› οΈ Equipment needed to deliver qualifying programs may be funded

  • 🏒 Certain capital needs may qualify

  • 🀝 Designed to create sustainable community impact

  • πŸ’‘ Supports innovative nonprofit programs addressing economic opportunity

 

Best For

  • Nonprofits supporting entrepreneurs and small-business owners

  • Workforce development organizations

  • Career training programs

  • Adult education and skills-development programs

  • Entrepreneurship education programs

  • Nonprofits providing technical assistance to small businesses

  • Organizations helping adults obtain sustainable employment

  • Community economic-development organizations

  • Nonprofits launching or expanding economic-mobility programs

  • Organizations seeking equipment or curriculum funding for eligible programs

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide organizational and program information through Truist Foundation's online grant application system.

Information and documentation may include:

  • Organization information

  • Verification of nonprofit status

  • Description of the proposed program or initiative

  • Funding request and proposed use of funds

  • Organizational and/or program budget information

  • Description of the population served

  • Program goals and anticipated outcomes

  • Information demonstrating alignment with Truist Foundation's funding priorities

  • Measurement and evaluation information

  • Additional documentation requested during the application process

Organizations receiving funding will also be required to complete a Grant Agreement and provide payment information.

Depending on the size and structure of the grant, recipients may be required to submit Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) reports quarterly, bi-annually, or annually.

 

Important Notes

  • ⚠️ This is not a direct small-business grant. Small-business owners and for-profit businesses should not interpret the Foundation's "strengthening small businesses" priority as direct funding for their individual businesses.

  • Applicants should be qualifying nonprofit organizations providing programs or services that support adults, economic mobility, workforce development, or small businesses.

  • Programs should primarily address the critical needs of adults in their communities.

  • Funding should align with one of Truist Foundation's two major priorities: building career pathways to economic mobility or strengthening small businesses.

  • The Foundation favors sustainable needs rather than recurring expenditures.

  • Potential eligible uses include new program launches, curriculum development or expansion, equipment needed to deliver programs, and certain capital needs.

  • Capital campaigns may be considered when aligned with Foundation priorities and the campaign has reached at least 60% of its fundraising goal through donations and pledges.

  • Grant recipients should be prepared for ongoing reporting and impact measurement requirements.

  • Organizations should carefully review Truist Foundation's current guidelines before submitting an application.

 

Opportunity Score

CategoryRating

πŸ’° Funding Potentialβ­β­β­β­β˜†

🌎 Availabilityβ­β­β­β­β˜†

πŸ“ Application Difficultyβ­β­β­β˜†β˜†

πŸ“ˆ Community Impact⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⏳ Time Commitmentβ­β­β­β˜†β˜†

 

Overall Opportunity Score

8.8 / 10

 

Insight

The Truist Foundation Grant is a strong opportunity for established nonprofit organizations working at the intersection of economic mobility, workforce development, entrepreneurship, and small-business support.

Its small-business focus makes it especially noteworthy; however, organizations should understand the distinction between supporting small businesses and directly funding them. Truist Foundation funds qualifying nonprofit organizations that create programs and resources for small businesses and entrepreneurs, rather than providing grants directly to individual business owners.

The three annual grant cycles also give organizations multiple opportunities to apply throughout the year. Nonprofits with well-developed programs, measurable outcomes, and a clear strategy for creating sustainable economic opportunity may find this an especially valuable funding opportunity.

Organizations considering an application should demonstrate a strong connection between their proposed initiative and one of Truist Foundation's two core priorities and clearly explain how the funding will produce sustainable, measurable community impact.

Garrett County FY 2027

Small Business Marketing Grant

Award Amount

Up to $1,000

Minimum 10% match required.

 

Application Deadline

March 31, 2027 — or earlier if funds are exhausted

APPLY EARLY

 

Category

Small Business Grants
Marketing Grants
Maryland Business Grants
Local Business Grants

 

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be a for-profit, non-agricultural business

  • Have a physical location in Garrett County, Maryland

  • Meet local licensing and good-standing requirements

FY 2026 recipients are not eligible for FY 2027 funding.

 

Description

The Small Business Marketing Grant helps local businesses pay for marketing and promotional activities that increase visibility, attract customers and support growth.

Funding is reimbursement-based.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $1,000

  • πŸ“£ Marketing and promotion

  • 🀝 Only 10% minimum match

  • πŸ“ Garrett County

  • ⏳ First-come, first-served

  • ⚠️ Funding may run out before deadline

 

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare:

  • Application

  • Cost estimates/vendor quotes

  • Employee information

  • Business license when required

  • Maryland good-standing verification

  • IRS W-9

  • Vendor Information Request form

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

Applicants must receive written approval before making purchases. Awards are taxable income. 

 

Insight

Although the maximum award is $1,000, this grant can still fund a focused marketing project with a clear business objective. Rather than spreading the funding across several unrelated activities, applicants should consider one marketing investment that could produce measurable value—such as reaching a new customer audience, promoting a specific product or service, improving local visibility, or supporting a targeted seasonal campaign. Obtain vendor quotes early and be prepared to explain what you plan to purchase, who you are trying to reach, and how the marketing investment could help generate additional customers or sales.

​

Because funding is first-come, first-served and may be exhausted before the March 31 deadline, applying early matters. Applicants should gather their business license, good-standing verification, W-9, vendor information and cost estimates as soon as possible. Most importantly, do not make purchases before receiving written approval, since doing so could make those expenses ineligible for reimbursement. With only a 10% minimum match required, qualifying businesses may be able to turn a relatively small out-of-pocket investment into a useful marketing push.

Pennsylvania Small Business Advantage Grant

 

Award Amount

Up to $7,500–$12,000, depending on project type, environmental impact and location.

Provides reimbursement of approximately 50%–80% of eligible project costs.

 

Application Deadline

March 19, 2027 OR when funds are fully committed

APPLY EARLY

 

Category

Small Business Grants
Pennsylvania Business Grants
Energy Efficiency Grants
Environmental Grants

 

Eligibility

Pennsylvania businesses with 100 or fewer full-time employees may qualify.

Projects generally must improve energy efficiency or reduce pollution, waste or environmental impacts.

