Why NextDoor? NextDoor is essentially a modern local paper. NextDoor is owned by Ring and creates a community feeling for your town in which businesses can advertise and be reviewed. A good NextDoor account can be crucial to creating a trustworthy local business. 

1. Head to https://nextdoor.com/create-business and select, “Create a Business Account”

2. Enter in your business name

3. Enter in your address

4. Type in a pick a business category that is closest to your business and claim your page

5. Once you do that, you’ll be directed to your account page. Filling out as many fields in your account as you can will help to expand and legitimize your page.

6. An Important next step is to create your advertisement here and begin advertising to your community!

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Why Yelp? Yelp is essentially the modern yellow-pages. With Millions of active users, reviews on Yelp can be the deal-breaker for whether or not someone chooses your business over your competition. 

1. Head to https://business.yelp.com/ and select, “Manage my free listing”

2. Search for your business. If it comes up, select it and head to Step X. If you need to, add your business by typing the full name and select “Add to Yelp for free”

3. Enter in your Business Phone Number

4. Enter in your Website

5. Enter the Category of Business that you are

6. Enter in your business address

        a. Indicate if you have multiple locations or not.

7. Yelp will then ask you to confirm via a phone call or text message

8. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be taken to your Yelp Account Page to finish out the finer details of your account!

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Step 1: Claim Your FREE Page 1 Listing On Google

Google is the gateway to the internet for many, make sure your business shows up first without spending a dime by making a Google My Business listing.  This is how you do it.  Step by step!

1. Go to https://www.google.com/business/

2. Click the large blue Manage button to get started.

          2a. This will open a new tab

3. If you have a google account, log into it 

          3a. If you do not have a @gmail, be sure to make one, it’s quick, easy and free

4. Enter your Business Name

         4a. Attempt to make the name as close to the Legal Business Name as possible

5. Choose your Business Type, checking any that apply
         5a. This will affect which of the following steps you see. We are going to cover them all

6. (Optional). Link your Online Store

         6a. If you have an online store where customers can purchase from you, enter it here. 

7. Type in your “Business Category”, whatever you feel best describes the services/products you offer

8. Enter your Business Address. This is whatever you file taxes for or a physical location.
        8a. This does not automatically add a google maps location, this is simply for your internal profile

9. Add your business’ phone number if you have one

        9a. Do not add a personal phone number unless you are interested in people being able to reach you through this number.

        9b. You can learn to set-up a google VoiP system with our guide here.

10. You can opt into Google Maps. This will make your location discoverable by Google Maps and is vital to finding a wider customer base.

       10a. This ties back to your business category as selecting an appropriate category can make your business discoverable under some of Google Maps’ default search categories 

11. List your Business Hours next.

12. This next part is for Business Messages. Google has a messages feature for people to send you messages and questions.

       12a. If enabled it is something to watch and be active with. It’s very important to have a reputation as an active owner. 

 

13. Write a detailed description of your business. This is more important the more niche your business is or the more B2B you are. 

14. Business Photos are vital for consumer facing businesses. It’s important for people to see what you do. Most average customers won’t read more than a sentence of your business description

15. The Ad Credits are a solid bonus that Google gives here. 500 Dollars is added to your account if you spend 500 in credits. We have a short guide here on these as this is both important and time consuming.

16. You can get a Domain Name if you need one from Google. However if you need one, it’s much preferable to get one from a web host that can host your website. We have more details in this guide about hosting and websites. 

17. That’s it! The first part of setting up with Google business! There’s so much more to cover as Google is its own massive beast. 

Need help or have questions? Text your MNGRS coach so they can help you.  Not yet assigned to a personal coach?  Click here to sign up and get instant access to a Google expert who can help you through these steps.

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Google Maps

Millions of people use Google maps every minute.  From driving directions to checking whats around them, google maps has a lot of eyeballs you can direct to your business for FREE.  Just create your listing in google maps and watch the customers find you.

1. Navigate to your Google Business Account. This is a page worth bookmarking

2. Head to the Info Tab in your Account Manager. This houses the info that people will see when they search you on Google Maps

3. Edit all this information to be what you want people to see

4. Once this information is saved you can go and view your business with a search one Google Maps

Need help or have questions? Text your MNGRS coach so they can help you.  Not yet assigned to a personal coach?  Click here to sign up and get instant access to a Google expert who can help you through these steps.

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Using the FREE $500 Google Ad Credit

Google is a great way to get customers.  As we said before, it’s the gateway to the internet.  Google knows the power of their system which is why they are willing to give new advertisers up to $500 in free ad credit to prove it. If you have any plans to run online ads, this is a great place to start.

1. Navigate to your Google Business Account. This is a page worth bookmarking

2. Select the “Create an Ad” Option
          a. This option will say “Finish Ad if you are in the middle of ad creation”

3. Decide if the Ad will use your Business profile with Google or if you would like to add your own information

4. Decide where you would like your customers to go when they click on your ad

5. See the ad the way your customers will see it! Both mobile and desktop

6. Decide your advertising goals, select any that apply

7. Write the ad. Make it short and sweet. It needs to catch people

8. List Keyword Tags here, pick all that can and do apply 

          a. This is incredibly vital, these tags determine which search results your business appears on.

9. Select your ad radius. If you are a local business you may want to limit where your ad appears

10. Select your monthly Ad Budget, this determines the level of visibility you can get.

          a. Don’t go beyond your budget, spend the amount that if affordable for your company

11. Review all the details

12. Enter your payment info. Make sure that your 500 dollar Ad Credit is there!

13. You are good to go!

Need help or have questions? Text your MNGRS coach so they can help you.  Not yet assigned to a personal coach?  Click here to sign up and get instant access to a Google expert who can help you through these steps.

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Understand Google Reviews

Reviews are a critical part of any business, they can literally make or break your entire business regardless of your product or model. Understanding Google Reviews can help you to maximize your business potential and interact with customers in a new way.

A first note; You must have verified your business with Google before you can take any further steps. Google offers a verification by Postcard, just to confirm that your address exists. Once that is completed we can dig into reviews!

1. Go to your Business Profile or Google your business to see what your current review status is. You may be surprised by what you find or how many reviews you have

From here, a few things can happen; if the review is positive you may want to thank the person for leaving a review and that you hope to see them again. If you remember them, now is a great time to let them know that and discuss your interactions with them.

The Alternative can also be the case though, you may find some negative reviews. Don’t panic, this happens. Not everyone can have a perfect experience. What we do next is the big question.

1. Is this review legitimate? What was the customer’s bad experience? It might be worth replying to them as an effort to apologize and salvage the customer experience.

2. Does the review feel inappropriate, hateful or incorrect? If there are issues or inconsistencies with the review, you can report it to Google.
          a. A report MAY get the review pulled. It has to break one or more of Google’s guidelines. But if it does, getting it taken down is helpful for your business to prevent inaccurate reviews from skewing people’s perceptions.

Whatever the case may be here. Always read your reviews carefully and attempt to learn and grow from them. There’s always improvements to be made and reviews are a great way to stay on the pulse of your customer base.

Need help or have questions? Text your MNGRS coach so they can help you.  Not yet assigned to a personal coach?  Click here to sign up and get instant access to a Google expert who can help you through these steps.

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Photos and Videos

Photos. These are often an overlooked and underappreciated part of your business; this also goes for videos. These can offer some insights into your business, team or even some fun things your business likes to do. Day to day activities? Logo or advertisements? Employees did some volunteer work? All of these are perfect photo or video opportunities to share on Google.

A first note; You must have verified your business with Google before you can take any further steps. Google offers a verification by Postcard, just to confirm that your address exists. Once that is completed we can dig into photos!

    1. We already know the Google Business Profile, so let’s go there first and click “Photos”
    2. From here we can see some options or suggestions for photos and videos to upload.

How many and which ones you want to fill out will depend on your business. A cafe will want to show off their “Interior” but a Law Firm is unlikely to care about that.

Uploading your logo and a form of “Cover Image” is a great way to really express the branding of your business and can instantly communicate tone and intention. The overview page also has a spot for one video and an interior.

    1. While the interior will vary in relevance based on your business, you should consider a video. Something with decent production value and script writing is less expensive than one might think and can very much increase the legitimacy of your business to others
The team page is perhaps the most important for any client oriented business. If people are going to be seeing your employees frequently or if your employees will be going to people’s homes, it can be a big help to utilize this option.

The other categories all speak for themselves and should be considered heavily. Photos and videos can be transformational for your business when used properly and effectively. 

Need help or have questions? Text your MNGRS coach so they can help you.  Not yet assigned to a personal coach?  Click here to sign up and get instant access to a Google expert who can help you through these steps.

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Getting Started Building your Website

1.  The first and most important step is to make a few choices about your business plan
    a. Are you looking to build your own website or use a website builder?
    b. Do you need to sell products on your website?

2.  From here, you need to claim a domain name. It’s best to look at a variety of hosting websites to claim your name and begin hosting that domain.
    a. A hosting website is a website that pays for server space to store your domain name, the records that you own it and subsequently any website or certificate information that goes with it.
    b. There are many websites that you can choose from, from well known ones like Godaddy to more niche options like Bluehost. If you are overwhelmed with options, contact us! We can help you select the best service for your business!

3.  With a domain name and hosting plan in hand, we now move back to our first step and question. What kind of website do you need?
    a. If you need to build a website to market your business without selling products, you should likely be looking at services like Wix.com to create your site
    b. If you need to sell products, you should look to a service like Shopify as they make creating a storefront simple and friendly.

