Grants for Small businesses - Private

The Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC) is the largest business plan competition in the country, designed to advance innovation and technology commercialization opportunities in Arizona. Its mission aligns with supporting early-stage ventures in scaling their operations. The program is specifically structured to identify and nurture promising startups, providing them with the resources and guidance necessary to grow and succeed within the state's innovation ecosystem. The primary goal is to foster a vibrant technology and entrepreneurial landscape in Arizona, contributing to economic development and job creation. The target beneficiaries of the AIC are early-stage technology companies and startups based in Arizona. The program aims to support ventures that demonstrate potential for innovation and commercialization, helping them overcome common challenges associated with early-stage development, such as securing funding and gaining market traction. The impact goals include increasing the number of successful technology companies in Arizona, enhancing the state's reputation as a hub for innovation, and ultimately generating significant economic value through new businesses and advanced technologies. The AIC prioritizes ventures that are innovative and have a clear path to commercialization, focusing on sectors that can drive economic growth and technological advancement in Arizona. The program offers a two-tiered support system: semifinalists gain access to Venture Raise, a twelve-week hybrid accelerator designed to prepare startups for funding. This initial phase focuses on refining business models, pitch development, and investor readiness. Following Venture Raise, ten finalists are awarded $100,000 and enter Venture Scale, a six-month accelerator. This advanced phase provides customized support and one-on-one matching with ACA Entrepreneurs-in-Residence, focusing on strategic growth, market penetration, and long-term sustainability. The expected outcomes include a higher success rate for participating startups, increased investment in Arizona's technology sector, and the creation of high-quality jobs. Measurable results are tied to the number of companies funded, the amount of follow-on investment secured by participants, and the sustained growth of businesses emerging from the program. The Arizona Commerce Authority's strategic priority through the AIC is to build a robust and competitive innovation economy. Their theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial awards, comprehensive accelerator programs, and expert mentorship, early-stage ventures can significantly de-risk their growth trajectory and achieve commercial success. This, in turn, creates a virtuous cycle of innovation, attracting further talent and investment to the state and solidifying Arizona's position as a leader in technology and entrepreneurship.

This grant provides $5,000 to U.S.-based entrepreneurs and small business owners who submit a structured business plan to support their growth and development.

This funding opportunity provides financial support and promotional exposure to women entrepreneurs who own small businesses in the U.S., helping them grow and connect with their communities.

The Home for Dreams Initiative is a mentorship and grant program specifically designed to support Black-owned businesses. If your business is selected, you will receive a $25,000 grant, one-on-one meetings with Ariel Kaye – Parachute Founder, access to mentorship from other Parachute team members, and brand amplification through Parachute’s email and social channels. The application process requires filling out the provided information. Please note that all non-public business and financial information provided will be kept confidential. The Sponsor reserves the right to cancel or modify the Initiative at any time without notice. By participating in the Initiative, you agree to be bound by the Terms and Conditions outlined by the Sponsor. To apply for the Home for Dreams Initiative, please visit this link: [Application Link](https://www.parachutehome.com/mentorship-apply?gh_jid=6958311002)

Venmo Small Business Grant Program Terms & Conditions Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. 1. Eligibility: The Grant Program is open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who: Are at least eighteen (18) years old. Have a U.S. Venmo Account and valid business profile on Venmo in good standing, with a profile photo, background photo, and business description at the time of application and through the time of any grant award. Own a small business, defined as a business entity that is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of its principal place of business (within the U.S. or D.C.) and: Can promptly provide all government documentation requested by Sponsor or Administrator to show proof of business status. Is active and has sold at least $500 worth of goods or services within the three (3) months prior to the start of the Grant Program Period. Employs ten (10) employees or less and has less than $50,000 in annual sales. Establishing a U.S. Venmo Account and valid business profile on Venmo is free. Conducting transactions on Venmo is not an eligibility criterion for this Grant Program. Employees of PayPal, Inc., Merkle Inc., Global Entrepreneurship Network, Inc., Hello Alice, Inc., and their parent and affiliate companies, as well as the immediate family (spouse, parents, siblings, and children) and household members of each such employee, are not eligible. The Grant Program is void where prohibited by law. 2. Sponsor: PayPal, Inc., 2211 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95131. Administrator: Merkle Inc., 3000 Town Center, Floor 21, Southfield, MI 48075. 3. Agreement to Terms & Conditions: Participation in this Grant Program constitutes applicant’s full and unconditional agreement to these Terms & Conditions and Sponsor’s and Administrator’s decisions, which are final and binding in all matters related to this Grant Program. Receiving a grant, if selected, is contingent upon fulfilling all requirements set forth herein and any additional requirements disclosed by Sponsor. 4. Timing: The Grant Program begins on May 10, 2024, at 12:00 a.m. Eastern Time ("ET") and ends on May 31, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET (the "Grant Program Period"). Sponsor's servers are the official time-keeping device for the Grant Program.

