May 02, 2025

Top Small Business Grants & Funding Opportunities in the U.S.

Running a small business requires more than passion—it takes capital. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale, securing non-dilutive funding (money you don’t have to pay back or give equity for) can be a game-changer.

To help you navigate the financial landscape, we’ve compiled a list of top small business grants and funding programs available in the U.S. These opportunities can help cover essential expenses, fund growth, and support innovation.

Grants.gov

Overview: The go-to portal for federal grant applications from various government agencies.
Eligibility: Varies widely by grant—many are aimed at nonprofits, educational institutions, and R&D-focused businesses.
Link: grants.gov

Hello Alice Small Business Grants

Overview: Offers a wide range of grants, often aimed at underrepresented groups including women, minority, and veteran entrepreneurs.
Eligibility: Varies by individual grant; typically for U.S.-based small businesses.
Link: helloalice.com/grants

IFundWomen Grants

Overview: Focuses on women-owned businesses, offering not only grants but also coaching and networking opportunities.
Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs; specific requirements depend on each grant opportunity.
Link: ifundwomen.com

SBA Funding Programs

Overview: While the Small Business Administration (SBA) doesn’t often provide direct grants to start or grow a business, it offers loan programs, venture capital partnerships, and disaster relief funding.
Eligibility: Depends on the program; many cater to nonprofits, educational entities, or businesses affected by disaster.
Link: sba.gov/funding-programs

Amazon Business Small Business Grants

Overview: Created to support U.S. small businesses with funding, resources, and tools to grow within the Amazon ecosystem and beyond.
Eligibility: U.S.-based small businesses; application criteria vary.
Link: Amazon Business Small Business Grants

Start.Pivot.Grow. Micro Grant

Overview: Offers $2,500 in non-dilutive funding to help cover rent, inventory, marketing, or operational expenses.
Eligibility: U.S.-based, for-profit businesses with:

At least two years of operation
Annual revenue of $50,000 or more
No more than two employees (including the owner)

Link: U.S. Chamber of Commerce – Start.Pivot.Grow.

Backing Small Businesses Grant Program by American Express

Overview: Designed to help small businesses that are locally significant and experiencing economic challenges.
Eligibility: U.S.-based small businesses that meet certain criteria.
Link: Backing Small Businesses by Amex

GrantWatch

Overview: A subscription-based platform listing thousands of current U.S. grant opportunities, including those for small businesses, nonprofits, and individuals.
Eligibility: Varies by listing; access to details requires a subscription.
Link: grantwatch.com

Grants can be an incredible tool to fuel your growth without adding debt or sacrificing equity. While competition can be steep, a well-prepared application tailored to each opportunity increases your chances of success. Bookmark these resources, stay alert for deadlines, and keep refining your pitch.

You’ve already done the hard part by building your business—now go get the funding to take it to the next level.