{"id":1394,"date":"2025-03-25T19:07:10","date_gmt":"2025-03-25T19:07:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/?p=1394"},"modified":"2025-03-25T19:07:10","modified_gmt":"2025-03-25T19:07:10","slug":"free-money-alert-grants-to-propel-your-business","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/2025\/03\/25\/free-money-alert-grants-to-propel-your-business\/","title":{"rendered":"Free Money Alert! Grants to Propel Your Business."},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Unlock Business Growth with Free Grants to Propel Your Dream Forward!<\/strong><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s better than free tacos?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How about free money for your business!?!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s right\u2014there are some fantastic grant opportunities available right now for small businesses in South Florida and beyond. It\u2019s like a little extra boost to help your business sparkle even more.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s the lowdown on some incredible grants you might qualify for. Need help with the application process or have questions? Just give me a shout! And seriously\u2014don\u2019t feel like you have to tackle all the grunt work alone. I\u2019ve been there and can help. Schedule a free 15-minute discovery call https:\/\/calendly.com\/jorawald\/free-15-minute-growth-discovery-call with me to chat about the details. Let\u2019s turn those grant opportunities into real cash for your business.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s get those funds flowing and make your business dreams a reality!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s a Grant?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Grants are financial awards provided by organizations\u2014such as government agencies, foundations, or corporations\u2014to individuals, businesses, or other entities for specific purposes. Seriously, they\u2019re kind of like a financial High-Five from organizations. Unlike loans, you don\u2019t have to pay these back. They\u2019re handed out to support projects, initiatives, or activities that match the grant provider\u2019s mission or interests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s the lowdown:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Purpose-Specific &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Grants are tailored for particular needs, like boosting research, funding community projects, expanding your business, or supporting educational programs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Application Process &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0To snag a grant, you typically need to craft a proposal or application. This should detail your project, your goals, and how you plan to use the funds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eligibility Criteria &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Each grant has its own set of requirements, which might include your business size, industry, location, or type of project.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Award Conditions &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Once you get a grant, you might have to follow certain conditions or report back on how you used the funds and what you accomplished.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In short, grants are a fantastic way to get financial support for growth, innovation, or making an impact in your community\u2014all without the stress of repayment.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.broward.org\/EconDev\/Pages\/small-business-micro-grant.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Broward County Small Business Micro-Grant Pilot Program<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) is thrilled to offer the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.broward.org\/EconDev\/Pages\/small-business-micro-grant.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Small Business Micro-Grant Pilot Program<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;designed to provide essential working capital to small businesses located in Broward County. This initiative aims to support the smallest businesses in our community with the financial assistance they need to thrive. The program will be available for online applications through the AccessBROWARD portal. https:\/\/access.broward.org\/About.aspx<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eligible businesses can apply for up to $2,500 in reimbursable expenses for costs incurred within 60 days prior to their application date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eligibility Requirements<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To qualify for the micro-grant, businesses must meet the following criteria:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Government Eligibility &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Must be eligible (i.e., not suspended or debarred) to contract with federal, state, or local government entities for grants or loans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Broward County Business License &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Must have a valid Broward County Business License Tax Receipt (2023 or 2024), obtained by 5 PM on Friday, June 7, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>City Business License &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Must hold a valid City Business License Tax Receipt (2023 or 2024).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Operational History &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Must have been in operation on or before October 1, 2022.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>State Registration &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Must be registered with the State of Florida Division of Corporations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tax Filings &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Business tax filings must be current (2022 or 2023).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Revenue &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Gross annual revenue must be $500,000 or less.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Employment &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Must employ 10 full-time people or fewer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ownership &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0The applicant(s) must be majority owners (50% or more) of the business.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Business Type &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Must be a for-profit business and not part of a national chain.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Location &#8211;<\/strong>\u00a0Eligibility is based on the business address reported in the application. Home addresses are considered only if the business operates as a home-based business (home-based businesses must provide IRS Form 8829).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Required Documents<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Submit the following documents along with your application:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Completed and signed W-9 form<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Most recent Broward County Local Business License Tax Receipt (2023 or 2024)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Most recent City Local Business License Tax Receipt (2023 or 2024)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Documentation of active status with the Florida Division of Corporations for at least two years<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Federal business tax returns (2022 or 2023)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Business employment documentation (or an Employment Documentation Waiver if no employees)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Government-issued identification<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grant Terms and Conditions for the Broward County Small Business Micro-Grant Pilot Program<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Documentation of eligible reimbursable expenses paid within 60 days prior to application date.