Some grants stand out for their broad eligibility, strong funding, and proven track records. These 10 programs should be on every small business owner's radar in 2026.
1. SBIR Phase I Grants
Amount: Up to $275,000 Who qualifies: Small businesses with fewer than 500 employees doing R&D Why it matters: Eleven federal agencies fund SBIR grants. The program awards over $4 billion annually. Phase I is a feasibility study. Win that, and Phase II awards up to $1.5 million for full development.
2. USDA Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG)
Amount: Up to $75,000 (planning) or $250,000 (working capital) Who qualifies: Agricultural producers adding value to raw products Why it matters: If you process, package, or market farm products, this grant covers costs that banks often will not finance.
3. SBA Community Advantage Loans (with grant components)
Amount: Up to $350,000 Who qualifies: Businesses in underserved markets Why it matters: While technically a loan program, some Community Advantage lenders pair funding with grant dollars for technical assistance and capacity building.
4. Amber Grant for Women
Amount: $10,000 monthly + $25,000 annual grant Who qualifies: Women-owned businesses Why it matters: One of the simplest applications in the grant world. A short form and a compelling story about your business. Monthly winners also qualify for the larger annual award.
5. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest
Amount: $50,000 grand prize + additional winners Who qualifies: US-based small businesses with 99 or fewer employees Why it matters: FedEx runs this annual competition with multiple winners. Past recipients have used the funding for equipment, marketing, and expansion.
6. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
Amount: Up to $4,000 Who qualifies: NASE members (membership starts at $120/year) Why it matters: Small but accessible. The quarterly application cycle means four chances per year. Good for covering specific business expenses like equipment or marketing.
7. EDA Public Works and Economic Adjustment Grants
Amount: $100,000 to $3,000,000 Who qualifies: Businesses and organizations in economically distressed areas Why it matters: The Economic Development Administration funds projects that create jobs in struggling communities. If your business creates employment in a distressed area, these grants offer significant capital.
8. CDFI Fund Small Dollar Loan Program
Amount: Varies by CDFI partner Who qualifies: Businesses in low-income communities Why it matters: Community Development Financial Institutions receive federal grants specifically to lend to underserved businesses. Many CDFIs combine grant and loan products to keep costs low for borrowers.
9. State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)
Amount: Varies by state (total program: $10 billion) Who qualifies: Small businesses in participating states Why it matters: The SSBCI distributes federal dollars through state programs. Each state designs its own application process. Some offer direct grants. Others offer loan guarantees that make bank financing possible.
10. IFundWomen Universal Grant Database
Amount: $500 to $100,000 (varies by partner) Who qualifies: Primarily women and non-binary entrepreneurs Why it matters: IFundWomen aggregates grants from corporate sponsors. New grants appear regularly from companies like Visa, Neutrogena, and Caress.
How to Apply for These Grants
Each program has its own timeline and requirements. Here is a general approach:
- Check eligibility first. Do not waste time on applications you cannot win.
- Gather standard documents. Most grants want a business plan, financial statements, and tax returns. Prepare these once and reuse them.
- Write a strong narrative. Tell the story of your business, the problem you solve, and how the grant money will create measurable results.
- Apply early. Many programs have rolling deadlines or funding caps. Early applications get priority consideration.
- Follow up. After submission, check on your application status. Ask for feedback if you do not win.
Find Your Best Matches
These 10 grants represent a fraction of available funding. Your specific location, industry, and business demographics determine which programs fit best. GrantMatched matches your business profile against thousands of active grants to show you the opportunities with the highest fit scores. Create your free profile to see your personalized results.