4.  But! There is a cost with all these things, from the domain to the hosting to the services you use, there is monthly upkeep. What is the alternative?
    a. You can also contact a web designer, the initial costs will be higher as you are paying the designer to craft you a custom website. But doing so can create a unique footprint for your business
    b. With a custom site, your monthly maintenance is simply the hosting and the domain name. You just pay the designer a flat fee should changes need to be made

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Steps to take to boost your credit score

First let me say my techniques are not going to repair your credit, they will provide quick fixes and the amount of improvement you see depends on being able to implement as many of these tips as possible as when added together they will give you a good boost in score.

TIP #1

First is a simple one, Experian has this credit score boost thing, they connect to your utility bills and you get credit for paying them on time, ONLY DO THIS IF YOU PAY THESE BILLS ON TIME

Click this link to complete this tip

TIP #2

This is the biggest impact you can have on your score but it requires a family member or friend who wants to help you.  If you have a family member, or friend with good credit who is willing to help you they can add you to their credit card to make sure they pay on time and better than the minimum payment.  They don’t need to give you the card, they can just add you then destroy the card themselves. You’ll have no ability to charge.  Obviously don’t tell the credit card company when you get the card your intentions.

Their good payment history will report to your credit report as well making you an instant good credit risk in 30 days, the more tradelines, the better the friends score the bigger and faster the jumps.

Use this technique to boost your score

Once your score improves then in the same 1 day period apply for loans, and credit cards in your name, once you are approved for one go apply for others, just not with the same banks, so if Chase approves you go try bank of America, not another chase card, use this technique to accumulate as much credit as you can in the single day, it won’t hit your credit report for 24 hours so you have time to apply, don’t get greedy, 2-4 cards and or loans is more than enough to apply for. 

Tip #3

Sign up for Chime

Chime.com offers a way to get a credit card with no credit check that reports to major credit bureaus showing them you can pay your bills on time

Tip #4

Sign up for Tally

Credit Scores matter. Whether we like it or not they can make or break some of our biggest life decisions. Credit Card debt can destroy our scores and make doing things we want, like opening our own business far more difficult. 

There are services that can help you though. Tally is one such service, offering a loan that pays off your monthly credit card bill automatically for a lower interest rate than nearly any credit card.

Tally does a soft credit check to ensure that you are eligible for their service. The soft check does not count against your score. After that, you can see the loan amount you qualify for and your custom interest rate.

You still have to pay Tally back of course, but since they pay off your cards in full over the course of 2-3 months, this reports back to your score that those cards have been paid. This typically causes a massive upswing in your credit. Some users have seen as much as 150 points added to their credit score.

If you are applying for loans for your business, 150 points can be the difference between approval or denial. Condensing your monthly credit card minimums is just an added bonus.

Go to https://www.meettally.com/ for more information.

More Information

Join our Facebook group and get help from a volunteer credit associate click here

Here are the FREE Grants and Loan Programs We Found in Nationwide

Nationwide

The Microloan Program

The Microloan program provides very small loans (up to $50,000) to women, low-income, minority, veteran, and other small business owners through a network of more than 100 intermediaries nationwide. Under this program, the SBA makes funds available to nonprofit intermediaries that, in turn, make the small loans directly to start-up and existing businesses. Entrepreneurs work directly with the Intermediaries to receive financing and business knowledge support. The proceeds of a microloan can be used for working capital, or the purchase of furniture, fixtures, supplies, materials, and/or equipment. Microloans may not be used for the purchase of real estate. Interest rates are negotiated between the borrower and the intermediary. The maximum term for a microloan is six years. Because funds are borrowed from the intermediary, SBA is not involved in the business loan application or approval process. And, payments are made directly from the small business to the intermediary.

Where to apply: 

https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans 

 

Government Grants Location Tool

What is it: 

Think Google for all government grant programs

How to apply: 

Search the database and apply for over 2400 grants at https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html

 

Additional programs:

USDA Grants

All Programs | Rural Development

 

SBA Grant Programs

Grants

 

Grants for Women

Women’s Capital Directory

 

Silver & Riley Grant

What is it?  

Silver & Riley is pleased to announce our latest round of grant funding for women owned businesses through our Buy 1, Give 5 program – our commitment to helping woman entrepreneurs start, grow and scale their businesses

Where to apply?

https://silverandriley.com/pages/grant-application 

 

Grants for the Black Community

https://www.attdreaminblack.com/contest

 

Open to Anyone

Fedex Small Business Grant Contest

What is it?

Since 2012, the Small Business Grant Contest has awarded more than $1.5 million in cash and prizes to over 100 small businesses. The contest, which awards unique and innovative small businesses, has drawn more than 50,000 entrants—including nearly 18,000 in 2022. We love seeing our winners continue to grow.

Where to apply?

https://www.fedex.com/en-us/small-business/grant-contest.html

Other options for cash flow

Facebook or better known as Meta now will buy your future invoices.  Have an invoice due in 30 days but need the cash today? For just a 1% fee Meta will buy your invoice from you and wait to collect it instead of you waiting

Learn more at Meta Invoice Fast Track: Get Invoices Paid for Immediately | Meta for Business

Here are the FREE Grants and Loan Programs We Found in Every State

Alabama

Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program

What is it?
Alabama is teeming with homegrown talent and big ideas that have the potential to change the way we live, work and play.

We want to bridge connections and resources for innovative small businesses generating transformative research and technology. That’s why we created the Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program.

These program grants are non-dilutive, meaning you get the money without giving up shares of your company. Eligible applicants (all you dreamers, movers and shakers) have already proven value and viability. Now it’s time for us back you up with additional funding to help move your idea from concept to commercialization

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here: Programs – Innovate Alabama

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Alabama Small Business Grants

Alaska

Small Business Economic Development Loan Fund

What is it?

In response to the COVID-19 Health Emergency, Division of Investments (INV) has worked in cooperation with the United State Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration (EDA) to add additional capital for the COVID-19 Health Emergency and increased flexibility to the terms of the Small Business Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund (SBED). The goal of these efforts is to make the fund more accessible to Alaska’s small businesses during these challenging times

Where do you Apply?

https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/inv/LoanPrograms/SmallBusinessDevelopment.aspx

Micro Loan Program

What is it?

To promote economic development in Alaska by helping small businesses access needed capital.

Where do you Apply?

https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/inv/LoanPrograms/Microloan.aspx 

Mariculture Loan Program

What is it?

Loans may be made for the planning, construction, and operation of a mariculture business. 

Where do you Apply?

https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/inv/LoanPrograms/Mariculture.aspx

Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans

What is it?

Applicants may be an individual, partnership, LLC, for-profit or non-profit corporation, cooperative, or Alaska Native entity. The project must be in a rural area or city of less than 50,000 population.

Loan guarantees of up to 90% of the loan amount. Loans may be up to $25,000,000. Loans can be used for financing business construction, conversion, and modernization as well as for equipment, facilities, machinery, supplies, debt restructure, transfer of ownership, and working capital. Projects which create or save jobs have the highest priority. The borrower works with a lender, then the borrower and lender jointly apply for a loan guarantee. There is a one-time loan guarantee fee of 1% or 2% and an annual servicing fee (currently 0.25%).

Where do you Apply?

Contact Information
Rural Development
U.S. Department of Agriculture
800 W. Evergreen, Suite 201
Palmer, AK 99645
Phone: (907) 761-7722
Fax: (907) 761-7793
Web site: USDA Rural Development

 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Alaska Small Business Grants

 

Arizona

Arizona Community Foundation Grants

What is it?

The Arizona Community Foundation awards grants through several competitive application processes each year, most of them online.

Where do you Apply?

https://www.azfoundation.org/Grants-Loans/Current-Grant-Opportunities 

 

AZ Step Program

What is it?

Funded in part through a grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and matching funds contributed by the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), the ACA runs Arizona’s State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). AZSTEP assists Arizona small businesses to enter export markets for the first time or to expand into new markets. This will enable these businesses (which account for 98% of the businesses in Arizona) to increase their revenues via international sales and to thereby be even more significant engines for job creation and economic growth in Arizona.

Where do you Apply?

STEP Grant Program Available for Small Businesses | Arizona Commerce Authority

 

EMERGEAZ Fast Grant Round II

What is it?

The Arizona Governor’s Office, Arizona Commerce Authority, invisionAZ and StartupAZ partnered to offer financial support to the Arizona startups through the second round of EMERGEAZ Fast Grant. The grant is designed to address the impacts of the pandemic and provide resources to entrepreneurs and startups with emerging technologies designed to address current and future economic, health, or societal challenges. There is a total of $1.5 million in funding. Grants will be awarded in amounts ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 on a rolling basis until the fund is entirely administered.

Where do you Apply?

https://www.azcommerce.com/covid-19/financial-resources/emergeaz-fast-grant-round-ii/ 

Growth Partners Arizona Small Business Success Loan

What is it?

Small Business Success Loans are for small businesses that need to borrow larger loan amounts for growth and expansion, equipment, long-term working capital, tenant improvements and consolidation of more expensive debt. This loan ranges from $10,000 – $75,000 with terms from six months to five years.

Where do you Apply?

Growth Partners Arizona Small Business Success Loan

Chicanos por la Causa Préstamos 

What is it?

The Chicanos por la causa Préstamos división, a Community Development Financial Institution (CFDI), is offering a microloan of up to $25,000 for payroll, rent and monthly liabilities. The first six payments will be paid (both principal and interest) directly by The SBA. The remaining balance will be amortized over a 6-12 month term based on repayment ability. There is a 3% loan origination fee and the interest rate for this loan is 6.5%.

Where do you Apply?

https://www.azcommerce.com/covid-19/financial-resources/chicanos-por-la-causa-prestamos/ 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Arizona Small Business Grants

Arkansas

Arkansas has no locally funded programs but we did find this list of relevant resources in the area

https://www.arkansasedc.com/business-resources/small-business-entrepreneurship-development/small-business-funding 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Arkansas Small Business Grants 2022/2023

California

California Rebuilding Fund

What is it?