 

Description

Pennsylvania's Small Business Advantage Grant reimburses small businesses for eligible projects that improve energy efficiency or reduce pollution and waste.

Common projects include lighting, HVAC, boilers and other equipment upgrades.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $12,000

  • ♻️ Energy efficiency

  • 🌱 Pollution/waste reduction

  • 🏒 Businesses with 100 or fewer employees

  • ⚑ Equipment upgrades

  • ⏳ First-come, first-served

 

Best For

Pennsylvania small businesses planning energy-efficient equipment upgrades or qualifying environmental improvements.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

Eligible applications are reviewed first-come, first-served, and the program may close before March 19 if funds are committed. 

 

Insight

This grant is worth considering if your business is already planning to replace outdated equipment or make facility improvements that could lower energy costs, reduce waste, or decrease pollution. Instead of viewing the project simply as an equipment purchase, applicants should calculate the potential operational savings and environmental benefits the upgrade could produce. Gather equipment specifications, project estimates, current energy or operating costs, and information showing how the proposed improvement will reduce energy consumption, waste, or environmental impact. These details can help demonstrate why the project qualifies and the measurable difference the investment could make.

​

Because awards can reimburse approximately 50%–80% of eligible project costs, depending on the project, qualifying businesses may be able to make improvements that would otherwise be difficult to fund entirely on their own. However, funding is awarded first-come, first-served and can be fully committed before the March 19, 2027 deadline, so businesses with a qualifying project should not treat March as their target application date. Review the program requirements, determine your expected out-of-pocket share, gather project documentation, and apply as early as possible while funding remains available.

Seguin Business Improvement Grant Program

 

Award Amount

Up to 75% of eligible project costs, with a maximum reimbursement of $10,000 per year.

 

Application Deadline

Applications are currently being accepted for the 2026–2027 program and are subject to program funding availability.

 

Category

Small Business Grants
Texas Business Grants
Façade Improvement Grants
Commercial Property Grants

 

Eligibility

Designed for qualifying commercial property improvements within the City of Seguin, Texas.

Applicants must meet the requirements contained in the current BIG Program guidelines.

 

Description

Seguin's Business Improvement Grant Program supports development, renovation and expansion of commercial properties.

​

Eligible improvements can include façades, signage, site improvements and other real-property improvements.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $10,000 annually

  • πŸ“Š Up to 75% reimbursement

  • 🏒 Commercial property improvements

  • πŸͺ§ Sign improvements

  • πŸ”¨ Site improvements

  • πŸ“ Seguin, Texas

 

Best For

Seguin small-business owners and commercial-property businesses planning physical improvements.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

This is reimbursement funding, so applicants should carefully review approval requirements before beginning work. 

 

Insight

For Seguin businesses planning a storefront, signage, façade, or other commercial property improvement, this program could significantly reduce the business's out-of-pocket project cost by reimbursing up to 75% of eligible expenses, up to $10,000 per year. Applicants should begin by identifying the improvement that would make the greatest difference to the property and the business—whether that means improving curb appeal, making the location easier for customers to identify, upgrading an aging exterior, or preparing the property for business growth. Obtain detailed estimates and develop a realistic project budget so you understand both the potential reimbursement and the portion your business will need to fund.

 

Because this is a reimbursement program, do not assume expenses will qualify simply because the project appears eligible. Review the current program guidelines and obtain any required approvals before signing contracts, purchasing materials, or beginning construction. Funding is also subject to availability, so businesses with a planned qualifying project should consider applying early rather than waiting until improvements are ready to begin.

StartUp Hutch Rural Business

Resilience & Expansion

Initiative Microgrant

 

Award Amount

Up to $2,500

At least six microgrants are expected through the initiative.

 

Application Deadline

Rolling — applications currently open

 

Category

Rural Business Grants
Small Business Grants
Kansas Business Grants
Business Expansion Grants

 

Eligibility

Designed for existing small businesses located in rural Reno County, Kansas communities.

 

Description

StartUp Hutch's Rural Business Resilience & Expansion Initiative supports small businesses working to strengthen rural communities.

Funding can support business expansion, activation of underused spaces, essential local services and projects addressing gaps in local industries.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Up to $2,500

  • 🌾 Rural-business focused

  • πŸͺ Existing small businesses

  • πŸ“ˆ Expansion projects

  • 🏒 Underutilized-space activation

  • πŸ”„ Rolling applications

  • 🀝 Coaching and community support

 

Best For

Existing rural Reno County businesses seeking modest capital to expand, improve services or address unmet community needs.

 

Application Fee

No application fee stated.

 

Important Notes

This is geographically restricted to qualifying rural Reno County communities rather than all Kansas businesses.

 

Insight

With an award of up to $2,500, applicants should focus on a specific, achievable project where a relatively small investment can create a visible business or community impact. Rather than presenting a broad request for general business expenses, explain exactly what the funding would allow you to accomplish—such as adding a needed product or service, purchasing equipment that increases capacity, activating an unused commercial space, or addressing a service gap in your rural community. A strong application should connect the business need to the broader benefit: How will this project make your business more resilient while also strengthening the community it serves?

Because applications are accepted on a rolling basis, qualifying businesses should not assume that means there is unlimited time or funding available. Define your project, estimate the costs, and apply once you can clearly explain how the grant will be used and what will change as a result. Applicants should also take advantage of any coaching or business support available through StartUp Hutch, since the long-term value of this opportunity may extend beyond the $2,500 microgrant itself.

Amber Grant for Women

​

Award Amount

​

$10,000 Monthly Grant
Plus Eligibility for a $50,000 Year-End Grant

​

Application Deadline

​

Monthly Applications Accepted

​

Category

​

Women-Owned Business Grants

​

Eligibility

​

Eligible applicants include:

  • Women entrepreneurs

  • Women-owned businesses

  • Aspiring women business founders

  • Applicants located in the United States or Canada

 

Description

​

The Amber Grant helps women entrepreneurs start, grow, and expand their businesses through monthly grant funding and ongoing support. Applicants complete a simple application describing their business, goals, and how the funding will be used. Every application is automatically considered for multiple grant opportunities, including monthly awards and the $50,000 year-end grant.