This funding opportunity provides £2 million for researchers worldwide to develop and test combination drug therapies that could slow, stop, or reverse Parkinson's disease progression.

Honeycomb Credit's Golden Summer Grant offers $5,000 to small businesses, providing an opportunity to expand menus, renovate storefronts, or invest in cutting-edge equipment. The grant aims to help small businesses unlock their potential and increase revenue. Eligible applicants must be small business owners, and applications are due by September 1, 2024. The winner will be announced by September 15, 2024, and will receive the grant in the form of a check or Visa gift card.

This program provides funding to support projects that restore and maintain trails and watersheds in national forests and grasslands across the United States.

This grant provides funding for innovators to develop affordable and user-friendly tools that can safely detect and mark underwater explosive ordnance in post-conflict areas, helping local communities mitigate risks and promote safe economic activities.

This grant provides $50,000 to diverse-led small businesses in Pennsylvania and New Jersey that meet specific criteria, aiming to support underrepresented entrepreneurs in creating new jobs and fostering business growth.

The Pennsylvania Water Trails Program Mini Grant, overseen by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) in partnership with the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and the National Park Service, aims to address urgent issues on designated water trails that compromise safety or access. With a total of $2000 available, this grant supports projects that can quickly resolve situations like storm-induced damage, navigational obstructions, or critical sign destruction that impedes safe water trail access. Eligible projects must match the grant 1:1 with cash or in-kind services. The grant serves as a last-resort funding source for unforeseen issues affecting Pennsylvania's 28 designated water trails, emphasizing safety and accessibility while fostering recreational opportunities and sustainable natural resource use. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until September 30, 2024, with awards based on urgency and committee discretion.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit programs that enhance youth opportunities, promote health, ensure financial stability, and build community resilience in Southeast Missouri.

The Women's Business Development Council (WBDC) offers the Ignite Grant, a program designed to foster the growth and profitability of women-owned small businesses in Connecticut. This initiative directly aligns with the WBDC's mission to support women entrepreneurs by providing crucial financial resources. The grants, ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, are specifically for clearly defined projects that demonstrate a measurable impact on business expansion. The target beneficiaries of the Ignite Grant are women-owned businesses that are at least 51% woman-owned, headquartered in Connecticut, registered in the state, and owned by a Connecticut resident who is at least 18 years old. These businesses must have been operating for at least two years with a record of sales, possess annual sales/revenue between $25,000 and $2,000,000 in the last twelve months, and be in good standing with the CT Department of Revenue Services. They must also have an established business checking account and utilize a formal, digital bookkeeping/financial system. The program explicitly aims to support for-profit businesses. The WBDC prioritizes projects that will have a demonstrable impact on business growth and profitability, encouraging recipients to invest at least $2,500 into their business in the last 12 months, unless located in a distressed municipality. Certain businesses are ineligible, including childcare businesses (though other WBDC programs may apply to them), non-profit organizations, current WBDC vendors, and businesses that have previously received an Ignite, Equity Match, or WBDC Municipal Grant. Additionally, businesses in industries such as medical marijuana, liquor sales, adult entertainment, vape/tobacco, gambling, gun sales, and various financial services or "going-out-of-business" sales are excluded. The expected outcomes of the Ignite Grant are the measurable growth and increased profitability of recipient businesses. By providing capital for specific projects, the WBDC aims to empower women entrepreneurs to expand their operations, create jobs, and contribute to the economic vitality of Connecticut. The program's theory of change posits that by strategically investing in well-defined projects within eligible women-owned businesses, the WBDC can directly facilitate sustainable business development and economic empowerment for women in the state.