This program provides loans of up to $100,000 or 100 percent of a business’ average monthly revenues for three months prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, whichever amount is lower

Who Can Apply?

Businesses that employ 50 or less full-time equivalent employees and had gross revenues of less than $2.5 million or below in 2019 are eligible. Businesses also must have suffered a direct economic hardship as a result of COVID-19 that materially affected operations to be eligible.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
www.connect2capital.com/p/californiarebuildingfund/

Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program

What is it?

The Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program allows access to capital for small businesses that do not qualify for federal disaster funds, including businesses in low-wealth and immigrant communities.

Who can Apply

Businesses located in California with 1-750 or fewer employees that have been negatively affected by COVID-19, as well as eligible nonprofit organizations, may qualify.

Where do you Apply?

Find a participating lender at ibank.ca.gov/small-business/participating-lenders/, or email the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank’s Small Business Finance Center at [email protected].

California Micro Businesses Covid 19 Relief Grant Program

What is it?

The California Microbusiness COVID-19 Relief Grant is administered by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA). The Program provides competitive micro grants of $2,500 to eligible microbusinesses impacted by COVID-19 and the related health and safety restrictions. Amounts available for each County are based on population as determined from the latest population estimates from the California Department of Finance. The role of grantmaking entities was granted to County government agencies or a consortium of nonprofits through two rounds of applications.

How to apply

Visit https://www.canva.com/design/DAE3VZBf6PY/RvMNyR1Ts_RXMicPMiwivA/view?utm_content=DAE3VZBf6PY&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=sharebutton

Click the arrow pointing right, then select your county and follow the text on where to apply for this $2500 Grant.

California Dream Fund

What is it?

The California Dream Fund is a one-time $35 million grant program to seed entrepreneurship and small business creation in the State of California. New entrepreneurs and small business owners will complete an intensive training program through select participating centers of the Technical Assistance Expansion Program (TAEP). Following successful completion of the training and consulting program, new businesses will be eligible to apply for a microgrant of up to $10,000.

How to Apply

California Dream Fund Program 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. These state loan programs include: The California Rebuilding Fund, Loan Guarantee Program, Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Financing, and California Capital Access Program.

State Loan Programs | California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA)

Other Valuable State Resources

Local funding opportunities are frequently established by county and city agencies. When looking for funding opportunities from local agencies, the county or city Economic Development Agency or Chamber of Commerce is a great resource to get started.

The network of California supported Small Business Technical Assistance Centers can also assist with identifying local programs available from your local city or county agencies. We recommend connecting with a small business advisor in your area to learn more about local funding opportunities.

CalOSBA Technical Assistance 

For Women in California Only

Amber Grants

About the Amber Grant

WomensNet founded the “Amber Grant” in 1998. The grant was set up with one goal in mind: to honor the memory of a very special young woman, Amber Wigdahl, who died at just 19 years old — before realizing her business dreams.

Today, WomensNet carries on that tradition, proudly giving away at least $30,000 every month in Amber Grant money. In recognition of the diversity of businesses owned by women, we’ve also expanded our grant-giving to include “Marketing Grants,” “Business Category Grants,” as well as two “$25,000 Year End Grants.” 

The Amber Grant | Grants for Women in Business

City Specific Grant Programs

Anaheim

Business Loans and Grants | Anaheim, CA – Official Website

Chino hills

Business Grant Programs | Chino Hills, CA – Official Website

Oceanside

City of Oceanside, California – Small Business Grants

Orange County

Orange County Microbusiness Grants | OC One-Stop Centers

San Diego

Small Business Stimulus Grant

San Francisco

Find a grant for your small business | San Francisco

San Joaquin County

Grants

Colorado

CLIMBER Loans

What is it?

The CLIMBER (Colorado Loans to Increase Mainstreet Business Economic Recovery) Loan Fund provides up to $250 million in working capital loans to Colorado small businesses negatively impacted by the pandemic through 2023. It will promote small businesses recovery, save jobs, and help support the Colorado economy.

Where do you Apply?

CLIMBER (Colorado

Colorado Revolving Loan Fund

What is it?

The Colorado Revolving Loan Fund provides loans that help small to medium-sized Colorado businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. These loans range from $5,000 to $750,000. These loans are intended to provide startup and working capital that will help create and retain jobs across the state of Colorado.

The maximum interest rate is 10%, and the expected average interest rate of these loans is 4%. Loans may be character-based and may have terms up to 20 years based on the type of loan.

Where do you Apply?

Colorado Revolving Loan Fund

Colorado Microloans

What is it?

Colorado Microloans range from $5,000 to $50,000 to help start-ups and entrepreneurial small businesses that are underserved by traditional debt markets. Preference is given to businesses in rural areas. These small, character-based loans have terms up to eight years. The maximum interest rate is the prime rate plus 2%.

Where do you Apply?

 https://oedit.colorado.gov/colorado-microloans 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Colorado Small Business Grants

Connecticut

The Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund 

What is it?

The Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund gives small business owners access to flexible funding for capital expenditures and working capital and connects them with support services. It’s a personal, equitable approach to lending, because business owners are more than just numbers on a spreadsheet.

Small businesses and nonprofits can borrow between $5,000 and $500,000 depending on eligibility and need, and can choose how they spend the money — on equipment, payroll, utilities & rent, supplies, marketing & advertising, eligible refinancing, building renovations and other expenses. Loans are not forgivable. Businesses will need to pay back the full amount of the loan with interest over a 60- or 72-month term.

Where do you Apply?

Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund

Connecticut Center For Advanced Technology

What is it?

CCAT provides grants to start-up companies that are housed in Connecticut incubator facilities through the Small Business Incubator Grant Program.

Where do you Apply?

Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, Inc.

Community Economic Development Fund

What is it?

Provides loans and technical assistance to small businesses. 

Who can Apply

Applicants must create or retain jobs and must typically be a “traded sector business”​ (as defined in ORS 284.550) in manufacturing, processing or distribution. The program gives preference to projects located in rural and distressed areas and to small businesses with fewer than 100 employees.​

Where do you Apply?

https://www.cedf.com/ 

Connecticut Community Investment Corp

What is it?

Provides access to capital that may not be available elsewhere as well as financing opportunities for expanding businesses looking to purchase real estate and/or machinery and equipment. 

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
https://ciclending.com/ 

Connecticut Small Business Recovery Grant

What is it?

LISC will provide grants of up to $5,000 to businesses facing immediate financial pressure because of COVID-19—especially entrepreneurs of color, women- and veteran-owned businesses, and other enterprises in historically underserved communities who don’t have access to flexible, affordable capital.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
https://www.lisc.org/connecticut-statewide/covid-19-resources/small-business-recovery-grants/ 

Hartford Only

Hartford Economic Development Corporation (HEDCO) and Greater Hartford Business Development Center (GHBDC)

What is it?

Working in tandem to provide small businesses throughout the region with alternative financing. 

Where do you Apply?

https://hedcoinc.com/  

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Connecticut Small Business Grants

Delaware

Edge Grants

Where do you Apply?

https://business.delaware.gov/edge/ 

State Small Business Credit initiative (Opening Soon)

Where do you Apply?

State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) 2.0

Delaware Revolving Loan Fund

What is it?

The City of Delaware has opened a $300,000 revolving loan fund to bolster the city’s small businesses. Any business (or business owner) within city limits is eligible to apply for the low-interest loan program. The fund will be administered by the Economic and Community Development Institute (ECDI), a community microlender that is headquartered in Columbus and serves small businesses throughout the state of Ohio.

Where do you Apply?

https://www.delawaremeansbusiness.com/ecdidelawareloanprogram 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Delaware Small Business Grants

Florida

Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program

What is it?

The Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan program provides short-term, zero-interest working capital loans that are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business and when a business has secured longer term recovery funding such as federally or commercially available loans, insurance claims or other resources.

Loans are available up to $50,000 per eligible applicant. Loans made under this program are short-term, personal loans using State of Florida funds – they are not grants and must be repaid. Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loans require repayment by the approved applicant. Owners may utilize funding from longer term financial resources, such as U.S. Small Business Administration economic injury disaster loans, to repay the Emergency Bridge Loan.

Where do you Apply?

https://deosera.force.com/RebuildFloridaBusinessLoanFund/s/loan-programs?program=emergency-bridge-loan 

Rural Community Development Revolving Loan Program

What is it?

The Rural Community Development Revolving Loan Program provides financial assistance to local governments in the form of a loan or loan guarantee for projects that will maintain or create new jobs and increase the economic vitality and diversification of Florida’s rural counties and communities. The program provides loans for uses such as the purchase of equipment; the acquisition, construction or improvement of buildings; and acquisition of land and water/sewer projects.

Where do you Apply?

https://floridajobs.org/community-planning-and-development/Small-and-Minority-Business-Resources/Small-and-Minority-Business-Programs/rural-community-development-revolving-loan-program 

State Small Business Credit Initiative

What is it?

Originally created in 2010 and reauthorized as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) allocates funding through the United States Department of the Treasury (Treasury) to states for their own capital access initiatives. In the coming months, the Department of Economic Opportunity will submit a plan to the Treasury that details how Florida will utilize SSBCI funds to provide access to capital for targeted small business population(s).

Where do you Apply?

Small and Minority Business Programs – FloridaJobs.org

CFNMD Grant

What is it?

CFNMD has available funds to provide loans to Black-owned businesses under the Black Business Loan Program. Under the program, businesses can qualify for loans between $10,000 – $100,000, which can be financed for a term of up to five years. 