​

Grant Highlights

​

  • πŸ’° $10,000 awarded every month

  • πŸ† Eligible for a $50,000 Year-End Grant

  • πŸ“… Applications accepted year-round

  • 🌎 Available to women entrepreneurs in the U.S. and Canada

  • πŸ“ Simple online application process

  • πŸ’Ό Open to businesses in virtually every industry

​

Best For

​

  • Women-owned startups

  • Small business owners

  • Side hustles

  • Service-based businesses

  • Product-based businesses

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs

  • Established women-owned companies seeking growth capital

​

Required Documents

​

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Business information

  • Description of your business

  • Funding goals

  • Plans for using the grant funds

  • Additional information requested during the application process

​

Application Fee

​

$15

​

Important Notes

​

  • Every application is automatically considered for multiple Amber Grant funding opportunities.

  • Winners may also become eligible for the $50,000 Year-End Amber Grant.

  • Applications are accepted monthly, giving entrepreneurs multiple opportunities to apply throughout the year.

 

Opportunity Score

​

Category

Rating

πŸ’° Funding Potential

β­β­β­β­β˜†

🌎 Availability

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ Application Difficulty

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ˆ Business Impact

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⏳ Time Commitment

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

​

Overall Opportunity Score

​

9.8 / 10

 

Insight

​

The Amber Grant is one of the best funding opportunities available for women entrepreneurs. Its straightforward application process, monthly award cycle, and automatic consideration for additional grants make it an excellent option for both new and established business owners. If you're a woman building a business, this should be one of the first grants on your application list.

 

​​

​

 

 

​

Galaxy Grant

Award Amount

​

$4,250

​

Application Deadline

​

Ongoing Monthly Applications

​

Category

​

Small Business Grants | Women-Owned Business Grants | Minority Business Grants

​

Funding Type

​

Private Grant

​

Status

​

Open

​

Eligibility

​

Eligible applicants include:

  • Small business owners

  • Entrepreneurs

  • Startups

  • Women-owned businesses

  • Minority-owned businesses

  • U.S.-based applicants

​

Description

​

The Galaxy Grant is a monthly funding opportunity that helps entrepreneurs and small business owners access capital to start, grow, and strengthen their businesses. Sponsored by Hidden Star, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the program focuses on supporting women, minority-owned, and underserved businesses through accessible funding opportunities and entrepreneurial resources. The application process is designed to be simple, allowing founders to apply in just a few minutes.

​

Grant Highlights

​

  • πŸ’° $4,250 Monthly Grant

  • πŸ“… Applications accepted every month

  • βœ… Free to apply

  • πŸš€ Supports startups and growing small businesses

  • πŸ‘©πŸ½‍πŸ’Ό Focuses on women-owned, minority-owned, and underserved businesses

  • 🀝 Sponsored by Hidden Star, a nonprofit dedicated to entrepreneurship

​

Best For

​

  • Startup businesses

  • Women entrepreneurs

  • Minority-owned businesses

  • Side hustles

  • Early-stage companies

  • Small business owners seeking growth capital

​

Required Documents

​

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Business information

  • Business description

  • Funding goals

  • Contact information

  • Additional application materials requested during the application process

​

Application Fee

​

Free

​

Important Notes

​

  • Applications are accepted on an ongoing monthly basis, giving entrepreneurs multiple opportunities to apply throughout the year.

  • The application is designed to be quick and user-friendly, making it ideal for first-time grant applicants.

  • Businesses may also gain access to additional entrepreneurial resources and support through Hidden Star.

​

Opportunity Score

​

Category

Rating

πŸ’° Funding Potential

β­β­β­β­β˜†

🌎 Availability

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ Application Difficulty

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ˆ Business Impact

β­β­β­β­β˜†

⏳ Time Commitment

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

​

Overall Opportunity Score

​

9.5 / 10

 

Insight
 

The Galaxy Grant is one of the most accessible funding opportunities available for entrepreneurs. With no application fee, a simple application process, and monthly funding opportunities, it's an excellent choice for startups, women-owned businesses, minority-owned businesses, and first-time applicants. If you're building or growing a business and looking for recurring funding opportunities, this grant should be part of your monthly application strategy.

 

​

 

 

​

HerRise MicroGrant

Award Amount

​

Varies (Monthly Awards)

​

Application Deadline

​

Applications Close on the Last Day of Each Month

​

Category

​

Women-Owned Business Grants

​

Funding Type

​

Private Grant

​

Status

​

Open – Monthly Applications Accepted

​

Eligibility

​

Eligible applicants include:

  • Women-owned businesses

  • Businesses registered in the United States

  • Businesses with less than $1 million in annual gross revenue

​

The following businesses are not eligible:

  • Nonprofit organizations

  • Franchises

  • Direct sellers

  • Authorized resellers

  • Independent consultants

​

Description

​

The HerRise MicroGrant provides monthly funding to women entrepreneurs who are building innovative businesses and creating positive change in their communities. Sponsored by HerSuiteSpot and its corporate partners, the program helps women business owners gain access to funding that may be difficult to secure through traditional financing. Applicants share their business story, goals, and plans for using the grant funds, with recipients announced each month during the HerSuiteSpot First Friday Mixer.

​

Grant Highlights

​

  • πŸ’° Monthly grant funding

  • πŸ“… Applications accepted every month

  • πŸ‘©πŸΎ Designed exclusively for women-owned businesses

  • πŸš€ Supports business growth and expansion

  • 🀝 Sponsored by HerSuiteSpot and corporate partners

  • 🌟 Winners announced during the monthly First Friday Mixer

​

Best For

​

  • Women entrepreneurs

  • Startup businesses

  • Service-based businesses

  • Product-based businesses

  • Growing small businesses

  • Women seeking expansion capital

​

Required Documents

​

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Business information

  • Business registration information

  • Business story

  • Funding goals

  • Plans for using the grant funds

  • Additional application materials requested during the application proces

​

Application Fee

​

​

$15 Administrative Fee

​

Important Notes

​

  • Applicants must own a U.S.-registered business with less than $1 million in annual gross revenue.

