How the FedEx Small Business Grant can Give Your Business the Boost it Needs
Small businesses are the backbone of any economy. According to the US Census Bureau, small businesses accounted for nearly 99.9% of all businesses in the US in 2019, with an estimated 31.7 million in operation. However, not all small businesses survive the first few years of operation, with only about half of all small businesses making it past the five-year mark. Any small business owner can tell you that running a successful company requires time, resources, and money. This is where the FedEx Small Business Grant can come in and give your business the boost it needs to thrive.
What is the FedEx Small Business Grant?
The FedEx Small Business Grant is an annual contest sponsored by FedEx that awards grants to small businesses in the US. The grant provides an opportunity for small business owners to showcase their unique products or services and win up to $50,000 to take their business to the next level. The grant is open to all US-based small businesses that have been in operation for at least six months and have fewer than 99 employees.
Why Apply for the FedEx Small Business Grant?
Winning a FedEx Small Business Grant can provide a significant boost to your business. The funds can be used for a variety of purposes, such as marketing campaigns, hiring new employees, or investing in new products or technologies. In addition to the financial benefits, winning the grant can lend valuable credibility to your business and increase brand recognition. The exposure gained from being a grant winner can attract new customers and boost sales, ultimately leading to long-term success.
How to Apply for the FedEx Small Business Grant
The application process for the FedEx Small Business Grant is straightforward. Applicants must provide basic information about their company, a brief description of how they would use the grant funds, and a 500-word essay explaining why they should be awarded the grant. The application must also include photos and/or videos showcasing the business. The application period usually opens in February and closes in March. FedEx selects ten finalists, who are then invited to submit additional information and give a presentation to a panel of judges. The winner is announced in April.
Success Stories from FedEx Small Business Grant Winners
Many small businesses have seen significant growth and success as a result of winning the FedEx Small Business Grant. Nohbo, a Florida-based company that creates eco-friendly personal care products, won the grant in 2018 and used the funds to expand their product line and hire additional employees. In the two years since winning the grant, Nohbo has seen sales increase by 500% and has been featured in major media outlets such as Forbes and CNN. Another success story is 1812 Brewery, a small craft brewery in Maryland that won the grant in 2019. 1812 Brewery used the funds to invest in new fermentation tanks and other equipment, leading to a 60% increase in production and significant growth in distribution throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
The Bottom Line
The FedEx Small Business Grant provides small business owners with a unique opportunity to take their business to the next level. Applying for the grant can be a valuable investment in the future success of your business. By providing funding, exposure, and credibility, winning the grant can give your business the boost it needs to thrive in a competitive market. So, if you are a small business owner looking to grow your business, consider applying for the FedEx Small Business Grant and see what opportunities await.
