How to Find and Apply for Small Business Grants

Written By Candace Osmond

Are you thinking of applying for a small business grant in Canada or the US? I mean, free money for your business? Um, yes, please! But before you start dreaming about spending that grant cash, let's talk about how to actually find and win these golden grant opportunities. I’ll break down how grants work, what you need to apply for a grant, and list a bunch of great grant opportunities to check out.

Why Small Business Grants Matter

Let's be real—starting or growing a business isn't cheap whatsoever, no matter how many budget gurus you follow online. Equipment, inventory, marketing, rent—it all adds up fast. Business loans require payback (and interest that makes your accountant cry), but small business grants are basically free funding to help your budding businesses thrive.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident, and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

But here's the catch: grants aren't handed out like free samples at Costco. They actually need proper research, a clear strategy, and a well-crafted application. That's where we come in!

What Are Small Business Grants?

A small business grant is funding provided by the government, corporations, or nonprofit organizations to help businesses launch or expand. It's as simple as that.

But, unlike loans, grants don't have to be repaid (huzzah!) but they do come with strings attached—like eligibility criteria, strict reporting, and the occasional headache.

Types of Small Business Grants

There are three main types of grants. Allow me to break them down for you.

  • Government Grants – These are offered by federal, state, and local governments (usually competitive).

  • Corporate Grants – These grants are usually provided by large companies to support small businesses, startups, and innovation. It's a tax write-off for them and free money for you. Win-win!

  • Nonprofit & Foundation Grants – These are focused on businesses with some kind of social impact, minority-owned businesses, women entrepreneurs, etc.

Where to Find Small Business Grants in 2025

The good news? There's money out there. The bad news? You need to know where to look. It's kind of like fishing. The fish are definitely swimming around in the lake, but knowing where to throw your rod is the key. Here are the best places to start your grant hunt:

1. Government Grant Websites

The US and Canadian governments offer a ton of small business grants. Here are a few sites I suggest you bookmark:

2. Corporate & Private Grants

Large companies love to support small businesses—especially ones that are on the same page as their mission. Here are a few corporate-backed grant programs to check out:

How to Apply for Small Business Grants (Without Losing Your Sanity)

Applying for grants can feel like writing a college thesis that you know nothing about—but with money on the line. But I can simplify things for you! Just follow my key steps to increase your chances of winning.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you spend hours on an application, make sure you qualify! Most grants have:

  • Industry restrictions (e.g., tech vs. retail).

  • Business size requirements (e.g., revenue or employee limits).

  • Location-based criteria (some grants are city- or state-specific).

Note: Skipping this step is like trying to enter a VIP party without an invite—wasted effort!

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Most grants require:

  • A solid business plan (if you don't have one, we can help!)

  • Financial records and tax info

  • A project proposal or grant application form

Pro tip: Keep these docs handy in a "Grant Folder" so you're always ready to apply!

Step 3: Write a Killer Grant Proposal

Your grant application isn't just a simple formality—it's your chance to sell your business idea. It HAS to be solid. So, a strong proposal should:

  • Clearly state why your business deserves funding.

  • Highlight the impact of the grant (how it helps your business grow).

  • Show a well-thought-out budget (funders like numbers, not guesses).

Tip: Make it compelling but concise—funders don't have time to read a novel, but a good personal story really helps!

Step 4: Submit & Follow Up

  • Double-check your application for errors.

  • Submit before the deadline (last-minute submissions scream "unprepared").

  • Follow up—some grant organizations allow updates or additional info post-submission.

Note: If you don't hear back, don't panic. Most grants have long review periods—just keep applying!

Common Grant Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

  • Applying for the wrong grants: Always, always, always read eligibility requirements.

  • Skipping the business plan: Funders want a clear roadmap for success.

  • Rushing the application: Give yourself time (like 25-50 hours) to write a strong proposal.

  • Forgetting about reporting requirements: Some grants require progress updates—don't get caught off guard.

Ready to Secure Grant Funding?

Listen. Small business grants can be totally game-changing for you and your business—but they take time, effort, and an incredible amount of strategy to secure. If you want expert guidance in finding, applying for, and winning grants, we're here to help! That's what we specialize in!

If you need help with your grant application, book a free call with us today!

Stay tuned for more funding opportunities—subscribe to our newsletter for grant updates!

Candace Osmond
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