Small Business Grants Available Across The U.S

Small business grants offer vital financial support to companies facing challenges in maintaining their operations. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur seeking a strong start or an established business affected by the pandemic, numerous grant options are at your disposal.

Here are some recent grant opportunities for small businesses in the U.S.

Matlacha Hookers Hurricane Ian Small Business Grants

The Matlacha Hookers Inc., a Florida-based nonprofit organization, is providing grants to small businesses impacted by Hurricane Ian. They initiated a GoFundMe campaign after the hurricane to raise funds for businesses in the Greater Pine Island region and have amassed $20,000 for grant distribution. Businesses must be local, independently owned and run, and situated in the Greater Pine Island region to be eligible. They should also be open right now and have been for at least a year prior to Hurricane Ian. Matlacha Hookers must receive applications by June 23.

Spokane 2023 Small Business Assistance Grant

Spokane, Washington is currently accepting applications for its 2023 Small Business Assistance Grant. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, these grants cater to small businesses negatively affected by the pandemic. To qualify for grants of up to $45,000, businesses must demonstrate a decline in gross revenue or an increase in expenses. Additionally, businesses established in 2020 or 2021 may be eligible for smaller grants of up to $15,000. This marks the program’s second funding phase, and businesses that were awarded grants in the initial round cannot participate. Applications will be accepted until August 31 or until funds are depleted.

Funding for the Suffolk County Water Quality Protection and Restoration Program.

An innovative grant scheme is being introduced in Suffolk County, New York, to help small companies with connecting to the county’s wastewater infrastructure. Eligible businesses or property owners can apply for grants of up to $15,000 to cover some of the cost of sewer line connection. The county is also collaborating with Dime Bank to offer low-interest loans to help businesses finance the remainder of their connection expenses. The Water Quality Protection and Restoration Program Fund is a component of a $1 million effort aimed at aiding the county in transitioning from antiquated septic systems to modern sewer lines. It is anticipated that the fund will support approximately 65 businesses with 25 or fewer employees, and application submissions will commence in the autumn. 

Hamilton County Small Business Grants In Hamilton County, Ohio.

A small business grant initiative is being offered to assist local residents in starting new enterprises. County officials announced the program at the inaugural Small Business Day on May 22 at the Sharonville Convention Center, coinciding with the opening of the new Hamilton County Office of Small Business. The initiative will provide grants of up to $10,000, accompanied by coaching to assist applicants throughout the process. The county has designated roughly $4 million for the program, and applications will be accepted until June 20.

Washington County Small Business Impact Grant Program

Washington County, Maryland is in the process of launching its new Small Business Impact Grant program, made possible by $5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. Qualified businesses can apply for grants up to $25,000 to address losses or expenses incurred due to the pandemic. The program will be managed by the Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development. The application window is set to open on June 5 and will continue until June 16.

Colorado Springs Accelerate COS Small Business Loan Fund

The City of Colorado Springs is collaborating with local business development service Exponential Impact to introduce the Accelerate COS Small Business Loan Fund. This fund will provide micro-loans of up to $10,000 and expansion loans of up to $50,000 for eligible local businesses. Additionally, the program features mentorship and learning opportunities to aid businesses that qualify for funding. The application window is currently open and will close on June 16.

If you’re a small business owner, be sure to explore these and other grant opportunities available to you. Grants can be an excellent way to kickstart your business or help you recover from a financial setback.

How to Discover Small Business Grants?

There are several methods to find small business grants. One approach is to search online. Websites like Grants.gov and USA.gov list small business grants, and you can also search for grants by topic or location.

Another way to find small business grants is to contact your local chamber of commerce or economic development agency. They may be able to provide you with information about grants.

How to Craft a Winning Small Business Grant Proposal?

Once you’ve identified a few grant opportunities that interest you, it’s time to start writing your proposal. Here are some tips for crafting a winning proposal:

• Be clear and concise. Grant reviewers will be reading dozens, if not hundreds, of proposals. Ensure yours is easy to read and comprehend.
• *Emphasize your qualifications. Grant reviewers will want to know why you’re the best candidate or organization to receive the grant. Be sure to highlight your experience, expertise, and history of success.
• Be specific about how you will use the grant funds. Grant reviewers will want to know precisely how you plan to use the money. Be as specific as possible, and include a timeline for your project.
• Proofread carefully. Before submitting your proposal, proofread it thoroughly for any errors. A sloppy proposal will leave a poor impression on the grant reviewer.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of crafting a winning small business grant proposal.