We have curated a list of grant and funding opportunities for small businesses and nonprofits to apply for. Please note the links will be sent to the grantor’s website. We cannot guarantee the awards of the funds once applied.

• Verizon Small Business Digital Ready – Small businesses that complete the application, and are registered in a local zip code, will be eligible for consideration to receive a $10,000 grant! From February 26, 2024, through April 8, 2024, small businesses in the Greater Houston area will have the opportunity to unlock the application for this round of the grant funding. Deadline Apr 8
  
• American SEED FUND – We focus on transforming scientific and engineering discoveries into products and services with commercial and societal impact. The deep technologies we fund show promise but their success hasn’t yet been validated. And, each year, we award $200+ million in research and development (R&D) funding to about 400 startups across the United States. America’s Seed Fund is a program within the National Science Foundation and housed within the Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships.
  
• US Department of Labor (Apprenticeship Building America (ABA) Grant Program) – Part of President Biden’s ongoing strategy to strengthen Registered Apprenticeships, the department’s “Apprenticeship Building America” program will make $113 million in grant funding available, including up to $50 million to support equity partnerships and pre-apprenticeship activities to increase enrollment in Registered Apprenticeship Programs. The grants will further the Biden-Harris administration’s goals and priorities for a strong and equitable post-pandemic economic recovery by connecting Americans to good quality jobs in priority industry sectors, including critical supply chain industries and among populations disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Deadline Apr 25

The following grants are found on the US Chamber Website:

• ‌The Comcast Innovation Fund provides grants to support technology and research “for the betterment of the Internet.” Areas of interest for the 2024 grant year include open-source development, general and targeted research, and work that enhances the growth of the Internet. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all funds for 2024 are disbursed.
  
• ‌The FedEx Small Business Grant is set to award over $230,000 in grants and services to 10 U.S.-based small businesses. One grand prize winner will receive $50,000 and nine additional recipients will be granted $20,000 — along with various perks, including print credit, consultation services, and more. Applications open March 1 and close April 1.
  
• 500 Global Flagship Accelerator Program. Startups and small businesses seeking funding can do so on a rolling, year-round basis with the 500 Global Flagship Accelerator program. Since 2010, this program has offered businesses the opportunity for a four-month accelerator program based in San Francisco in addition to a $150,000 investment. Rules for applying can be found on the company’s website.
  
• The American Dream Awards. The American Dream Awards, presented by Hello Alice, recognize small businesses across the U.S. that embody the spirit of innovation, make significant contributions to their communities, and adhere to sustainable business practices. The awards offer grants from $1,000, along with additional benefits like an accelerator program and media exposure. Eligibility extends to all for-profit U.S.-based businesses, limited to one award per individual and business; candidates can apply for multiple categories. Applications are due by April 30, 2024.
  
• Fast Break for Small Business. The Fast Break for Small Business grant program, in collaboration with the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League, offers small business owners and entrepreneurs the chance to win a $10,000 grant and/or up to $500 in LegalZoom products and services. Awarding a monumental $3 million in total grants and services, the initiative, currently in its third run, has already aided over 3,150 small businesses. The application window closes on September 13, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. ET.
  
• GoFundMe Small Business Relief Fund. GoFundMe’s Small Business Relief Fund will match $500 grants to qualifying small businesses that have been negatively impacted by COVID-19 and raise at least $500 through a GoFundMe campaign. The fund is backed by GoFundMe and corporations like Intuit QuickBooks, Yelp, GoDaddy, and Bill.com. Small business owners with existing campaigns can add the hashtag #SmallBusinessRelief to their campaign and fill out this form to confirm their business.
  
• Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF). The Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) offers “deal-closing” grants to companies competing with out-of-state sites for new projects in Texas. These grants are based on performance, encouraging significant capital investment and job creation. Eligible companies must meet criteria related to job creation, capital investment, financial stability, and local support. Once approved, grantees sign contracts committing to job and wage targets, with clawback provisions in case of non-compliance. The application process includes a thorough screening, and unanimous support from top state officials is required for approval.
  
• U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Business Programs. The USDA’s Rural Development Business Programs provide financial support and technical assistance to promote rural business growth. They offer loans, grants, and guarantees with the goal of enhancing economic opportunities and job creation in rural communities; deadlines and eligibility requirements vary by program.
  
• U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA). Targeted grants and loans designed to aid minority-owned businesses are offered throughout the year. Minority-owned businesses can find information about local MBDA Business Centers at MBDA.gov.
  