Where do you Apply?

https://www.cfnmd.org/apply 

Microfinance Guarantee Program

What is it?

The purpose of the Microfinance Guarantee Program is to improve the ability of entrepreneurs and small businesses to access capital offering loan guarantees to lenders that extend credit.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
Microfinance Guarantee Program – FloridaJobs.org

The USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program

What is it?

The USDA’s Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program offers grants to public entities to offer training and technical support to small businesses with fewer than 50 new workers and less than $1 million in gross revenue. Unlike many of the other grants on this list, the USDA Rural Business Enterprise Grant is awarded to public entities, such as towns, state agencies, nonprofits or universities, which then use the grant to provide support to local small businesses within rural communities

Where do you Apply?

MBDA Grants | Minority Business Development Agency

Batmasian Family Grant

What is it?

A total of $150,000 will be awarded to 12 entrepreneurs and businesses ranging from $25,000 (1st place), $20,000 (2nd place), $15,000 (3rd place), $10,000 for each of the remaining 9 top finalists.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here: Batmasian Family Grant 

City of St. Petersburg 

SMALL BUSINESS RESILIENCE AND RETENTION PACKAGE

What is it?

In response to the drastic change in the business environment stemming from the pandemic, the City of St. Petersburg has developed a new non-profit and small business incentive package in support of the sustained success of St. Pete’s health, local economy, and cultural landscape. Through this $2,536,000 funding package, the City’s goal is to provide general economic stimulus and ongoing support to businesses overcoming the longstanding impacts of COVID-19 with an emphasis on business retention and resiliency efforts.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
Small Business Resilience and Retention Package

Minority Owned Business Grant

$500 Micro-Grant for Minority Women-Owned Small Businesses

Where do you Apply?

https://www.axishelps.org/business/her-rise-grant 

Grants Up to $2,000 for Black-Owned Small Businesses

Where do you Apply?

https://www.axishelps.org/business/wish-local 

Grants for black owned businesses

What is it?

Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust’s $5,000 Minority Small Black Business Capitalization Program aims to create access to capital for Black entrepreneurs

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
Grants available for small to medium businesses

Grants for Female Run Businesses

Where do you Apply?

$10,000 Grant for Female Business Owners

Black Business Loan Program

What is it?

The Black Business Loan Program provides loans, loan guarantees, or investments through Loan Administrators to black business enterprises that cannot otherwise obtain capital through conventional lending institutions but who could otherwise compete successfully in the private sector.

If the Black Business Loan Program is appropriated funds in a fiscal year by the Florida Legislature, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) will distribute an equal amount of the appropriation to the Loan Administrators that have been certified for that fiscal year.

Where do you Apply?

Loan Programs – Miami Bayside Foundation

Amazon Grant For Black Owned Businesses

What is it?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is helping to fund grants of $10,000 to select Black-owned businesses participating in Amazon’s Black Business Accelerator (BBA) to help address their immediate needs and assist with recovery and revival in the wake of the pandemic. These grants will be administered by Hello Alice.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
https://app.helloalice.com/communities/amazon-black-business-accelerator/applications/amazon-s-black-business-accelerator-grant?modal=true 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Florida Small Business Grants

Georgia

Invest in Atlanta

Where do you Apply?

Helping businesses every step of the way.

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Georgia Small Business Grants 2022/2023

Hawaii

Hawaii Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR)

What is it?
A $2.2 billion three-phased Federal program that provides small businesses the opportunity to win federal R&D awards. Hawaii-based companies that receive federal Phase I feasibility study SBIR awards can apply for funds from HTDC’s Hawaii SBIR Matching Grant program. The matching grants provide up to 50% of the Phase I award to assist companies with enhancing their Phase I project development, compete for the more lucrative Phase II awards to typically conduct prototype development, and ultimately reach successful commercialization.  Hawaii-based companies new to SBIR can apply for funds from HTDC’s Hawaii SBIR Phase 0 Grant program. The grant provides up to $3,000 to companies submitting a competitive Phase I SBIR application. The purpose of the Phase 0 Grant is to assist applicants strengthen their proposal, e.g. through professional grant writing assistance. This grant is open to Hawaii companies who have: a) Submitted fewer than three SBIR applications and b) demonstrate financial need.

Where do you Apply?

Funding to Help Hawaii Businesses – HTDC

Hawaii Angels Venture Capital Group

Where do you Apply?

https://www.hawaiiangels.org/ and https://hvca.org/

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Hawaii Small Business Grants

Idaho

A listing of grant programs offered through the Idaho Commerce dept

Grants – Idaho Commerce

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Idaho Small Business Grants

Illinois

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Illinois Small Business Grants

Indiana

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Indiana Small Business Grants

Iowa

Iowa’s Demonstration Fund Application

What is it?
The Proof of Commercial Relevance (POCR) Fund provides financial assistance to businesses that are pursuing proof of marketability of a technology. The fund is designed to assist businesses that have developed new technologies and who have completed the proof of concept stage and are now ready to define the market for the product and further perfect the product to meet the market needs. Awards of up to $25,000 in the form of a grant can be made. For every two dollars awarded by the state, a one dollar match from the company is required

Where do you Apply?

Proof of Commercial Relevance | Iowa Economic Development Authority

Innovation Acceleration Fund

What is it?

promotes the formation and growth of businesses that engage in the transfer of technology into competitive, profitable companies that will create high-paying jobs. The fund provides financing to eligible businesses through three programs:

Where do you Apply?

Begin at https://www.iowaeda.com/innovate/innovation-acceleration-fund/ 

Funding programs through Iowa state university

Where do you Apply?

Business Funding Assistance – CIRAS | Iowa State

Child Care Business Grants

Where do you Apply?

Child Care Grants | Future Ready Iowa

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Iowa Small Business Grants

Kansas

Business Incentives and Services

What is it?
The state of Kansas offers several programs and services that make locating and expanding in the state a smart decision. Whether you’re an out-of-state company looking for a new home base for your manufacturing operations or corporate headquarters, or you’re an existing Kansas company looking to expand your footprint, we have a variety of programs that can be tailored to meet your needs.

Where do you Apply?

Business Incentives and Services – Kansas Department of Commerce

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Kansas Small Business Grants 2022/2023

Kentucky

Kentucky Small Business Tax Credit

What is it?
If your small business has hired at least one new full-time position and invested in qualifying equipment, you could be eligible for a tax credit.

Where do you Apply?

The Kentucky Small Business Tax Credit Program (KSBTC)

Small Business Loans

What is it?

Small businesses engaged in manufacturing, agribusiness, or service and technology may be eligible for loans to acquire land and buildings, purchase and install equipment, or for working capital.

Where do you Apply?

KEDFA Small Business Loans

Kentucky Investment Fund Act

What is it?

The Kentucky Investment Fund Act offers a 40 percent tax credit to certain personal and corporate investors in approved investment funds.

Where do you Apply?

Kentucky Investment Fund Act (KIFA)

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Kentucky Small Business Grants 2022/2023

Louisiana

Small Business Assistance

What is it?
LDEQ’s Small Business Assistance Program (SBAP) provides environmental regulatory assistance and information to small businesses and communities.

A small business is defined as:

  1. 100 or fewer employees
  2. independently owned – not dominant in the field
  3. not a major facility
  4. not a publicly traded company

SBAP operates in accordance with the Confidentiality option provided by the EPA Enforcement Response Policy, effective August 12, 1994, regarding Section 507 of the Clean Air Act. Under this policy, violations detected through assistance will be kept confidential.

Where do you Apply?

Small Business Assistance | Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality

 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Louisiana Small Business Grants

Maine

Thrive Maine: Pandemic Recovery Business Loan Program

What is it?
Governor Janet Mills is dedicating $58 million through her Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan to provide forgivable loans to small businesses in Maine to support their continued economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new “Thrive Maine” program, administered by the Finance Authority of Maine, (FAME) will offer forgivable loans to eligible Maine small businesses who experienced losses, increased costs, or market interruptions as a result of the pandemic. Small businesses may apply for loans of up to $2 million. If businesses are approved and continue to meet program terms, loans may be fully forgiven over a four year period.

Where do you Apply?

Thrive Maine: Pandemic Recovery Forgivable Business Loan Program – FAME Maine

Grow Maine: State Small Business Credit Initiative

What is it?

Grow Maine, administered by FAME in conjunction with various statewide lending partners, will provide up to $62 million of State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funding to eligible Maine businesses. Eligible businesses include for-profit and nonprofit companies with fewer than 500 employees. Funding will be available through FAME and its intermediary partners via loan guarantees, direct loans, and equity capital. Loans up to $5 million will be available (not to exceed $20 million per project) and interest rates will be set by the participating lending institution. Grow Maine is intended to provide broad access to capital to help Maine businesses grow and provide jobs for Maine people that will have long-term positive effects on Maine’s economy.

Where do you Apply?

Grow Maine: Small Business Loan and Capital Program – FAME Maine

Diversity, Equity Inclusion & Belonging Communities of Practice Grant

What is it?

DECD released a grant program to identify and fund up to three (3) Communities of Practice (COP) in Maine to design and execute a meaningful, impactful and outcome-based regional or local action plan to support the economic recovery of at least one key industry through a diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging lens. Maine’s key industries include, but are not limited to: Health Care & Social Assistance; Construction, Trade, Logistics; Manufacturing; Education & Child Care; Agriculture, Fishing, & Forestry; Information and Clean Energy.

Where do you Apply?

Grant RFPs and RFAs | Division of Procurement Services

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Maine Small Business Grants

Maryland

Available Incentive Programs

What is it?
Maryland Department of Commerce and other partner organizations throughout the state offer Maryland companies a variety of incentive and funding programs. More information about available incentives, including an incentives map.