  • Nonprofits, franchises, direct sellers, authorized resellers, and independent consultants are not eligible.

  • Because applications are accepted monthly, entrepreneurs may have multiple opportunities to apply throughout the year.

Opportunity Score

Category

Rating

πŸ’° Funding Potential

β­β­β­β­β˜†

🌎 Availability

β­β­β­β­β˜†

πŸ“ Application Difficulty

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ˆ Business Impact

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⏳ Time Commitment

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

​

Overall Opportunity Score

9.6 / 10

Insight

The HerRise MicroGrant is one of the best recurring funding opportunities available for women-owned businesses. Its monthly application cycle gives entrepreneurs multiple chances to secure funding throughout the year, while the straightforward application process makes it accessible to both new and growing businesses. If your business meets the eligibility requirements, this grant deserves a place on your monthly funding calendar.​

​

​

YippityDoo Big Idea Grant

 

Award Amount

$1,000 Monthly Grant

Unrestricted funding to support women-owned businesses and business ideas

​

Application Deadline

Monthly Applications

Applications are due by the last day of each month

​

Category

Women-Owned Business Grants | Startup Grants | Small Business Grants | Entrepreneur Grants

​

Funding Type

Private Grant

​

Status

Currently Open – Monthly Applications Accepted

​

Elgibility:

  • Be a woman entrepreneur or small business owner age 18 or older

  • Be located within the United States

  • Own and operate a business that is at least 50% woman-owned and woman-run

  • Have an existing business or qualifying business idea

  • Complete the online grant application

  • Pay the required $15 non-refundable application fee

  • Agree to the program's Terms & Conditions

 

Description

The YippityDoo Big Idea Grant is a monthly private grant program designed to provide financial support to women entrepreneurs building or growing businesses in the United States. Each month, one eligible for-profit woman-owned business or business idea is selected to receive a $1,000 grant.

Unlike funding opportunities that require businesses to have an established operating history or minimum revenue level, the Big Idea Grant is open to both existing businesses and entrepreneurs who are still in the idea stage. Grant funds are unrestricted and may be used for startup expenses, marketing, operations, business development, or other needs that can help move the business forward.

Applications are evaluated primarily on the applicant's vision, passion for the business or idea, and intended use of the grant funds. The program also provides recipients with access to additional business support and coaching resources.

​

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° $1,000 monthly business grant

  • πŸ‘© Designed for women entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses

  • πŸš€ Open to both existing businesses and business ideas

  • πŸ’Ό Funds may be used for a variety of business needs

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Available to eligible applicants throughout the United States

  • πŸ“… New grant opportunity available each month

  • 🧠 Additional business support and coaching resources available

  • πŸ’³ $15 non-refundable application fee required

 

Best For

  • Women entrepreneurs launching a new business

  • Early-stage women-owned businesses

  • Founders who are still developing a business idea

  • Small businesses needing funding for marketing or operations

  • Entrepreneurs seeking flexible microgrant funding

​

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Personal contact information

  • Business or business idea information

  • Description of the applicant's vision or “Big Idea”

  • Explanation of why the business or idea is important to the applicant

  • Description of how the $1,000 grant would be used

  • Confirmation of eligibility requirements

  • $15 application fee

  • Additional information requested during the application process

 

Application Fee

$15 non-refundable application fee

​

Important Notes

  • One $1,000 grant is awarded monthly to an eligible for-profit women-owned business or business idea.

  • Applicants must be age 18 or older and located in the United States.

  • For-profit businesses must be at least 50% woman-owned and woman-run.

  • Applicants may have an established business or still be in the business idea stage.

  • Grant funds are unrestricted and may be used for qualifying business needs.

  • Applications are evaluated based on vision, passion, and intended use of the funding.

  • Applicants should review the current official Terms & Conditions before submitting an application.

  • A separate nonprofit Big Idea Grant program is available, with a $1,000 nonprofit award offered every other month.

  • The $15 application fee is required and is non-refundable.

 

Category Rating

πŸ’° Funding Potential

β­β­β­β˜†β˜†

🌎 Availability

β­β­β­β­β˜†

πŸ“ Application Difficulty

β­β­β˜†β˜†β˜†

πŸ“ˆ Business Impact

β­β­β­β˜†β˜†

⏳ Time Commitment

β­β­β˜†β˜†β˜†

 

Overall Opportunity Score

8.2 / 10

 

Insight

The YippityDoo Big Idea Grant is a useful opportunity for women entrepreneurs who may not qualify for grants requiring significant revenue, years in business, or extensive operating history. Its biggest advantage is accessibility: eligible applicants may apply with either an existing business or a business idea, making it particularly relevant for startups and early-stage entrepreneurs.

The $1,000 award is relatively modest, but unrestricted funding can still be valuable for targeted expenses such as marketing, equipment, software, inventory, licensing, or other startup and operating costs. The monthly award schedule also gives entrepreneurs recurring opportunities to pursue funding.

​

Applicants should consider the $15 non-refundable application fee when deciding whether the opportunity fits their funding strategy. Because applying does not guarantee an award, entrepreneurs should evaluate fee-based grants carefully and avoid relying on any single grant as their primary source of business funding.

For eligible women entrepreneurs comfortable with the application fee, the Big Idea Grant can be considered as one component of a broader grant and small-business funding strategy.

IFW by Honeycomb Universal Funding & Grant Application

​

 

Funding Amount

​

Varies

​

Application Deadline

​

Ongoing

​

Category

​

Business Funding Resources

​

Eligibility

​

Eligible applicants include:

  • Small business owners

  • Entrepreneurs

  • Startups

  • Growing businesses

  • Women entrepreneurs

  • Business founders seeking funding opportunities

​

Description

​

The IFW by Honeycomb Universal Funding & Grant Application simplifies the funding search by allowing entrepreneurs to complete one application for access to multiple funding opportunities. Businesses may be matched with grants, crowdfunding campaigns, investor funding, coaching programs, and business development resources offered by corporate partners and funding organizations.