• Walmart Spark Good Local Grants. Organizations can apply for the Walmart Spark Good Local Grants program provided by Walmart and Sam’s Club, which offers grants ranging from $250 to $5,000 to address the unique needs of local communities. Tax ID status determines eligibility, with 501(c)(3) charities, public entities, and educational institutions qualifying. Grant applications are accepted quarterly, with Q1 submissions being accepted through April 15; all organizations must be Deed verified and have a Spark Good account to apply.
  
• Cartier Women’s Initiative. The Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards, initiated by Cartier in 2006, empower women impact entrepreneurs worldwide in various sectors, focusing on social and environmental sustainability. The program offers three award categories: regional, diversity, equity and inclusion, and science and technology pioneer. Winners receive financial support, coaching, and peer learning opportunities, with the diversity, equity and inclusion category open to all genders. Applications aren’t open yet, but aspiring entrepreneurs can prepare for the 2024 awards, which will feature 13 categories supporting 39 impact entrepreneurs globally.
  
• Etsy Emergency Relief Fund. If you’re an Etsy business owner, you may be qualified to apply for relief funding courtesy of a partnership with CERF+, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping artists prepare for and recover from emergencies and disasters. The partnership was established in 2017, and both companies continue to provide up to $2,500 in funding through the grant program. To apply, you must have been a registered Etsy business for at least one year and have been affected by a natural disaster. This grant opportunity is rolling.
  
• Patagonia Corporate Grant Program. Patagonia’s corporate grant program offers between $10,000 and $20,000 of funding to nonprofits with missions to protect and preserve the environment. If you meet the grant requirements, you can apply today.

‌More grant & program information can be found on the US Chamber’s Website.

The following grants are found on the National ACE Website:

• $10,000 Backing Small Businesses Grant – National ACE is excited to work with American Express and Main Street America to support the Backing Small Businesses grant program. This year, Backing Small Businesses will provide 500 small business grants of $10,000 to eligible small businesses in the U.S. and U.S. territories. Grantees who receive the initial $10,000 grant will be eligible to apply for an Enhancement Grant of an additional $30,000 later in the year. Deadline Apr 7
  
• Fast Break for Small Business – We’ve partnered with the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League to offer $3 million in grant funding and services to small business owners and emerging entrepreneurs. Now in its third season, Fast Break for Small Business is the largest grant program for small business owners. Apply today for your chance at a $10,000 small business grant and/or up to $500 in LegalZoom products. Deadline Sept 13
  
• Gusto – COVID-19 Small Business Relief Finder – Find financial relief to get your business through COVID-19. We’ve sorted through federal, state, and private resources to help you find loans, credits, and grants for your small business. Use our table to find relief options and apply now.

‌More grant & program information can be found on National ACE’s Website.

Previous Grants that have expired

• Texas State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) (Open Now Until Feb 29) – The program’s objectives are to increase the number of small businesses that are exporting, and to increase the value of exports for those small businesses that are currently exporting. The STEP program will provide financial assistance to small business to create or expand their export capacity. Deadline Feb 29
  
• Barclay Small Business Big Wins Contest – Small business ownership can be rewarding, challenging, liberating — a meaningful way to live out your dreams or play an important role in your community. What’s your small business story? Explain how your business is adjusting to the current economy. Demonstrate your perseverance, creativity and passion for your business. How do your business products or services impact others and/or the community? Winning stories will receive one of 60 cash prizes (not a grant) starting at $2,000, with a Grand Prize of $60,000. Deadline March 4th
  
• The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge presents an exciting opportunity for small business owners, offering a grand prize including a cash award from the $35,000 prize pool, a trip to Miami, Florida, and a spotlight in Inc. magazine. Applications are due on March 8
  
• The Amber Grant – The grant was set up with one goal in mind: to honor the memory of a very special young woman, Amber Wigdahl, who died at just 19 years old — before realizing her business dreams. Today, WomensNet carries on that tradition, proudly giving away at least $30,000 every month in Amber Grant money. In recognition of the diversity of businesses owned by women, we’ve also expanded our grant-giving to include “Startup Grants,” “Business Category Grants,” as well as two “$25,000 Year End Grants.” Deadline Mar 31
  
• ‌The Skip AI Innovation Grant will award $10,000 to fund the development of artificial intelligence-based innovation in business. The grant is open to all U.S.-based small business owners and entrepreneurs in all stages and sizes of business. Applications are due March 15.
  
• ‌The Skip $10k Perseverance Grant celebrates the grit and determination of small business owners. Entrepreneurs and small business owners at all stages of business are encouraged to apply. The deadline to apply is March 31.