Where do you Apply?

Funding & Incentives

Small, Minority and Women-Owned Business

What is it?

Targeted to help these business owners in the areas surrounding Maryland’s six casinos.

Where do you Apply?

Small, Minority and Women-Owned Business Account – Video Lottery Terminal Fund (VLT)

Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority (MSBDFA)

What is it?

Offers a variety of financing programs to promote the viability and expansion of economically and socially disadvantaged entrepreneur owned businesses.

Where do you Apply?

Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority (MSBDFA)

Minority Business Pre-Seed Fund (MBPF)

What is it?

Intended to address the needs of minority entrepreneurs in Maryland and administered by TEDCO. If you have a viable business opportunity involving a technology-based idea, this program will make investments up to $40,000 towards developing it into a product to be tested with potential users.

Where do you Apply?

Social Impact Funds | TEDCO

Neighborhood BusinessWorks

What is it?

The Neighborhood BusinessWorks loan program provides flexible financing to small businesses and nonprofits who are located in locally designated neighborhood revitalization areas throughout Maryland.

Where do you Apply?

Neighborhood BusinessWorks

 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Maryland Small Business Grants

Massachusetts

EOHED Programs and Grants – Business and Innovation

What is it?
Massachusetts is an attractive and competitive home for a diverse set of industries. By focusing on competitiveness and offering dedicated support for small businesses, the Baker-Polito Administration seeks to enable robust economic growth across communities, businesses, and sectors.

Where do you Apply?

EOHED Programs and Grants – Business and Innovation | Mass.gov

Massachusetts Growth Capital Lending Products

What is it?

MGCC makes loans to small businesses, as small businesses are instrumental to the economic vitality of the Commonwealth. These loans may be creative or flexible to suit the needs of the borrower.

Where do you Apply?

Small Business Lending | Mass Growth Capital Corp.

MassDevelopment Lending Products

What is it?

MassDevelopment offers a range of loans and guarantees to meet the needs of small businesses. Eligible businesses can apply for financing using the links embedded on the website.

Where do you Apply?

MA Real Estate Loans – MA Business Loans | MassDevelopment

Massachusetts has dozens more grants available through the above linked website. These other grants can be heavily specialized and worth checking if they apply to your business.  It is highly competitive with other states.

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Massachusetts Government Grants 2022/2023

Michigan

Assisting Communities in Revitalizing Commercial Districts

What is it?
In FY20, Match on Main through MEDC’s Community Development team awarded 30 grants, supporting 307 main street businesses.

Where do you Apply?

Michigan Economic Development Corporation

Early-Stage Funding for Startups

What is it?

The Entrepreneurship & Innovation Program has led to over 1,300 high-tech companies being formed in Michigan, and more than 20,000 new full time equivalent jobs.

Where do you Apply?

Entrepreneurial Resources in Michigan

Business Grants To Help Small Businesses Grow Export Activities

What is it?

In FY20, MEDC’s International Trade Program assisted 530 Michigan companies to increase their export sales to 121 countries.

Where do you Apply?

International Trade services with MEDC | Michigan Business

Providing Economic Relief

What is it?

The MEDC launched 23 economic relief programs since March of last year to provide over $240M in vital economic support to small businesses across all 83 Michigan counties. The programs supported more than 25,000 companies and retained over 200,000 jobs with nearly 75% of support going to restaurants, bars, retailers and other service industry small businesses.

Where do you Apply?

MEDC COVID-19 Response

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Michigan Government Grants

Minnesota

Minnesota does not offer small business grants. 

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Minnesota Small Business Grants

Mississippi

Capital Access Contract Loan Program

What is it?
The Capital Access Contract Loan Program is designed to increase the availability of financing for businesses with fewer than 50 full-time employees or socially and economically disadvantaged businesses as designated by the U. S. Small Business Act by providing loans to eligible borrowers who have contracts with public entities and who, for various reasons, might have difficulty in obtaining conventional loans.

Where do you Apply?

Capital Access ContractLoan Program

Small Business Loan Guaranty Program (SBLGP)

What is it?

The Small Business Loan Guaranty Program (SBLGP) provides access to capital for small businesses by providing loan guarantees to banks and other small business lenders. The SBLGP encourages lenders to make term loans or provide lines of credit to new or existing small businesses in a difficult credit environment to help with the development, expansion and retention of Mississippi’s small businesses.

Where do you Apply?

Small Business Loan Guaranty Program

Small Business and Existing Forestry Industry Loan Program

What is it?

The Small Business and Existing Forestry Industry Loan Program encourages the extension of conventional financing, and issues letters of credit by private institutions, to qualified enterprises in the state of Mississippi. Through this program, MDA provides low-interest loans to qualified small businesses or existing companies in the forestry industry.

Where do you Apply?

Small Business and Existing Forestry Industry Loan Program

Minority Surety Bond Guaranty Program

What is it?
The Minority Surety Bond Guaranty Program provides socially and economically disadvantaged minority businesses with technical assistance throughout the construction bonding process and provides eligible businesses with a bond guarantee where necessary. The program aims to increase minority participation in construction and building trade contracts with federal, state and local units of government.

Where do you Apply?

Minority Surety Bond Guaranty Program

Minority Business Micro Loan Program

What is it?

The Minority Business Micro Loan Program provides loans to socially and economically disadvantaged minority- and women-owned businesses as designated by the Mississippi Development Authority’s Minority and Small Business Development Division.

Where do you Apply?

Minority Business Micro Loan Program

Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Loan Program

What is it?

The Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Loan Program provides loans to socially and economically disadvantaged minority- and women-owned businesses as designated by the Mississippi Development Authority’s Minority and Small Business Development Division.

Where do you Apply?

Minority Business Enterprise Loan Program

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Mississippi Government Grants 2022/2023

Missouri

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Missouri Small Business Grants 2022/2023

Montana

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Montana Government Grants 2022/2023

Nebraska

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Nebraska Small Business Grants

Nevada

National Association for the Self Employed (NASE)

What is it?
Apply for a business development grant from the NASE worth up to $4,000!

Where do you Apply?

NASE Membership Options

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Nevada Small Business Grants 2022/2023

New Hampshire

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

New Hampshire Government Grants 2022/2023

New Jersey

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

New Jersey Government Grants

New Mexico

Small Business Recovery Loan Fund

What is it?
The New Mexico Legislature recently expanded the Small Business Recovery Loan Fund to better help businesses experiencing financial hardship caused by the pandemic. More businesses are now eligible to apply for a loan, the loans have more favorable and flexible terms, and businesses that received a Small Business Recovery Loan in 2020 can refinance for a longer term or a bigger loan. 

Where do you Apply?

Small Business Recovery Loan Fund | New Mexico Finance Authority

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

New Mexico Government Grants

New York

Business Pandemic Recovery Initiative

What is it?
Grants, Tax Credits, and Technical Assistance Programs for Businesses Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Where do you Apply?

Business Pandemic Recovery Initiative | Empire State Development

New York State Small Business Seed Funding Grant Program

What is it?

$200 million in grant funding to early stage small and micro businesses and for-profit independent arts and cultural organizations impacted by the pandemic.

Where do you Apply?

New York State Seed Funding Grant Program

COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program

What is it?

$250 million in tax credits to provide financial assistance to New York State small businesses burdened with a range of operational costs stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, from structural changes and building upgrades to health-related supplies and materials.

Where do you Apply?

COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program | Empire State Development

Restaurant Resiliency Program

What is it?

The $250 million COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program provides financial assistance to New York State small businesses burdened with a range of operational costs stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, from structural changes and building upgrades to health-related supplies and materials.  The Program offers qualifying businesses relief from the added economic burden by providing tax credits to help reduce the pandemic-related financial impact.   

Small businesses can receive a tax credit of 50% of qualifying expenses up to a maximum of $25,000 in tax credits based on qualifying expenses of $50,000. 

Where do you Apply?

COVID COST SCREENING

COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program

What is it?

$25 million in grant funding to support restaurants that provide meals to distressed and under-represented communities.

Where do you Apply?

Restaurant Resiliency Program | Agriculture and Markets

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

New York Government Grants

North Carolina

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

North Carolina Government Grants 2022/2023

Grant Opportunities | nc.gov

North Dakota

Accelerated Growth Loan Program

What is it?
The Accelerated Growth Loan Program assists North Dakota-based companies anticipating a period of dynamic growth. These companies have a record of proven operations, experienced management and the ability to generate cash flow but have limited assets for traditional bank financing. The borrower can be any person or entity who owns a North Dakota-based company that anticipates a minimum growth in sales of 15 percent over three years with existing sales of $1.5 million to $10 million annually.

Where do you Apply?

Accelerated Growth Loan Program – Bank of North Dakota

Business Development Loan Program

What is it?

The Business Development Loan Program assists new and existing businesses to obtain loans that have a higher degree of risk than would normally be acceptable to a lending institution. It may be used to start or expand a new business or for refinancing. The business must be located in North Dakota. The financial condition or nature of the industry must lead to a higher credit risk than would normally be acceptable to a lending institution.

Where do you Apply?

Business Development Loan Program – Bank of North Dakota

Mariculture Loan Program

What is it?

Loans may be made for the planning, construction, and operation of a mariculture business. 

Where do you Apply?

https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/inv/LoanPrograms/Mariculture.aspx

Finance and Incentive Programs

What is it?

North Dakota and the Federal government through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Small Business Administration (SBA), and the Economic Development Administration offer many finance and tax incentive programs to support business development investment in North Dakota. In addition to these finance and tax incentive programs presented on the following pages, many jurisdictions have local investment programs available to support economic development expansion in their communities and regions. These programs are accessible through local community economic development corporations and/or regional planning council offices.