​

Grant Highlights

​

  • πŸ’° Funding Amount: Varies

  • πŸ“„ One application for multiple funding opportunities

  • πŸš€ Access to grants, crowdfunding, and investor funding

  • 🀝 Business coaching and educational resources

  • πŸ’³ Opportunities from corporate partners including Visa, adidas, American Express, BOTOX® Cosmetic, Poker Power, and others

  • βœ… Free to apply

​

Best For

​

  • Startups

  • Small business owners

  • Women entrepreneurs

  • Growing businesses

  • Founders seeking multiple funding opportunities

  • Entrepreneurs looking for grants and business resources in one place

​

Required Documents

​

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Business information

  • Business description

  • Funding goals

  • Contact information

  • Additional information requested during the application process

​

Application Fee

​

Free

​

Important Notes

​

  • This is not a single grant, but a universal funding application that may connect your business with multiple funding opportunities.

  • Businesses may be matched with grants, investors, crowdfunding campaigns, coaching programs, and additional business development resources.

  • Funding opportunities vary based on your business profile and eligibility.

 

Opportunity Score

​

Category

Rating

πŸ’° Funding Potential

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🌎 Availability

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ Application Difficulty

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ˆ Business Impact

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⏳ Time Commitment

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

​

Overall Opportunity Score

9.9 / 10

 

Insight

​

This is one of the most valuable funding resources featured on JTB. Rather than applying for a single grant, entrepreneurs complete one free application that can connect them with multiple funding opportunities, including grants, crowdfunding, investors, coaching, and business support programs. If you're looking to maximize your funding opportunities with minimal effort, this should be one of the first applications you complete.

 

​

​​​

NASE Growth Grant

 

Award Amount

​

Up to $4,000

​

Application Deadline

​

Applications Accepted Year-Round (Reviewed Quarterly)

​

Category

​

Small Business Grants

​

Eligibility

​

Eligible applicants must:

  • Be a member in good standing of the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE)

  • Own or operate an eligible small business or be self-employed

  • Meet all membership requirements based on their NASE membership type

​

Description

​

The NASE Growth Grant helps small business owners invest in the future of their business by providing grants of up to $4,000 for growth-related expenses. Since 2006, the National Association for the Self-Employed has awarded nearly $1 million in grant funding to entrepreneurs across the United States. Grant funds may be used for marketing, advertising, website development, equipment, software, employee hiring, training, office improvements, and other business development initiatives that support long-term growth.

​

Grant Highlights

​

  • πŸ’° Awards up to $4,000

  • πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Available to eligible businesses nationwide

  • πŸ“… Applications accepted year-round

  • πŸ”„ Reviewed quarterly

  • πŸ“ˆ Designed to support business growth and expansion

  • πŸ’Ό Flexible funding for a variety of business expenses

​

Best For

​

  • Existing small businesses

  • Sole proprietors

  • Self-employed professionals

  • Entrepreneurs planning business expansion

  • Businesses investing in marketing, technology, or operational improvements

​

Eligible Uses

​

Grant funds may be used for:

  • Marketing and advertising

  • Website design or improvements

  • Computer equipment and software

  • Office furniture and equipment

  • Hiring part-time employees

  • Business training and certifications

  • Trade show or conference attendance

  • Business expansion projects

​

Required Documents

​

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Grant Use Statement

  • Business Plan

  • Recent Tax Return or Profit & Loss Statement (or projected financials for new businesses)

  • Photo of the business or owner

  • Optional supporting documentation

​

Important Notes

​

  • ⚠️ Active NASE membership is required before applying.

  • Grant funds cannot be used to pay existing debt, rent, or mortgage payments.

  • Grant recipients must document how the funds are used.

  • Grant awards may be considered taxable income. Applicants should consult a qualified tax professional regarding their specific tax situation.

 

Opportunity Score

​

Category

Rating

πŸ’° Funding Potential

β­β­β­β­β˜†

🌎 Availability

β­β­β­β­β˜†

πŸ“ Application Difficulty

β­β­β­β˜†β˜†

πŸ“ˆ Business Impact

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⏳ Time Commitment

β­β­β­β˜†β˜†

​

Overall Opportunity Score

​

8.9 / 10

Insight

The NASE Growth Grant is an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs who are already NASE member or who plan to take advantage of the organization's membership benefits. Although membership is required, the grant's flexible funding uses, year-round application period, and quarterly review process make it a valuable resource for businesses looking to invest in marketing, technology, equipment, or long-term growth initiatives.

 

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Awesome Foundation Grant

​

Award Amount

​

$1,000

​

Application Deadline

​

Rolling Applications

​

Category

​

Small Business Grants | Creative Grants | Community Grants | Startup Funding

​

Funding Type

​

Private Grant

​

Eligibility

​

Eligible applicants include:

  • Entrepreneurs

  • Startups

  • Nonprofit organizations

  • Artists

  • Educators

  • Community organizations

  • Individuals with innovative or community-focused project ideas

​

Description

​

The Awesome Foundation provides monthly grants to help bring innovative, creative, and community-driven ideas to life. Since 2009, the organization has funded projects around the world that inspire creativity, solve local challenges, strengthen communities, and encourage positive social impact. Grants are awarded with no strings attached, allowing recipients to maintain full ownership and control of their projects.

​

Grant Highlights

​

  • πŸ’° $1,000 unrestricted grant

  • πŸ“… Rolling applications accepted

  • 🌎 Chapters located around the world

  • πŸš€ Supports creative, innovative, and community-focused ideas

  • βœ… Recipients retain full ownership of their projects

  • πŸ“ Simple application process

​

Best For

​

  • Entrepreneurs

  • Startup founders

  • Artists and creators

  • Nonprofit organizations

  • Community leaders

  • Educators

  • Individuals with innovative project ideas

​

Required Documents

​

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

  • Project description

  • Funding request

  • Information about the applicant or organization

  • Additional information requested during the application process

​

Important Notes

​

  • Grant funds are unrestricted, meaning recipients decide how to use the funding for their approved project.

  • Applications are reviewed by local Awesome Foundation chapters.

  • Innovative ideas that create a positive impact within a community tend to be the strongest candidates.