This program provides financial support and business development resources to creative entrepreneurs in Illinois and Indiana, helping them grow and sustain their businesses through education and coaching.

This funding opportunity provides $50,000 to support diverse-led businesses in Southern California, helping them create new premium wage jobs while offering business development resources.

The Latino Restaurant Association's Helping Latino Restaurant Owners Thrive Grant Program aims to support Latino-owned restaurants. This initiative aligns with the association's broader mission to provide resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for Latino-owned restaurants to succeed and grow. The program specifically targets business growth and sustainability within the Latino restaurant community, reflecting the association's commitment to fostering economic development and cultural preservation through culinary entrepreneurship. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are restaurant owners of Latino heritage who have made significant contributions to the Latino community. The program intends to assist 35 restaurants located in South Fresno, Kings, and Tulare counties in California. The impact goals include providing financial relief and development opportunities, with a specific focus on supporting smaller businesses, as eligibility criteria limit applicants to those owning three or fewer restaurants, each making less than $1 million per year, and having been in business for more than three years. The program prioritizes businesses that are current customers of SoCalGas and located within the specified counties. The grant size ranges from $1,000 to $10,000, with an immediate offer of a $2,500 grant for eligible applicants. This financial support is designed to address immediate operational needs and facilitate long-term stability. The grant documentation requires a W9 form, official photo ID, annual reports or taxes for the last three years, and a current SoCal Gas Commercial Bill, ensuring accountability and verification of eligibility. Expected outcomes include enhanced business operations through the use of funds for kitchen equipment, technology upgrades, and employee training and bonuses. Applicants are required to detail how the funding would impact their business and community, and how they plan to sustain the received funds, encouraging thoughtful and strategic utilization. While the "Grant Duration" is not explicitly mentioned, the focus is on immediate impact and fostering long-term sustainability, demonstrating the association's strategic priority to empower Latino restaurant owners and contribute to the economic vitality of their communities.

Glendale Pandemic Response Small Business Assistance Program in Arizona offers grants for working capital, including payroll, lease payments, business loan payments, utilities, and inventory. The program also provides access to high-quality webinars and workshops in English and Spanish, offering practical tips for small businesses to improve their economic position, recover from interruptions/closures, and mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This funding opportunity supports collaborative cancer prevention and education programs in Indiana, specifically targeting high-burden cancers and underserved communities, with a focus on reducing risk behaviors and improving health outcomes.

This program provides financial assistance to small businesses in historic downtowns affected by recent natural disasters, helping them recover and thrive.

The UpPrize Social Innovation Challenge, powered by Innovation Works and funded by the BNY Mellon Foundation of Southwestern Pennsylvania, is an annual competition designed to foster entrepreneurship with a lasting community impact in Southwestern Pennsylvania. This initiative creates cross-sector partnerships to tackle pressing community problems, aligning with a broader mission to promote social innovation through investment, grants, and educational assistance. Since its inception in 2015, the UpPrize Challenge has allocated over $3.1 million to local nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and other participants, demonstrating a commitment to empowering community-driven solutions. The primary beneficiaries of this challenge are nonprofits, businesses, and individuals who are based in and whose startup's impact is within one of the following Pennsylvania counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington, or Westmoreland. The program specifically targets those who are 18 years or older and have not received $50,000 or more in previous UpPrize cycles. The core impact goal is to launch or expand startups that leverage technology to address social inequities, thereby creating a meaningful and lasting community impact in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The program's priorities and focus areas revolve around technology-driven solutions to social inequities. This is evidenced by the prize structure, which offers combined prize monies and accelerator assistance to the top three finalists to facilitate the launch or expansion of such startups. The challenge encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in areas that can demonstrate tangible benefits to the community through the application of new technologies and creative problem-solving. Expected outcomes include the successful launch or expansion of promising startups, leading to measurable improvements in social equity within the targeted counties. The challenge's structure, which awards significant prize money ($125,000 for first place, $100,000 for second, and $75,000 for third), incentivizes the development of impactful solutions. These investments are intended to translate into direct community benefits, fostering a more equitable and innovative environment in Southwestern Pennsylvania through the practical application of entrepreneurial endeavors.