Small businesses may be eligible for free government grants that they never have to pay back! Keep reading to learn more. 

If you're a budding entrepreneur who has dreams of starting your own business, you're in luck! There are many ways to fund your venture, from government grants at the federal, state, and local levels, to traditional banks, investors and organizations. 

Government grants can help to provide the capital you need to get your business off the ground. Plus, you don't need to pay them back! If you want to find out what grants your business may be eligible for, check out grant.gov. This database of government grants enables you to search (and apply!) for thousands of federal funding opportunities. Keep reading to learn more about Small Business Grants available.

Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Grants

The Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE)was created to provide assistance to rural businesses that use local assets in low-income areas, create high-wage rural jobs, and support the establishment of new business ventures. To be eligible for this grant, applicants must be based in a low-income rural area that supports collaboration between partners. The minimum amount you can receive is $500,000, and the maximum amount is $2,000,000. It's also important to note that the grant has a 4-year term. 

SBIR Program

The SBIR program was created to stimulate technological innovation and encourage research in the private sector. The SBIR program is run by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) with a mission to improve the lives of people with a disability.

Ten grants worth up to $1,000,0000 are distributed through the Administration for Community Living (ACL). For more information or to check eligibility, go to the ACL's official website.

500 Global Flagship Accelerator Program

The 500 Global Flagship Accelerator Program is an innovative grant program that enables start-ups in San Francisco to access funding all year round. The program was founded in 2010 to provide Silicon Valley start-ups with an accelerator program that spanned four months, and this was later expanded to San Francisco on a rolling basis. Eligible founders can receive investments of up to $150,000 and support and mentorship to help grow and scale their business. 

Small Business Technology Transfer Program

The Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) was created in 1992 to bridge the gap between science and monetizing innovations and inventions. In addition, it helps to increase funding for businesses and non-profit research organizations to encourage research and development. 

To receive the award grant, eligible applicants must collaborate with non-profit research institutions and also must also run a profitable business with 500 employees or fewer. 

Amber Grant Foundation

The Amber Grand Foundation was established in 1998 to honor Amber Wigdahi, a 19-year-old woman who dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur and starting her own business. The program provides eligible businesswomen with up to $10,000 capital monthly and a $25,000 bonus each December.

Patagonia Corporate Grant Program

Patagonia Corporate Grant Program works with grassroots organizations and small businesses that aim to preserve and protect the environment. The funding ranges from $10,000 to $20,000 and is available for eligible companies with active, eco-friendly campaigns. To find out if your business qualifies, go to  

Inclusive Backing from American Express

Inclusive Backing From American Express is a grant program that provides financial support of up to $5,000 to small businesses. To be eligible, your business must have a traditional brick-and-mortar location and not be entirely online. For more information about applying, head to the American Express website.

Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant

Are you a women-owned, women-led business? You may be eligible for the Eileen Fisher business grant. Applicants must own at least 51% of their business and have been running for at least three years. In addition, eligible companies are focused on having a positive social and environmental impact. 

Veteran Small Business Award

StreetShares Foundation is a small business grant program that provides veterans and their spouses up to $15,000 in funding for their small businesses. However, they must own at least 50% of the company to be eligible. The program was developed to educate and support small businesses as they grow. 

Find A Small Business Grant Today

If you're a small business owner or have dreams of starting your own small business, there is help available. Both the government and private organizations offer grant programs and support to help you establish and scale your business. Search online today for small business grants to find out what you're eligible for.