How to Get a Small Business Grant (Step-by-Step Guide)

 

A four-panel cartoon strip showing a young entrepreneur’s journey to securing a small business grant: Panel 1: A young man sits at his desk looking worried while staring at his laptop. He says, “I need funding to grow my business!” Panel 2: The same man looks excited as he reads something on his laptop. He exclaims, “Free money? No repayment? This is perfect!” Panel 3: It's nighttime. The man is focused and working hard at his desk, surrounded by documents labeled “Proposal” and a coffee cup nearby. Panel 4: The man holds up a large sign that says “BUSINESS GRANT APPROVED!” with colorful confetti raining down. He’s smiling joyfully.

How to Get a Small Business Grant (Step-by-Step Guide)

Starting or growing a small business can be expensive, but small business grants can help ease the burden.

Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment, making them a highly sought-after form of funding.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to find, apply for, and win a small business grant in 2025.

Table of Contents

What is a Small Business Grant?

A small business grant is a sum of money awarded to entrepreneurs and small business owners that does not need to be repaid.

Grants are typically provided by government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private corporations to support economic development, innovation, and job creation.

They’re often targeted to specific groups such as women, minorities, or veteran-owned businesses.

Where to Find Small Business Grants

Grants.gov

This is the go-to database for federal grant opportunities in the United States.

Thousands of grants are listed and categorized by industry, eligibility, and more.

SBA (Small Business Administration)

While the SBA doesn’t directly offer many grants, it does provide guidance and resources for finding them.

Some SBA partners and programs include grant components for eligible small businesses.

Private & Nonprofit Grants

Organizations like FedEx, the Amber Grant Foundation, and Hello Alice provide grants for small businesses.

These tend to be competitive but often have simpler applications than federal grants.

How to Apply for a Grant

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Read the fine print on any grant opportunity before applying.

Each grant will outline who can apply based on factors like industry, location, business size, and ownership demographics.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

You’ll usually need a business plan, financial statements, and identification details about your business and team.

Having these ready in advance can speed up the process when deadlines are tight.

Step 3: Write a Strong Grant Proposal

Your proposal should clearly explain how the funds will help your business and community.

Use real data, show your impact, and align with the grantor’s mission.

Step 4: Apply Online

Submit your application through the organization’s website or the designated platform.

Always double-check requirements before hitting “submit.”

Tips to Increase Your Chances

Start small with local and niche grants where competition is lower.

Keep a calendar of deadlines so you don’t miss opportunities.

Tailor each proposal to the specific grant’s goals.

And don’t get discouraged—many winners apply multiple times before getting a yes.

Conclusion

Getting a small business grant in 2025 is possible with the right strategy, persistence, and preparation.

Focus on eligibility, craft compelling proposals, and take advantage of available resources.

With these steps, you can secure funding to launch, grow, or reinvent your business.

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