Top 10 Grants for Small Businesses and Startups in 2024

Introduction: Why Small Businesses Need Grants
Running a small business comes with challenges—especially when it comes to funding. While business loans are an option, grants provide free money without the need for repayment. In 2024, there are more grant opportunities than ever, and we’ve compiled the top 10 grants you should apply for right now.

1. FedEx Small Business Grant

Amount: Up to $50,000
Who Can Apply: U.S.-based small businesses with fewer than 100 employees.
Deadline: Annually in March
📌 How to Apply: Submit an application and business pitch video.

ro Tip: Some grants have specific eligibility criteria. Make sure to check if you qualify before investing time in writing an application.

2. Amazon Small Business Grants

Amount: $10,000–$25,000
Who Can Apply: Amazon sellers and small e-commerce businesses.
Deadline: Varies
📌 How to Apply: Must be an active Amazon seller with a growth plan.

3. SBA InnovateHER Grant

Amount: $10,000+
Who Can Apply: Women entrepreneurs and female-led businesses.
Deadline: Rolling applications
📌 How to Apply: Must demonstrate a positive impact on women and communities.

4. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Grant

Amount: Up to $4,000
Who Can Apply: Self-employed business owners in any industry.
Deadline: Quarterly
📌 How to Apply: Submit a business plan and financial details.

5. Comcast RISE Grants

Amount: Varies (Cash, consulting, and media advertising packages)
Who Can Apply: Minority-owned small businesses.
Deadline: Several cycles per year.
📌 How to Apply: Must be a Black, Hispanic, Asian, or Indigenous-owned business.

6. USDA Rural Business Grants

Amount: Up to $500,000
Who Can Apply: Small businesses in rural areas.
Deadline: Varies by state.
📌 How to Apply: Contact a local USDA office for state-specific details.

7. Visa Everywhere Initiative

Amount: $10,000–$50,000
Who Can Apply: Tech startups and FinTech companies.
Deadline: Annually in June
📌 How to Apply: Submit a pitch and business model presentation.

8. Amber Grant for Women

Amount: $10,000 monthly, $25,000 annual
Who Can Apply: Women entrepreneurs
Deadline: Monthly rolling applications
📌 How to Apply: Submit an application with a business overview.

9. Local & State Small Business Grants

Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Businesses located in specific states.
Deadline: Ongoing
📌 How to Apply: Check your state’s economic development website.

10. Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant

Amount: Up to $10,000
Who Can Apply: Businesses that complete Verizon’s small business training program.
Deadline: Varies
📌 How to Apply: Enroll in the Verizon Digital Ready Program to qualify.

Final Thoughts: Get Help Winning Grants

Applying for grants? Let Beyond Border Consulting help you secure funding. We offer expert grant research and proposal writing to increase your success rate. Contact us today!