The 2025 Small Business Grants Directory

No, small business grants are free funding that never requires repayment, unlike loans.

However, some grant programs charge application fees (typically $15-30) or require paid memberships to apply—our directory notes these costs so there are no surprises.

Grants also typically come with specific requirements about how funds must be used and may require you to submit proof of spending and impact reports.

Some grants have performance milestones you'll need to meet to receive the full funding amount.

Small business grant competition varies significantly by program.

Federal grants like SBIR can receive hundreds of applications for limited spots, while monthly micro-grants may have better odds.

Corporate grants typically receive thousands of applications—for example, some programs attract 3,000+ applicants for 10-15 awards.

The key to success is applying to multiple grants with complete, professional documentation rather than relying on a single application.

Grants provide free funding that doesn't require repayment, while loans typically must be paid back with interest over time.

Grants are typically more competitive and have stricter eligibility requirements, often requiring detailed business plans and specific use cases.

Loans are generally more accessible but create debt obligations.

Many successful business owners use a combination of both to fund their growth. Explore all funding options for small businesses.

Grant approval timelines vary widely depending on the program.

Monthly micro-grants may notify winners within 2-4 weeks, while federal grants like SBIR can take 3-6 months or longer for review and approval.

Corporate or private grants typically announce winners 1-3 months after application deadlines.

Plan ahead by tracking grant cycles and deadlines—our directory includes timeline information to help you plan your application strategy and we're working on an application schedule and tracker - coming soon!

It depends on the grant program. Some grants specifically target startups and early-stage businesses (even those still in the idea phase), while others require you to be operational for 1-3 years with established revenue.

Federal SBIR programs accept very early-stage companies with strong research potential, while many corporate grants require proof of operations.

Our directory clearly indicates which grants accept startups versus established businesses.

Most grant applications require similar core documentation: a business plan (required by 65%+ of grants), financial statements or projections (80% of grants), legal documents like your EIN and business registration (90% of grants), and grant-specific essays explaining your funding needs and impact.

Tax returns, bank statements, and demographic certifications may also be required depending on the grant.

Our directory includes a complete document preparation checklist so you can gather everything before you start applying. For detailed guidance on creating a business plan that wins funding, check out our guide on how to write a business plan for funding.

Yes! There are numerous grants specifically for women-owned businesses, often with less competition than general small business grants. These include programs like the Amber Grant ($10,000 monthly), Cartier Women's Initiative ($100,000), and various corporate initiatives.

To qualify, most require 51% or greater women ownership.

Our directory includes a dedicated section listing demographic-specific grants for women, veterans, minorities, and LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs.

Google Ad Grants (also called Google for Nonprofits Ad Grants) provides eligible nonprofit organizations with $10,000 per month in free advertising credit on Google Search.

While this program is specifically for 501(c)(3) nonprofits rather than traditional for-profit small businesses, it's one of the most valuable ongoing grant opportunities available.

If your business operates as a nonprofit or you're considering nonprofit status, Google Ad Grants can provide up to $120,000 per year in marketing support to help you reach donors, volunteers, and program participants.

Organizations must maintain an active Google for Nonprofits account and follow program policies to remain eligible.