Get Ahead in 2023: Apply for These 32 Small Business Grants
Business grants can be a dream come true for many small business owners, but finding the right grant can be overwhelming. In the past couple of years, many small businesses have faced a lot of challenges because of limited government assistance programs due to the pandemic. However, there is still hope for small businesses that are looking to start, grow, or expand in 2023. In this article, we will discuss 32 small business grants that small business owners can apply for in 2023.
1. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grant
The SBIR Grant is ideal for small businesses that are focused on research and development. This grant provides funding to businesses that are working on innovative research or technology projects and have a positive impact on society or the economy.
2. USDA Rural Business Development Grants
The Rural Business Development Grant is ideal for small businesses that are looking to expand or develop in rural areas. This grant provides funding for projects that promote economic development in rural communities.
3. National Institute of Standards and Technology / Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST/MEP) Funding
The NIST/MEP funding is ideal for small businesses in the manufacturing industry. This program provides funding for projects that improve efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness of small businesses in the manufacturing sector.
4. Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Grant
The STTR grant is another research-based grant that provides funding to small businesses that partner with universities or research institutions. This grant funds research and development projects that have commercial potential.
5. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
The CDBG program provides funding for projects that support economic development activities, such as infrastructure improvement, job creation, and entrepreneurship development.
6. Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants
The REAP grant is dedicated to promoting clean energy in rural areas by providing funding for energy-efficient projects. Small businesses in rural areas that are looking to make energy-efficient upgrades can benefit from this grant.
7. Small Business Loans from the Small Business Administration (SBA)
The SBA provides loans to small businesses that are looking to start, grow, or expand their business. Small businesses can use the money for capital, equipment purchases, or other business expenses.
8. USDA Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) Program
The VAPG program is ideal for small businesses that are involved in producing value-added agricultural products. This grant provides funding for projects that enhance product value, improve product marketing, and increase competitiveness.
9. Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program
The Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program provides funding to businesses that are owned and run by women. This program provides women-owned small businesses with better access to federal contracting opportunities.
10. The Small Business Marketing Research Program
The Small Business Marketing Research Program provides funding for market research to help businesses gather the data they need to make informed decisions.
11. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
The NASE Growth Grants are available to small businesses that are owned and operated by self-employed individuals. Small business owners can use funds to grow their business and invest in marketing, equipment, or other business expenses.
12. Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Grants
The MBDA provides funding to minority-owned businesses that are looking to expand their business or enter new markets. This grant aims to improve economic conditions and create jobs in minority communities.
13. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund Program
The CDFI program is ideal for small businesses that are located in communities that lack access to financial resources. Small business owners can use the funds to start or grow their business.
14. National Science Foundation (NSF) Grant
The NSF Grant provides funding to small businesses that are focused on research and development projects in science or technology. This program emphasizes innovation, commercial potential, and economic impact.
15. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloans
The SBA Microloan program provides funding to small businesses that are looking for smaller loans. This program funds loans up to $50,000 for small businesses that need capital for equipment, inventory, or other business expenses.
16. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry’s (NARI) Workforce Development Scholarship
The NARI Workforce Development Scholarship provides funding for small businesses in the remodeling industry. This scholarship funds education and training programs that develop the skills of employees, improving job performance and satisfaction.
17. Davis-Bacon and Related Acts Apprenticeship Program
The Davis-Bacon Act provides funding for small businesses in the apprenticeship program. This program funds on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and other workforce development activities.
18. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance Grants
The SBA Disaster Assistance Grant provides funding to small businesses that have experienced physical or financial damages as a result of a disaster. This grant funds repairs, replacement of assets, and working capital loans.
19. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Grants
The EPA provides funding for small businesses that are focused on environmental protection. The EPA grants aim to improve the environment while promoting economic growth and job creation.
20. Small Business Administration (SBA) Surety Bond Guarantee Program
The SBA Surety Bond Guarantee Program provides funding for small businesses that need bonding in order to bid on a contract. This program guarantees surety bonds up to $10 million.
21. The Department of Transportation (DOT) Short Line Railroad Grant Program
The DOT Short Line Railroad Grant Program provides funding to small businesses in the rail transportation industry. This program aims to improve safety and infrastructure on short line railroads.
22. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Grants Program
The NEA Grants Program provides funding for small businesses that are active in the arts. This program funds projects that promote artistic development or support the conservation of cultural heritage.
23. National Institutes of Health (NIH) Grant
The NIH Grant provides funding for small businesses that are focused on medical and scientific research. This program encourages innovative research and commercialization of new products and technologies.
24. Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) Loan Program
The SBA 7(a) Loan Program provides funding to small businesses that are looking to start, grow, or expand their business. The loan can be used for capital, equipment purchases, or other business expenses.
25. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm-to-School Grant Program
The USDA Farm-to-School Grant Program provides funding for small businesses that are involved in the production, distribution, or marketing of local food products. This program aims to promote healthy eating and education about local food systems.
26. Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) Grant Program
The CPB Grant Program provides funding for small businesses that are involved in public broadcasting. This program funds media projects that promote education, cultural diversity, and civic engagement.
27. Angel Investment Network
The Angel Investment Network provides funding for small businesses that are looking for venture capital. Angel investors provide funding and expertise to help small businesses grow and succeed.
28. State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)
The SSBCI provides funding to states for small business lending and investment programs. Small businesses in participating states can apply for loans and other forms of financing through this program.
29. Community Connect Grant Program
The Community Connect Grant Program provides funding for small businesses in rural areas that lack access to broadband service. This program funds projects that improve access to broadband service, promoting economic development in rural areas.
30. Small Business Tax Credits
Small businesses may qualify for tax credits if they meet certain criteria. Tax credits can help reduce the amount of taxes small businesses pay, providing additional capital to invest in their business.
31. Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter or Indiegogo provide small businesses with a way to raise money directly from consumers. Small businesses can pitch their product or service to the public, who can then pledge to fund the project.
32. Competitions and Awards
Many organizations offer competitions and awards to small businesses that are innovative or have a positive impact on society. Winning a competition or award can provide small businesses with recognition, exposure, and funding.
Conclusion
Small business grants can provide a significant boost to small businesses looking to start, grow, or expand in 2023. While finding the right grant can be challenging, this article has provided information on 32 different grants that small businesses can apply for, depending on their industry, location, or project goals. Small businesses should carefully research and consider their options to find the grant that best suits their needs and can help them achieve their business goals.