Where do you Apply?

Finance and Incentive Programs Available to Support Business Development Projects in North Dakota

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 
North Dakota Government Grants 2022/2023

Ohio

Ohio Micro-Loan Program

What is it?
This loan program is designed to stimulate the growth of new and existing businesses by providing micro-loans at 0% interest. The minimum loan amount is $10,000 to a maximum of $45,000. Loans will be repaid within five years for permanent working capital and seven years for equipment.

Where do you Apply?

Ohio Micro-Loan Program | Development

Women’s Business Enterprise Loan Program

What is it?

This loan program is designed to stimulate the growth of existing women-owned businesses by providing loans at market rate or below market rate interest (currently up to 3%). The minimum loan amount is $45,000 up to a maximum of $500,000. Loans will be repaid within 10 years for equipment and machinery and 15 years for owner-occupied real estate.

Where do you Apply?

Women’s Business Enterprise Loan Program | Development

Workplace Wellness Grant Program

What is it?

Information on Grant: Employers who want to improve the health and wellness of their workers can benefit from this program that assists employers with establishing training and programs to reduce health risk factors to meet the needs of their employees.  No matching funds required.  This grant is to start a new wellness program.

Where do you Apply?

Workplace Wellness Grant Program

Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund

What is it?

Information on Grant: To help restaurants recover in times of critical need, DoorDash has partnered with Hello Alice to create the Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund. The fund supports restaurants impacted by natural disasters like fires, floods and hurricanes, and provides relief through $10,000 grants.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
https://helloalice.com/grants/doordash/

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Ohio Small Business Grants 2022/2023

Oklahoma

Community Development Block Grant

Where do you Apply?

Community Development Block Grant | City of Enid, Oklahoma

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Oklahoma Small Business Grants

Oregon

Export Promotion Program

What is it?
Trade shows offer the opportunity to meet potential buyers, test market interest, and evaluate the competition. A trade mission can be a cost-effective way to meet potential distributors and buyers, secure licensing agreements, and explore joint venture opportunities. The Oregon Export Promotion Program helps Oregon companies access foreign markets and increase exports to existing markets through participation in various trade development activities. 

Who Can Apply?

​​Oregon’s Trade Promotion Grants are awarded to eligible small businesses that meet the U.S. SBA’s definition and can self-certify their eligibility. Small businesses are generally defined as those with 500 or fewer employees. Candidates must evaluate and certify their eligibility by submitting two required SBA forms: Self Certify as a Small Business, and Debarment Certification.  

Additional Qualifying Criteria

  1. At least 75 percent of the business’s total employees must be employed in Oregon; 
  2. The applicant must promote their own export ready product or service that is Oregon manufactured, processed, or value-added; 
  3. The business must commit at least one full-time, U.S. based employee for the duration of the Export Promotion Grant-funded activity; and 
  4. For a trade show, the applicant must actively exhibit (e.g., rent a booth space and attend), pay the trade show organizer directly for the activity, and provide receipts for any allowable expense submitted for reimbursement.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here: Export Promotion Program : State of Oregon

Rural Opportunity Initiative (ROI)

What is it?

The Rural Opportunity Initiative (ROI) is Business Oregon’s strategic effort to empower rural communities to support entrepreneurs and small business growth. ROI helps strengthen and consolidate entrepreneurial ecosystems across Oregon’s rural communities, with an emphasis on diverse and low-income populations.

Where do you Apply?

Begin at Business Oregon : Rural Opportunity Initiative (ROI)

Oregon Business Development Fund (OBDF)

What is it?

The Oregon Business Development Fund (OBDF) is a revolving loan fund that provides fixed-rate term gap financing for land, buildings, equipment, machinery, and permanent working capital. The fund is designed to provide gap financing in conjunction with a traditional lender.

Who can Apply

Applicants must create or retain jobs and must typically be a “traded sector business”​ (as defined in ORS 284.550) in manufacturing, processing or distribution. The program gives preference to projects located in rural and distressed areas and to small businesses with fewer than 100 employees.​

Where do you Apply?

Oregon Business Development Fund (OBDF)

Entrepreneurial Development Loan Fund (EDLF)

What is it?

Created by the Oregon Legislature in 1991, the Entrepreneurial Development Loan Fund provides direct loans to help start-ups, micro-enterprises, and small businesses expand or become established in Oregon. This fund fills a niche not provided through traditional lending markets.

Who Can Apply?

Nearly every type of business is eligible to apply. Participants must meet one of the following criteria:

  1. ​The Applicant must have had total revenues of $1,500,000 or less in the 12 calendar months immediately preceding the date application is made to the Fund for a loan;
  2. The Applicant must have 25 or fewer full-time equivalent employees at the time of application

or

  1. At least 50 percent of the Applicant’s business or proposed business must be owned by an individual or individuals classified as Severely Disabled. 

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
Entrepreneurial Development Loan Fund (EDLF) : State of Oregon

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Oregon Small Business Grants 2022/2023

Pennsylvania

Small Business Advantage Grant

What is it?

The Small Business Advantage Grant provides reimbursement grants ranging from 50% to 80% of eligible project costs to Pennsylvania small businesses to improve energy efficiency or reduce pollution or waste by: upgrading or replacing equipment or supplies; improving processes; or reducing runoff into affected waterways. Maximum grant award amounts will vary from up to $5,000 to up to $8,000, based on the environmental impact of the project and whether the project location is in an Environmental Justice Area in Pennsylvania.

Who Can Apply?

Pennsylvania-based businesses with 100 or fewer full-time employees are eligible. Eligible applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis, and must save the small business a minimum of $500 and at least 20% annually in energy consumption or pollution prevention related expenses (Natural Resource Protection projects are exempt).

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
Single Application for Assistance

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Pennsylvania Government Grants 2022/2023

Rhode Island

Innovate RI Fund

What is it?

Small businesses need capital to innovate, expand and succeed. The Innovate RI Small Business Fund provides grants to assist local entrepreneurs and high-growth start-ups defray the costs of applying for federal SBIR/STTR grants, match Phase I and Phase II awards and hire interns.

The goals of the program are to:

  1. Leverage state funds to encourage and support Rhode Island entrepreneurial participation in the federal SBIR/STTR programs;
  2. Increase the amount of federal research dollars received by Rhode Island firms;
  3. Sustain companies through the early stages of product development;
  4. Encourage the establishment of high potential, high quality, high growth ventures in Rhode Island; and
  5. Enhance the talent pipeline in the life sciences and engineering fields.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the process here: Innovate RI Fund | RI Science & Technology Advisory Council

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Rhode Island Government Grants 2022/2023

South Carolina

Capital Funding Resources

What is it?

South Carolina offers Statewide programs and initiatives to help new and existing businesses thrive. With over 50 available state grants to offer an influx of funding and capital. 

Who Can Apply?

Any business located specifically and operating in South Carolina

Where do you Apply?

Begin the process here:
Capital Funding Resources | South Carolina Business Development

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

South Carolina Small Business Grants

County Specific Grant Programs

Beaufort County Small and Minority Business Program

What is it?

Beaufort County wishes to ensure that those businesses owned and operated by minorities are afforded the opportunity to fully participate in its overall procurement process for goods and services.  Further, Beaufort County seeks to ensure that small businesses are likewise afforded the same opportunity as minority businesses to participate.  Based on scope of work or services, solicitations may require bidders or proposers to meet certain compliance requirements of Beaufort County’s “Small and Minority Business Participation Program”, unless self-performing one hundred percent (100%), including specific pre-award good faith outreach efforts and post-award subcontracting reporting.

Who Can Apply?

Minority business owners in Beaufort County. 

Where do you Apply?

Begin the application process here:
Small and Minority Business Participation

South Dakota

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

South Dakota Small Business Grants

Tennessee

Tennessee State Grant Funding

What is it?

The State of Tennessee offers a vast array of grant funding opportunities. Whether it is improving the environment or creating jobs, these grant programs are committed to improving the lives of Tennesseans. This page details competitive grant funding opportunities offered by Tennessee state agencies.

Potential grantees are encouraged to view funding opportunities by state agencies. All applications and selections are made by the state agency staff for the applicable program. While this page is updated periodically, potential grantees are encouraged to contact state agencies directly as funding opportunities often change.

Where do you Apply?

Grant Funding Information

Select the category of business that fits you best.

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Tennessee Small Business Grants 2022/2023

Texas

Texas Workforce Training Grants

What is it?

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) offers the “Skills for Small Business” grant. Skills for Small Business finances the design and implementation of customized job training programs for newly hired employees of small businesses, successfully merging small business needs and local customized training opportunities into a winning formula for putting people to work in Texas.

The program pays up to $1,800 for each new employee being trained and $900 for existing employees per 12-month period.

Who Can Apply?

Businesses that employ 99 or less full-time equivalent employees and must not be in the business of Childcare.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
Skills for Small Business for Employers — TWC

BCL of Texas

What is it?

BCL of Texas supports Texans to acquire wealth-building assets, such as homeownership and entrepreneurship, with the financial tools and education necessary to build personal net worth. With an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, we serve communities of color, women, veterans, rural communities, and low and moderate income individuals, families, and small business owners.

Who can Apply

Minority and women-owned businesses as well as new business owners within two years of opening. Some additional programs are available such as for business in communities with populations under 50,000.

Where do you Apply?

Begin at Borrow for Your Business – Business & Community Lenders of Texas | Austin and Dallas

Young Farmer Grant Program

What is it?