 

Opportunity Score

​

Category

Rating

πŸ’° Funding Potential

β­β­β­β˜†β˜†

🌎 Availability

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ Application Difficulty

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ˆ Business Impact

β­β­β­β­β˜†

⏳ Time Commitment

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

​

Overall Opportunity Score

​

9.3 / 10

 

Insight

​

The Awesome Foundation Grant is one of the easiest funding opportunities to apply for and is ideal for entrepreneurs, nonprofits, artists, and community leaders with creative ideas. While the award amount is smaller than many business grants, the unrestricted funding and straightforward application process make it an excellent opportunity for launching a new idea, testing a project, or gaining early financial support.

 

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Walmart Spark Good Local Grants

 

Funding Amount

Varies by local Walmart or Sam's Club funding opportunity

 

Application Deadline

Varies

Applications and available grant opportunities are managed through the Walmart Spark Good nonprofit portal.

 

Category

Nonprofit Grants | Community Grants | Local Grants | Community Development Funding

 

Funding Type

Corporate Grant

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants generally include:

  • Eligible nonprofit organizations

  • Community-based organizations

  • Charitable organizations serving local communities

  • Organizations that successfully complete the required verification process

  • Organizations eligible to participate in Walmart Spark Good

Applicants must create a Walmart Spark Good account, add their organization, and complete the required organization and payment verification process.

 

Description

Walmart Spark Good is a community giving platform designed to connect eligible nonprofit organizations with Walmart customers, associates, local stores, and Sam's Club locations.

Through the Spark Good platform, participating organizations can access several charitable support programs, including local grant opportunities. Organizations may apply for grants available through participating Walmart and Sam's Club locations and may also receive support connected to Walmart associate volunteer activities.

Spark Good goes beyond traditional grant funding by giving nonprofits additional ways to raise money, collect needed supplies, increase community awareness, and engage local supporters.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Grant amounts vary

  • πŸͺ Opportunities available through local Walmart and Sam's Club locations

  • 🀝 Designed for nonprofit and community organizations

  • πŸ“ Strong local and community focus

  • πŸ’» Applications and organization management through the Spark Good portal

  • πŸ›’ Additional fundraising opportunities available through Round Up

  • 🎁 Organizations can create charitable registries

  • πŸ“£ Organizations can request space outside participating stores for fundraising and community awareness

  • πŸ™‹ Additional support may be available through Walmart associate volunteer activities

 

Best For

  • Nonprofit organizations

  • Community organizations

  • Local charitable programs

  • Youth and education programs

  • Organizations serving families and communities

  • Organizations seeking both funding and community fundraising opportunities

 

Required Documents

Organizations should be prepared to provide:

  • Organization information

  • Organization contact information

  • Information required to verify nonprofit eligibility

  • Payment information

  • Information requested during the Spark Good verification process

  • Grant-specific information requested for individual opportunities

Additional documentation may be required depending on the grant opportunity.

 

Application Fee

Free

 

Important Notes

  • Walmart Spark Good is designed primarily for eligible nonprofit and charitable organizations rather than traditional for-profit small businesses.

  • Organizations must establish a Spark Good account and complete the required verification process before participating in eligible programs.

  • Grant availability may depend on participating Walmart or Sam's Club locations.

  • Funding amounts, deadlines, eligibility requirements, and available opportunities may vary.

  • Spark Good also includes Round Up, charitable registries, the Space Request Tool, and associate-supported giving opportunities.

  • Entrepreneurs operating traditional for-profit businesses should not assume they are eligible simply because they are a small business.

 

Opportunity Score

CategoryRating

πŸ’° Funding Potential⭐⭐⭐⭐

🌎 Availability⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ Application Difficulty⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ˆ Community Impact⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⏳ Time Commitment⭐⭐⭐⭐

 

Overall Opportunity Score

9.1 / 10

 

Insight

Walmart Spark Good is a strong opportunity for eligible nonprofit and community organizations because it combines potential grant funding with several additional ways to generate support.

Rather than functioning as only a grant application, Spark Good provides participating organizations with access to local grant opportunities, customer Round Up donations, charitable registries, community fundraising space, and Walmart associate-supported giving.

For eligible nonprofits looking to build relationships and visibility within their local communities, Spark Good is well worth exploring.

Sky’s the Limit Startup Grants

 

Award Amount

​Up to $2,500

​

Application Deadline

Monthly Opportunities

​

Category

Startup Grants | Entrepreneur Grants | Small Business Funding

​

Funding Type

Private Grant

​

Status

Open – Monthly Grant Opportunities Available

​

Eligibility

Sky’s the Limit supports entrepreneurs, particularly founders from underrepresented communities who are working to start or grow businesses.

​Applicants must create a Sky’s the Limit member account to access available grant opportunities and submit their pitch.

​Because individual funding opportunities may have additional eligibility requirements, applicants should review the requirements for each grant before applying.

 

Description

​

Sky’s the Limit is a nonprofit organization that provides funding, mentorship, and business resources to entrepreneurs. Through support from its partners, the organization awards startup grants of up to $2,500 each month and provides registered members with access to additional funding opportunities.

​Entrepreneurs can create a free member profile, explore available opportunities, and submit a business pitch for grants for which they qualify. Sky’s the Limit reports that it has awarded more than $600,000 in startup grants since launching its grant program.

​In addition to funding opportunities, members can connect with business mentors and advisors and access educational resources, workshops, special events, and other tools designed to help entrepreneurs build and grow their businesses.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Grants of up to $2,500

  • πŸ“… Funding opportunities offered monthly

  • πŸš€ Designed to support entrepreneurs and startups

  • 🀝 Access to one-on-one business mentorship

  • πŸ“š Business tools, guides, and educational resources

  • 🎀 Access to workshops, events, and pitch competitions

  • πŸ’Ό Additional funding opportunities may be available to registered members

  • 🌎 Access to a global network of mentors and business advisors

Best For

Early-stage entrepreneurs and startup founders looking for smaller grants to help launch or grow their businesses, particularly entrepreneurs who would also benefit from mentorship, business education, and access to a supportive entrepreneurial network.

​

How to Apply

Create a free Sky’s the Limit member account, complete your profile, review the available funding opportunities, and submit your business pitch for grants for which you are eligible.

