Keep in mind that not all assistance flows directly from the federal government to small businesses. Some funds are distributed to state and local governments and agencies, nonprofits, and institutions of higher learning. These entities in turn distribute the funds or use them to provide technical or educational assistance on a local level. Programs like Save on Energy offer funding to businesses implementing energy-saving projects, helping them reduce utility costs and improve environmental sustainability. Ontario's vibrant tech ecosystem benefits from targeted support programs like the Ontario Interactive Digital Media Tax Credit, which offers a refundable tax credit for companies developing interactive digital media products.

Diverse Project Categories and Funding Options

Merchant cash advances offer businesses a one-time payment for a share of their future sales. Though it provides quick access to funds, this option often involves higher costs than conventional loans. Utilizing these resources enables businesses to efficiently identify grants for startups expansion and ensure they are not missing out on critical financial support. Made for businesses at every stage of growth, Shopify Finance provides innovative tools to help manage cash flow, access funds faster, and simplify financial tasks. Organizations that issue small business grants typically favor for-profit businesses that they see as innovative, forward-thinking, and on a path to growth. Focus your pitch on how you plan to scale, any new technologies you might be developing, and what your business can do to help the organization with its mission.

A well-defined business profile aligned with the grant's requirements can enhance the chances of a successful application. Approved entrepreneurs who share their business plan through the Vetpreneur program will receive invitations to pitch for funding opportunities. Grants.gov is a centralized database where entrepreneurs can find and apply for federal small business grants. The site is a one stop shop for grant opportunities from various federal agencies, like the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the US Department of Commerce. While competition for these types of grants for small businesses can be high, the key to success lies in preparation and strategy.

Funding business expansion

These factors can create significant barriers for businesses looking to secure global market grants and may deter them from applying altogether. Unlike a loan, grant issuers provide money to entrepreneurs who want to start or grow their business. The biggest benefit of capital investors is that they can provide you with large sums of money in a relatively short amount of time. At times, they can also provide valuable mentorship as you work to grow your own business.

STTR's most important role is to foster the innovation necessary to meet the nation's scientific and technological challenges in the 21st century. This database lists thousands of federal, state, and local grants, with new opportunities updated regularly. You can search for grants by industry, location, or specific business needs, but still confirm you’re eligible before applying. Federal grants offer some of the most funding for small businesses, but they come with a more structured and competitive application process than private grants. This includes more required documentation, reporting, and regulatory oversight to ensure you spend the money as intended.

• These programs typically fund initiatives to create new jobs, recover from disasters, or improve physical infrastructure, among others that boost economic development.
• As entrepreneurs continue to navigate this dynamic environment, they must remain agile and open-minded, ready to seize opportunities that arise on the global stage.
• With many businesses vying for the same pool of international business funding, it can be difficult to stand out.
• A good source of information on business expansion grants – state and federal – is the Small Business Development Center.
• Small businesses, particularly those in the agri-food industry, receive substantial support from the Canadian government, acknowledging their vital role in the economy and their unique challenges.

Customized Export Development Training Program

Implementing robust financial controls is essential for tracking and reporting expenditures accurately. This not only ensures compliance with grant requirements but also enhances the credibility of your business in the eyes of grantors. These grants often have specific requirements or focus areas, so it’s essential to carefully read the eligibility criteria for each foundation. Websites like the Foundation Center can help businesses identify relevant private grants. The SBA provides several grant options, including the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program, which focus on research and development. The USDA offers grants aimed at rural development and agricultural businesses, such as the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG).

The Small Business Administration (SBA) created STEP in 2011 to help more businesses expand into international markets. While this is a federal program, you’ll need to apply for funding through your state or territory government. Founded by WomensNet in 1998, the Amber Grant program awards thousands of dollars to woman-owned businesses each month. Plus, you can apply for multiple grant opportunities with just one application, including monthly grants, industry-specific grants, and end-of-year awards.

Small Business Grants for 2025

Despite its benefits, crowdfunding carries risks, such as failing to reach funding targets or facing backlash from backers if the project doesn’t meet expectations. Businesses must carefully plan their campaigns and manage post-funding expectations. Investors searching for companies with substantial growth prospects prioritise scalable business models and competent leadership teams. They’re particularly interested in companies that operate in innovative industries or have a unique market advantage.

Crowdfunding has become one of the most popular methods of raising money for startup businesses, largely due to online crowdfunding sites that make it accessible to nearly anyone. Operated by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and SHOWTIME, the Queer to Stay initiative issues grants to at least 30 businesses each year with LGBTQ+ founders. The Military Entrepreneur Challenge, run by the Second Service Foundation, awards capital grants to eligible applicants based on positive social and community impact. To apply, you’ll need to register for one of its events, create a one-pager about your business, and give a two-minute pitch at the event. The BOSS Impact Fund focuses on financially elevating Black women entrepreneurs with $10,000 Invest In Progress grants. The program, a partnership between Hello Alice and The BOSS Network, also provides mentorship opportunities.

Over one-third (32.8%) of small business respondents cited “lack of capital” as the primary reason for business closure. Engaging with grant writing professionals or consultants can also be beneficial in refining proposals and ensuring they meet the necessary standards. The maximum Business Expansion Grant payable shall be 50% of the investment or €150,000 whichever is the lesser. Official websites use .govA .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

If you're not sure of the difference between a loan and a grant, check out our explainer. You can also learn more about all funding options in our small business financing guide. Understand the different funding programs and find the best options for your business. The Canada-Ontario Job Grant provides direct financial support to employers who wish to purchase training for their workforce, covering up to two-thirds of training costs to a maximum of $10,000 per employee.

Submit Applications for Fast Track to the EIC Accelerator Programme

Starting or growing a business can be financially challenging, but the Irish government offers invaluable support to entrepreneurs through small business grants. These grants provide funding for various business needs, including startup costs, expansion, innovation, and sustainability without the burden of repayment. Whether you’re launching a new venture or looking to scale your existing business, accessing the right grants can make a significant difference. Many governments offer grants business expansion grants and funding programs specifically designed to support business growth.

• Business expansion grants that produce new, sustainable jobs are very well received by the entire grant funding community at this time.
• The official acknowledgement is not an indication that the application is eligible or will be awarded grant aid.
• This grant is for Etsy sellers who have been affected by a federally declared disaster.
• Although the SBA has grown and evolved in the years since it was established, the bottom line mission remains the same.

Retained earnings provide a steady and reliable funding source, allowing businesses to expand without external obligations. This approach works well for companies with consistent cash flow and a proven growth strategy. To attract VC investment, businesses must present a compelling pitch highlighting their growth strategy, market opportunity, and financial projections. Building solid relationships with potential investors is also crucial for success.