The purpose of the Young Farmer Grant is to grow and support Texas agriculture. This program has a 1:1 match requirement, which means the farmer must match the grant amount. For example, if the total project costs $20,000, the farmer must raise $10,000 that the grant will match.

Who can Apply

It’s open to anyone between the ages of 18 and 45

Where do you Apply?

Young Farmer Grant

JUST – Grants and Training for Women

What is it?

JUST is a non-profit financial platform working to close the racial wealth gap by investing in ambitious Texas women through capital, peer coaching & community.

Who Can Apply?

Businesses of any size, owned exclusively by women.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
https://hellojust.com/WebToLeadJUST.php

People Fund Small Business/Start-Up Loans

What is it?

PeopleFund’s small business loans help entrepreneurs enhance their businesses and keep local economies growing. With financing available for equipment purchases, permanent working capital term loans, and revolving lines of credit, we provide access to capital with low down payment or equity contribution, flexible underwriting, no prepayment penalties, and a lending team dedicated to helping you succeed through one-on-one training and business assistance & education.

Who Can Apply?

They focus on women, minorities, veterans, and businesses in low to moderate-income areas. No specific exclusions are listed outside of being a small business which Texas defines as a business employing less than 100 people.

Where do you Apply?

Get a Loan – PeopleFund

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Texas Small Business Grants 2022/2023

City Specific Grant Programs

City of Dallas Small Business Continuity Fund (SBCF) 

What is it?

The Small Business Continuity Fund program was designed to assist low-to-moderate (LMI) microenterprise business owners (5 or fewer employees) or small businesses with 50 or fewer employees that retain LMI workers within the City of Dallas.

Funding: $5 million of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding (as provided by the CARES Act). Plus an additional $2 million of CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) funding.

Maximum loan amount: $50,000

Maximum grant amount: $15,000

Who Can Apply?

Business with less than 50 employees or revenue under $1.5 million. Microbusinesses are defined as a business with 5 or fewer employees, including the business owner. 

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
Skills for Small Business for Employers — TWC

City of Austin Zero Waste Business Rebate 

What is it?

The City of Austin’s Zero Waste Business Rebate is an incentive for businesses to expand and improve their waste reduction and diversion programs. Eligible businesses can receive up to $3,000 for reducing waste beyond the minimum requirements of the Universal Recycling Ordinance.

Who Can Apply?

The rebate is available to commercial businesses, nonprofits and multifamily properties that meet all of the following criteria:

  1. Affected by, and in compliance with, the Universal Recycling Ordinance.
  2. Located within the Austin City Limits, in compliance with Austin City Code, and all tax accounts are in good standing.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here: Zero Waste Business Rebate | AustinTexas.gov

Utah

EVENT SERVICE INDUSTRY REVITALIZATION GRANT

What is it?

The Utah Legislature authorized $4,500,000 to Utah-based privately owned event equipment or service providers that primarily work off-premise, and were negatively impacted by COVID-19. The new program is called the Event Service Industry Revitalization Grant.

The new grant will support businesses that were not adequately covered by previous state-sponsored COVID-19 programs. If the company previously received funding from the federal Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, it does not qualify for the state’s new Event Service Industry Revitalization Grant.

Who Can Apply?

For-profit and nonprofit entities:

  1. Event equipment or service providers, operating primarily off-premise
  2. Must have experienced at least a 30% quarterly loss in revenue (see calculation below)
  3. Be registered with the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code (if required)
  4. Claim Utah as its headquarters and principal place of business
  5. Must have been an active business in Utah on or before Jan. 1, 2019
  6. Must not have changed ownership since Jan. 1, 2019
  7. Have not ceased operations
  8. Have not initiated bankruptcy proceedings
  9. Have not received a Shuttered Venue Operators Grant
  10. Have not been disbarred or suspended from receiving federal funds
  11. Are not a promoter, artist manager, or venue owner, and does not share ownership with a promotion, artist management, or venue entity

Note: Government entities do not qualify.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
Event Service Industry Revitalization Grant

RURAL EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE GRANT

What is it?

The Rural Employment Development Incentive (REDI) grant is designed for businesses creating new high-paying jobs in rural Utah communities. The grant may be available to businesses creating new employment positions in rural counties or in *cities/towns with a population of 10,000 or less in Weber, Davis, Utah, and Washington counties.

New jobs can be remote, online, in a satellite hub/office space, or physically located in the same county as the business. Based on the employee’s work location, a business may receive up to $6,000 for each new position.

Who can Apply

A business considering the REDI grant must apply for and receive approval through the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (Go Utah) in advance of creating any new position(s).

Newly created positions:

  1. will be filled by full-time employees
  2. will exist for at least 12 consecutive months
  3. will pay at least 110% of the county’s average wage
  4. may not be within a business primarily engaged in construction, retail, staffing or public utilities

Where do you Apply?

Begin at Rural Employment Development Incentive (REDI) Grant

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Utah Small Business Grants 2022/2023

City Specific Grant Programs

Salt Lake City Community Grant Program

What is it?

Salt Lake City’s Community Grant Program was created to provide limited, one-time financial assistance to eligible small businesses, artists, artisans, creatives, and nonprofits (as individual businesses) in Salt Lake City that were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic or related shutdowns. The Community Grant Program is funded through ARPA, and run by the Salt Lake City Department of Economic Development. Grants are intended to help the economic health and welfare of the City.

Who Can Apply?

  1. Business is physically located and licensed to do business* in Salt Lake City, and was in operation before January 1, 2020 *if you are a home-based business, artist or musician, a business license is not required
  2. Business has less than 50 full-time employees.
  3. Business can show it was negatively impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic or the related shutdowns.
  4. Business is not facing any pending litigation or legal action.
  5. Business is not suspended or restricted from the use of federal funds.
  6. Business is not a franchise that is a subsidiary of a larger corporation.
  7. Business is not a multinational or publicly traded business.
  8. Business is not a chain (unless most locations are in Salt Lake City).
  9. Business is not owned by a City employee, elected, or appointed official.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here:
Community Grants Program | Department of Economic Development

City of Provo Small Business Recovery-Relief Program

What is it?

Provo City has received CDBG-CV grant funds to assist small businesses that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Financial assistance is available to businesses to help cover operating costs.

Eligible businesses may be awarded up to three months of operational costs not to exceed $15,000. Permitted uses are rent/mortgage, payroll, utilities, or similar ordinary operational costs. Construction projects or equipment purchases are not eligible.

Who Can Apply?

  1. For-profit businesses located in Provo City with no more than 50 employees. (sole proprietorships, corporations, limited liability corporations and subchapter S corporations).
  2. Must provide documented loss of revenue due to COVID-19 requirements.
  3. In business since December 31, 2019.
  4. Business must be still operational at time of application.
  5. Applicant is 51% + majority owner of the business.
  6. Business commits to retain/rehire full-time job(s) held by a low-/mod-income (LMI) individual(s), and to keep it available for a LMI individual(s) for at least one year after award is made and the loan is closed.
  7. Where multiple jobs are retained, at least 51% are held by LMI individuals.
  8. Owner has a valid SS #, EIN & DUNS, CAGE # and Business Bank Account.
  9. Owner/Applicant is not currently in bankruptcy.
  10. Owner/Applicant is currently with property taxes and City fees.
  11. Business has active liability insurance.
  12. Cannot have an application pending for a loan or grant that is duplicative of the purpose and amounts applied for through this program.
  13. Cannot have received a loan or grant from Feb. 15, 2020 to date, duplicative of the purpose and amounts applied for here.
  14. Cannot have a conflict of interest with Provo City.
  15. Cannot have average annual revenue of more than $2M USD.
  16. Cannot have a net value of more than $5M USD.
  17. Cannot be exclusively a self-employed person or independent contractor.

Where do you Apply?

Begin the pre-application process here: Small Business Recovery-Relief Program | City of Provo, UT

Vermont

Elevate Vermont

What is it?

Elevate Vermont is a technology-based economic development program designed to catalyze growth in Vermont’s high tech business sector through increased access to targeted technical and research assistance. A mix of technical assistance and grant matching will be available for: 

  1. One-on-one professional support to apply for Federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants,  
  2. Matching funds which can be used to offset costs related to commercializing a new product that cannot be supported with Federal SBIR/STTR funds, such as sales and marketing expenses, and 
  3. Access to research institutions that can help solve product development challenges. 

Who Can Apply?

  1. Headquartered in Vermont 
  2. Completed and approved program application 

Where do you Apply?

Elevate Vermont | Agency of Commerce and Community Development

Vermont Employment Growth Incentive

What is it?

The State of Vermont offers an economic incentive for business recruitment, growth and expansion. The Vermont Employment Growth Incentive (VEGI) program provides cash payments to businesses that have been authorized to earn the incentive and who then meet performance requirements. The value of each payment is based on the revenue return generated to the State by prospective qualifying jobs, payroll creation, and capital investments.

The VEGI program provides incentives from the State of Vermont to encourage prospective economic activity in Vermont that is beyond a business’s organic growth—growth that would not occur, would not occur in Vermont, or would occur in a significantly less desirable manner without the incentive. The economic activity can be generated by a Vermont company, a Vermont division adding new qualifying employees, a company that is considering Vermont as a new location, or a start-up business. Once authorized, the incentives are earned and installments paid if performance requirements are met and maintained.

Who can Apply

There are no restrictions on the type or size of company that can apply or the number of jobs that must be created. Applicants must be able to show that the activity as proposed would not occur, or would occur in a significantly different manner, unless the incentive is approved and that new, qualifying jobs will be created at a level beyond the normal or “background growth” for the company’s industry.

Where do you Apply?

Begin at Vermont Employment Growth Incentive | Agency of Commerce and Community Development

Worker Relocation Grant Program

What is it?