Applicants should carefully review the requirements and deadlines for each available funding opportunity before submitting an application.

​

Application Link

Visit the official Sky’s the Limit website to create an account and view current grant opportunities.

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Verizon Small Business Digital Ready $10,000 Grant

Sponsor: Verizon | Administrator: LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation)

 

Award Amount

$10,000

 

Application Deadline

CycleRolling monthly review, June – December 2026.

 

Apply once; your application is considered each month. Final decisions by January 12, 2027.

Geographic EligibilityUnited States, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands

 

Category

Small Business Grants | National | For-Profit Business | Digital Skills | Business Development

​

Funding Type

Corporate Grant

 

Status

Open

 

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for this grant, you must meet all of the following:

  • Have a free account on the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform

  • Complete the required resource prerequisite (see below) between January 1, 2026 and December 7, 2026

  • Be a for-profit business — nonprofits are not eligible

  • Have a primary business address in the United States, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands

  • Be 18 years of age or older

  • Be able to provide business and financial verification documentation (W-9, ACH banking information) if selected as a finalist

 

No minimum revenue requirement and no stated business-stage requirement have been identified for this program.

 

Prior grant recipients: If you received a Verizon Digital Ready grant in a previous cycle, you are still technically eligible to apply — but the program's official materials state that prior recipients are not likely to be awarded a second grant. Priority is given to first-time recipients.

 

Description

The Verizon Small Business Digital Ready $10,000 Grant is part of Verizon's ongoing commitment to help small businesses build the digital skills and tools they need to compete and grow. Administered independently by LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation) — a nationally respected nonprofit with decades of small business support experience — the program awards $10,000 grants to eligible small business owners throughout 2026.

​

Applications are reviewed monthly from June through December 2026. Each month, a group of small businesses is selected for grant awards. If your application is not selected in a given month, it remains under active consideration for the rest of the review cycle at no additional action required on your part. All applicants receive a final decision no later than January 12, 2027.

​

This grant has been running since 2021. LISC has awarded more than $15 million in grants to small businesses across the country through this partnership.

How to Unlock the Application — The Prerequisite Explained

This grant has a required prerequisite. The application is locked until you complete it.

Before you can access the grant application, you must:

Step 1 — Create a free account on the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform at digitalready.verizonwireless.com

Step 2 — Complete any 2 of the following between January 1, 2026 and December 7, 2026:

Qualifying ActivityDetails

Online courseAny course available on the Digital Ready platform

Virtual eventLive or recorded events listed on the platform

In-person eventMust be listed on the platform's In-Person Events page; you must scan the event's QR code onsite to receive credit

Once your two qualifying activities are completed, the grant application unlocks within your account. Registration is free. Most courses and events are short and self-paced.

Note on in-person events: Only events listed on the official Digital Ready In-Person Events page qualify. QR code scanning at the event is required — no scan, no credit.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° $10,000 cash award — no repayment, no equity given up

  • πŸ”„ Rolling monthly consideration — one application, reviewed every month through December 2026

  • πŸ›οΈ Administered by LISC — an established, credible national grant administrator

  • 🌎 Nationally available — open to all 50 states plus Puerto Rico and USVI

  • πŸ†“ Free to enter — no application fee, no platform subscription cost

  • πŸ“‹ Short application — estimated 30 minutes to complete

  • πŸ• Final decisions by January 12, 2027

  • πŸ“… Program history — active since 2021; $15M+ awarded to small businesses through this partnership

 

Best For

This grant is a strong fit for:

  • For-profit small business owners anywhere in the U.S. who are willing to complete two free online courses or events as a prerequisite

  • Entrepreneurs looking for a legitimate, no-fee national grant from a credible corporate sponsor

  • Business owners who have not previously received a Verizon Digital Ready grant (priority applicants)

  • Small businesses at any stage — no revenue minimum has been identified

 

This grant is not a fit for:

  • Nonprofit organizations (explicitly ineligible)

  • Business owners who are unwilling or unable to complete the prerequisite courses/events before December 7, 2026

  • Prior Digital Ready grant recipients (still eligible but deprioritized)

 

Application Requirements

According to official program guidance, the application is designed to be accessible and concise. Before you begin:

  • Use Google Chrome browser for best results

  • Set aside approximately 30 uninterrupted minutes

  • Review your responses carefully before submitting — changes cannot be made after submission

  • Have your business information ready

  • Know that if selected as a finalist, you will be required to provide W-9 and ACH banking documentation for grant disbursement

 

Application Fee

None. There is no fee to create a Digital Ready account, complete the prerequisite courses or events, or submit a grant application.

 

Important Notes

⚠️ Read before you apply.

  1. The application is locked until prerequisites are done. You cannot access or submit the grant application without first completing two qualifying courses or events on the Digital Ready platform. Do this first.

  2. Prerequisite deadline is December 7, 2026. Your qualifying activities must be completed between January 1 and December 7, 2026. Do not wait.

  3. Applications cannot be changed after submission. LISC does not accept edits or corrections once your application is submitted. Review everything carefully before you hit submit.

  4. Highly competitive — national program. This grant is open to small businesses across the entire country. Competition is significant. A strong, complete application matters.

  5. No changes needed each month. You do not need to reapply or update your application each month. One submission is considered throughout the entire June–December 2026 review window.

  6. In-person event QR code required. If you attend an in-person event for prerequisite credit, you must scan the QR code at the event. There is no alternative way to claim credit for in-person attendance.

  7. Use the correct link. Navigate directly to the funding details page (see Apply Now below). Other Verizon Digital Ready pages may display outdated or cycle-specific messaging that does not reflect the current open application cycle.

 

Opportunity Score

CategoryRating

πŸ’° Funding Potential⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🌎 Availability⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

πŸ“ Application Difficultyβ­β­β­β­β˜†

πŸ“ˆ Community Impact⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

⏳ Time Commitmentβ­β­β­β­β˜†

​

Overall Opportunity Score

9.2/10

 

Insight

The Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant is one of the more accessible $10,000 opportunities available nationally — no fees, no revenue floor, and a rolling review window that gives applicants multiple chances to be selected with a single submission.

