Essential Small Business Grants Worth Knowing Before You Start Your Venture

Many small businesses qualify for free grant funding that carries no repayment obligation. Aspiring founders have plenty of options for financing a new venture, including federal, state, and local government grants, as well as traditional banks, investors, and other organizations.

Grants can supply the startup capital needed to get a business moving, and because they are not loans, they never have to be paid back. To see which ones a business might qualify for, grant.gov is a good starting point. The database lets users search and apply for thousands of federal funding opportunities. The programs below are a sample of what is available.

Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Grants

RISE was designed to help rural businesses that draw on local assets in low-income areas, generate high-wage rural jobs, and back the launch of new business ventures. Applicants must be located in a low-income rural area that encourages collaboration among partners. Awards range from a minimum of $500,000 to a maximum of $2,000,000, and the grant runs for a 4-year term.

SBIR Program

The SBIR program exists to spur technological innovation and promote research in the private sector. It is run by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), whose mission is to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

Through the Administration for Community Living (ACL), ten grants worth up to $1,000,0000 are distributed. Details and eligibility information are available on the ACL's official website.

500 Global Flagship Accelerator Program

The 500 Global Flagship Accelerator Program gives San Francisco start-ups access to funding throughout the year. It began in 2010 as a four-month accelerator for Silicon Valley start-ups and was later extended to San Francisco on a rolling basis. Eligible founders can receive investments of up to $150,000, along with mentorship and support for growing and scaling their companies.

Small Business Technology Transfer Program

The Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) dates to 1992. It was created to close the gap between scientific work and the commercialization of inventions and innovations. It also boosts funding for businesses and non-profit research organizations to encourage research and development.

To receive an award, applicants must partner with non-profit research institutions and operate a profitable business with 500 employees or fewer.

Amber Grant Foundation

The Amber Grand Foundation was set up in 1998 in memory of Amber Wigdahi, a 19-year-old woman who hoped to become an entrepreneur and launch her own business. Eligible businesswomen can receive up to $10,000 in capital each month, plus a $25,000 bonus every December.

Patagonia Corporate Grant Program

This program works with grassroots organizations and small businesses dedicated to preserving and protecting the environment. Funding falls between $10,000 and $20,000 and goes to eligible companies running active, eco-friendly campaigns. To check whether a business qualifies, go to

Inclusive Backing from American Express

Inclusive Backing From American Express offers small businesses financial support of up to $5,000. A business must have a traditional brick-and-mortar location and cannot operate entirely online. Application details can be found on the American Express website.

Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant

Women-owned, women-led businesses may qualify for the Eileen Fisher business grant. Applicants need to own at least 51% of their company and must have been operating for at least three years. Eligible companies also focus on creating a positive social and environmental impact.

Veteran Small Business Award

The StreetShares Foundation runs a small business grant program that gives veterans and their spouses up to $15,000 for their businesses. Applicants must own at least 50% of the company to qualify. The program was built to educate and support small businesses as they grow.

Start Searching for Small Business Grants

Help is available for current small business owners and anyone dreaming of starting one. Government agencies and private organizations alike offer grant programs and support for establishing and scaling a business. An online search for small business grants is a quick way to find out which ones apply.