Since 2018, the Vermont Legislature has created three different relocation incentives, awarding $1,780,000 to attract new residents to the state and grow the workforce and provide support to Vermont employers. In total, these three programs have assisted 435 new workers and their families to live and work in Vermont.  

These new Vermonters are enjoying all this little state has to offer; some are returning to live closer to friends and family while others are enjoying access to outdoor recreation and a safe environment to raise a family. Whether leaving the big city to live and work remotely or relocating to work for one of Vermont’s Innovative businesses, these workers are enjoying all the perks of living in the Green Mountain State. All funding made available by these three programs has been awarded. 

To build upon the success of previous efforts, the Vermont Legislature passed new legislation in 2022 to create a fourth relocation program. The new program is in development and the details will be different from previous programs.

Where do you Apply?

Subscribe to the 802+You newsletter to receive notification as more information becomes available.

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Vermont Small Business Grants

Vermont offers information about how businesses can obtain additional capital, regardless of the stage your business is currently in or your expected growth. Read here for more information:

Investment Capital | Agency of Commerce and Community Development

Other Valuable State Resources

Local funding opportunities are frequently established by county and city agencies. When looking for funding opportunities from local agencies, the county or city Economic Development Agency or Chamber of Commerce is a great resource to get started.

The state of Vermont updates their Grants on a monthly and yearly basis; frequently checking on the state grant page is vital.

Funding and Incentives | Agency of Commerce and Community Development

City Specific Grant Programs

City of Burlington Small Business Grants

What is it?

The City of Burlington has opened an application program for small businesses to apply to receive grant allocations from a pool of federal CDBG funds.

The funds may be used to cover business operations, including but not limited to rent, utilities, and working capital.

Who Can Apply?

The funds are available to low- and moderate- income business owners, and businesses trying to retain jobs for low- and moderate-income workers.

Where do you Apply?

Apply for Small Business Grants | City of Burlington, Vermont

Virginia

Southern Opportunity and Resilience (SOAR)

What is it?

The Southern Opportunity and Resilience (SOAR) Fund is a new program built to support small businesses and nonprofits across the South and Southeast to help them navigate and rebuild from the COVID-19 crisis.

Who Can Apply?

The following criteria is the minimum required for a business or non-profit to be considered eligible for a loan under this program:

  1. The business or non-profit must employ 50 or fewer full-time equivalent (FTE) employees;
  2. The business or non-profit must have suffered a direct economic disruption as a result of COVID-19 in a way that has materially impacted operations;
  3. The business or non-profit must have been in operation since at least September 2019, unless the business is a for-profit business and meets one of the following additional criteria:
    1. The business can demonstrate three or more years of operating experience in the industry through previous ownership or management; or
    2. The business has previously borrowed from the community lender and has had no repayment issues

Where do you Apply?

SOAR Fund – Get Started | Connect2Capital

WellnessLiving #StandwithStudios Grant Program

What is it?

The WellnessLiving #StandwithStudios Grant Program was created to support boutique fitness and wellness businesses with the resources they need to take their business to the next level and continue to positively impact their communities.

Who can Apply

  1. Be the business owner or have signing authority for the business.
  2. Be a legal resident of Canada or the USA.
  3. Have their business in operation since February 2020, and be generating revenue.
  4. Acknowledge that their business is not under bankruptcy protection or does not have judicial liens or attachments.
  5. Upon request by WellnessLiving, each applicant must provide proof of their identity and any qualification as an eligible applicant.
  6. WellnessLiving reserves the right to disqualify any application where such proof is not provided upon request.

Where do you Apply?

Begin at Application – Stand With Studios Grant Program

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Virginia Small Business Grants

Other Valuable State Resources

Local funding opportunities are frequently established by county and city agencies. When looking for funding opportunities from local agencies, the county or city Economic Development Agency or Chamber of Commerce is a great resource to get started.

The state of Vermont updates their Grants on a monthly and yearly basis; frequently checking on the state grant page is vital.

Funding and Incentives | Agency of Commerce and Community Development

Minority Business Specific

SoGal Foundation Grants

What is it?

SoGal Foundation has teamed up with multiple sponsors to provide several $10K and $5K cash grants to Black women or nonbinary entrepreneurs.

Awardees will also receive tactical help navigating the fundraising environment at large so that they will have a more equitable opportunity at scaling the next billion dollar idea. They will also receive lifetime “ask-me-anything” access to the SoGal Foundation and SoGal Ventures teams.

Who Can Apply?

  1. self-identify as a Black woman or Black nonbinary entrepreneur (inclusive of multiracial Black women and multiracial Black nonbinary folks)
  2. have a legally registered business
  3. plan to seek investor financing in order to scale, now or in the future
  4. have a scalable, high-impact solution or idea with the ambition to be the next billion dollar business.

Where do you Apply?

SoGal Black Founder Startup Grant Application

HerRise Micro-Grant

What is it?

The HerRise Micro-Grant provides financial support to women of color creating innovative solutions that impact their community and that are often unable to secure funding for their small business. Each month a $500 micro-grant will be awarded to a small business owned by women of color.

Who Can Apply?

  1. Business is 51% owned by women of color
  2. Business is currently registered in the US
  3. Non-profits, franchise, direct seller, authorized reseller or independent consultant not eligible
  4. Applicant must be a HerSuiteSpot members, registration is free at www.hersuitespot.com/register

Where do you Apply?

HerRise MicroGrant | Cultivating a Digital Funding Solution for Women of Color – HerSuiteSpot

Washington

Small Business Flex Fund Loans

What is it?

Small businesses and nonprofits can borrow up to $150,000 and the money can be spent flexibly, including on payroll, utilities & rent, supplies, marketing & advertising, building improvements or repairs, and other business expenses.

Who Can Apply?

Fewer than 50 employees

Annual revenues of less than $3 million

Experienced direct economic hardship due to COVID-19

Small businesses must have been in business for at least one year prior to the date of application OR, the business must meet one of the following criteria:

  1. Demonstrate three or more years of operating experience in the industry through previous ownership or management OR
  2. Be a previous borrower of the CDFI and have had no repayment issues

Nonprofits must have been in operation since at least January 2019.

Where do you Apply?

Apply Now | smallbusinessflexfund.org

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Washington Small Business Grants

West Virginia

American Rescue Plan Act Non-Entitlement Unity (NEU) Allocations

What is it?

The American Rescue Plan Act (“ARP Act”) was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden on March 11th, 2021, authorizing approximately $1.9 trillion in federal stimulus funds to continue combating the COVID crisis. The core of the ARP Act’s aid to state and local governments are the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds.

Where do you Apply?

WV.gov

West Virginia STEP Program

What is it?

West Virginia is proud to offer grant assistance to small businesses looking to enter or expand in the global marketplace through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). Over the course of the last decade, STEP has awarded 350 state grants to all 50 states and U.S. Territories generating nearly $1.8 billion in exports.

Since 2015, The West Virginia Department of Economic Development has been awarded nearly 1.4 million dollars in STEP funding which has been distributed to over 80 West Virginia Small Businesses to offset the cost of export promotion activities such as participation in foreign trade missions and trade shows, market sales trips, subscriptions to services provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce, translation of materials into foreign languages, design of international marketing materials and online marketing targeting more than 65 different countries around the world resulting in over $43 million dollars in new export sales reported to date.

Where do you Apply?

West Virginia STEP Information | West Virginia Department of Economic Development Website

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

West Virginia Small Business Grants 2022/2023

Wisconsin

American Rescue Plan Act Non-Entitlement Unity (NEU) Allocations

What is it?

The American Rescue Plan Act (“ARP Act”) was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden on March 11th, 2021, authorizing approximately $1.9 trillion in federal stimulus funds to continue combating the COVID crisis. The core of the ARP Act’s aid to state and local governments are the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds.

Where do you Apply?

WV.gov

West Virginia STEP Program

What is it?

West Virginia is proud to offer grant assistance to small businesses looking to enter or expand in the global marketplace through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). Over the course of the last decade, STEP has awarded 350 state grants to all 50 states and U.S. Territories generating nearly $1.8 billion in exports.

Since 2015, The West Virginia Department of Economic Development has been awarded nearly 1.4 million dollars in STEP funding which has been distributed to over 80 West Virginia Small Businesses to offset the cost of export promotion activities such as participation in foreign trade missions and trade shows, market sales trips, subscriptions to services provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce, translation of materials into foreign languages, design of international marketing materials and online marketing targeting more than 65 different countries around the world resulting in over $43 million dollars in new export sales reported to date.

Where do you Apply?

West Virginia STEP Information | West Virginia Department of Economic Development Website

Other State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

West Virginia Small Business Grants 2022/2023

Wyoming

State loan Programs

State loan programs are available to small businesses looking to start or grow their business, or businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 health and safety restrictions and natural disasters. 

Wyoming Small Business Grants

 

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Credit is a tricky and sometimes difficult thing to manage. Dense and often with little instruction; credit can feel pretty overwhelming, especially as you start your business.

There are a few small credit tricks that can help you though!

A little known trick is about opening credit cards for your business. Every card you open hits your credit score and affects your ability to apply for other cards. However, what most people don’t know is that credit checks for cards don’t hit instantly; they take a few days. Thanks to that window, applying for more than one credit card in a day is possible and all the applications will use the score when you applied.

This can help you to obtain the funds needed to really get your business off the ground. Just be sure that you can pay back the monthly minimums as they come in. 

A bonus to this is that credit cards can often include some bonuses or perks upon sign-up. While none of them are consistent, they can be bonus cashback or additional funds when making purchases. Used properly, they can all be leveraged to put you into a better position to make the needed purchases for your business.

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