 

The prerequisite (two free courses or events) is a low barrier that actually serves applicants well: the Digital Ready platform offers genuinely useful business education. The grant is administered by LISC, a trusted institution with a long track record, which adds meaningful legitimacy.

 

The main caution is competition — this is a widely publicized national program, and the applicant pool is large. Completing the prerequisites early, submitting a thorough application, and using the correct application link (not the general /grants landing page) are the three most important steps for any applicant.

 

 

The Wawa Foundation 

 

Award Amount

Local Connection Grants: Less than $2,500

Foundation Grants: More than $2,500

 

The Wawa Foundation offers different levels of financial support depending on the organization and request. Larger grants are considered during designated grant cycles, while Local Connection Grants of less than $2,500 are considered on an ongoing basis while budgeted funds remain available.

​

Wawa has indicated that grants within its key areas of focus may generally range from approximately $1,000 to $20,000, although award amounts vary by program and request.

 

Application Deadline

Next Grant Window for Requests Over $2,500: October 2026

 

The Wawa Foundation accepts grant requests over $2,500 and Letters of Inquiry during four designated months each year:

  • January

  • April

  • July

  • October

Organizations submitting during a grant cycle should receive a response before the next submission window opens.

 

Local Connection Grants under $2,500: Ongoing while annual budgeted funds remain available.

Because Local Connection funding can close once available funds have been exhausted, eligible organizations may benefit from applying earlier in the year rather than waiting.

 

Category

Nonprofit Grants
Community Grants
Health Grants
Hunger Relief Grants
Everyday Heroes Grants
Local Community Support
Youth & Family Support

 

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must:

  • Be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

  • Operate within an area where Wawa does business

  • Submit a request that aligns with The Wawa Foundation’s funding priorities

  • Fall within one or more of Wawa’s three primary focus areas: Health, Hunger, and Everyday Heroes

  • Meet the requirements of the specific financial-grant program for which they are applying

Organizations should review The Wawa Foundation’s current Criteria for Success before submitting a request.

 

Geographic Requirements

Applicants must operate within Wawa’s areas of operation.

Wawa operates stores across several states, including Florida, making this opportunity particularly relevant to qualifying Florida nonprofit organizations located in communities served by Wawa.

Applicants should confirm that their organization and service area meet Wawa’s current geographic requirements before submitting an inquiry or application.

 

Description

The Wawa Foundation provides financial support to eligible nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities served by Wawa.

​

Its charitable giving is concentrated in three key areas:

Health — Programs and organizations addressing health-related needs and improving the well-being of individuals and communities.

Hunger — Programs working to address food insecurity, hunger, and access to nutritious food.

Everyday Heroes — Organizations and initiatives supporting individuals who serve and strengthen their communities.

The Foundation provides financial grants at the local, regional, and national levels.

 

For requests over $2,500, organizations may submit grant requests and Letters of Inquiry during Wawa’s designated January, April, July, and October grant cycles.

 

For requests under $2,500, Wawa offers Local Connection Grants. These inquiries are considered on an ongoing basis while budgeted funds remain available.

 

Wawa also provides separate in-kind community support through Wawa Community Care.

 

Grant Highlights

  • πŸ’° Financial grants available to qualifying nonprofits

  • πŸ’΅ Local Connection Grants are less than $2,500

  • πŸ“ˆ Larger grant requests are considered during quarterly submission windows

  • ❀️ Focus on Health

  • 🍎 Focus on Hunger

  • 🦸 Focus on Everyday Heroes

  • 🏒 Applicants must have registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit status

  • πŸ“ Organization must operate within a Wawa service area

  • 🌴 Eligible organizations in Wawa communities in Florida may apply

  • πŸ”„ Local Connection Grant inquiries are accepted on an ongoing basis while funds remain

  • πŸ“… Larger grant cycles occur in January, April, July, and October

  • 🎁 Separate in-kind support is available through Wawa Community Care

 

Best For

  • 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations

  • Food banks and food-access programs

  • Hunger-relief organizations

  • Community health initiatives

  • Organizations serving children and families

  • Programs supporting community heroes

  • Local community-service organizations

  • Nonprofits operating in communities with Wawa locations

  • Florida nonprofits located within Wawa operating areas

  • Smaller nonprofits seeking grants below $2,500

  • Established nonprofits seeking larger foundation support

 

Required Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide information regarding:

  • Current 501(c)(3) nonprofit status

  • Organization name, mission, and background

  • Program or initiative requesting support

  • Population or community served

  • Alignment with Health, Hunger, or Everyday Heroes

  • Amount of funding requested

  • Proposed use of grant funds

  • Organization’s geographic relationship to Wawa’s operating area

  • Additional organizational, program, or financial information requested during the application process

 

For larger grants, an organization may first submit a Letter of Inquiry. If the inquiry is approved, The Wawa Foundation may request additional information before making a funding decision.

Applicants should review the current application and Criteria for Success for complete requirements.

 

Application Fee

No application fee is stated in the provided grant information.

Applicants should confirm current requirements through The Wawa Foundation’s official submission system before applying.

Ineligible or Restricted Requests

Applicants that are not registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations are not eligible for The Wawa Foundation’s financial grants.

​

Organizations outside Wawa’s operating areas are also not eligible.

​

Requests that do not align with the Foundation’s three key areas — Health, Hunger, and Everyday Heroes — may not qualify for consideration.

​

Applicants should review Wawa’s current Criteria for Success for additional exclusions and restrictions before submitting an application.

​

In-Kind Support

In addition to financial grants, Wawa Community Care provides in-kind support to qualifying community and youth organizations.

​

Available support may include:

  • Wawa soft pretzels

  • Wawa-branded water

  • Wawa gift baskets

  • Free hot beverage coupons for eligible fundraising events

 

Product donations must be picked up from a local Wawa store and may not be resold.

Organizations requesting in-kind support should submit their request at least three weeks before the event date.

​

Each organization is generally eligible for one in-kind donation per calendar year, and support is subject to available store, area, or regional budgets.

​

Important Notes

  • Applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.

  • This grant is not intended for for-profit small businesses or individual entrepreneurs

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