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure to prepare your documents in advance to streamline the application process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fast Break for Small Business<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get ready to score big with the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/microbizinsocal.org\/grants\/fast-break-for-small-business\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Fast Break for Small Business<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;program! This initiative is dishing out $10,000 each to 150 small businesses across the U.S. and is a collaborative effort from LegalZoom, Accion Opportunity Fund, the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G-League. To qualify, your business needs to be up and running for at least three months and have annual revenue under $1 million. Plus, if you&#8217;re one of the 3,000 budding entrepreneurs who haven\u2019t kicked off your venture yet, you could snag a LegalZoom product worth up to $500. Applications are open from Feb. 15 &#8211; Sept. 13, 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Enterprise Florida Trade Grants&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re a Florida export business, check out the grants available through the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.enterpriseflorida.com\/export-from-florida\/trade-grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Florida Export Diversification and Expansion Program<\/a>. These grants support everything from marketing plans to trade shows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To be in the running, your business should be Florida-based, operational for at least two years, employ between 3 and 500 people, and have annual sales of $250,000 or more. Each grant may have specific additional requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) State Trade Expansion Program&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/floridasbdc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Florida SBDC State Trade Expansion Program<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/a>offers reimbursement for export credit insurance, marketing plans, and trade show expenses\u2014up to $15,000 per funding period. If you&#8217;re new to exporting or looking to expand through exporting, this is for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, the SBDC provides free business consulting services. Their certified consultants are ready to assist with everything from business planning to cybersecurity. There are also on-demand videos and live workshops available, though some might have a small fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bizee Fresh Start Business Grant&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Formerly known as the Incfile&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bizee.com\/blog\/bizee-fresh-start-small-business-grant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Fresh Start Business Grant<\/strong><\/a>, the Bizee Fresh Start Business Grant is designed for budding entrepreneurs launching their ventures. Eligibility requires U.S. residency and a minimum age of 21. Each cycle, one recipient will be awarded a $2,500 grant alongside complimentary business formation services from Bizee. Grants are distributed three times annually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>National Association for the Self-Employed Growth Grants<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/www.nase.org\/become-a-member\/member-benefits\/business-resources\/growth-grants\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nase.org\/become-a-member\/member-benefits\/business-resources\/growth-grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The National Association for the Self-Employed<\/a><\/strong>, a nonprofit trade association dedicated to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, offers educational resources and grants of up to $4,000. To get in on this opportunity, you&#8217;ll need to be an active member of the association. You&#8217;ll also need to detail how you&#8217;ll use the funds to propel your business growth and provide the necessary supporting documentation. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so don\u2019t miss out on this chance to boost your business!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>America\u2019s Seed Fund<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/beta.www.sbir.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">America\u2019s Seed Fund<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;offers grants through the SBIR and STTR programs for tech-focused small businesses. Grants range from $50,000 to nearly $2 million, depending on development phase. To apply, your business must be U.S.-owned, for-profit, and focus on R&amp;D with fewer than 500 employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Prospera Small-Business Grants<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since 1991,&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/prosperausa.org\/grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Prospera<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;has been a powerhouse for Hispanic entrepreneurs in Florida. This nonprofit is dedicated to providing Hispanic business owners with the tools and resources they need to thrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prospera\u2019s grants are tailored to individual needs and cover professional services like legal and accounting assessments, business plans, QuickBooks consulting, and marketing. Best part? All these services come at no cost to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Florida High Tech Corridor Grant<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Got a high-tech startup in Florida? You might just be eligible for a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/floridahightech.com\/innovation-investments\/research-grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Florida High Tech Corridor grant<\/strong><\/a>! These grants are perfect for research and development projects, connecting businesses with researchers at the University of Central Florida and the University of South Florida. Opportunities are open across 23 Florida counties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re a fit, you&#8217;ll collaborate with university researchers to craft a project plan and budget, and submit your application online. Grants up to $150,000 are awarded directly to the university research team. Applications are open year-round, so don\u2019t wait!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Grant<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nase.org\/become-a-member\/member-benefits\/business-resources\/growth-grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>NASE<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;provides business development grants up to $4,000. Since 2006, they&#8217;ve awarded nearly $1 million to U.S. small businesses. To apply, you need to be a member for at least 90 days, demonstrate financial need, and provide details on how the grant will help your business. Membership is $11.95 per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>North Miami Community Redevelopment Agency Grants<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/northmiamicra.org\/about-us\/grant-assistance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The North Miami CRA<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong>offers several commercial grant programs, including Business Attraction, Beautification and Enhancement, Rehabilitation, and Capacity Building\/Retention Grants. Depending on the program, you can receive between $7,500 and $150,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eligibility includes being located within the designated North Miami area and showing community benefits. Some grants require a 50% match from the business<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Isn\u2019t It Great Being a Woman?!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, ladies \u2013 this section is just for us! Grants specifically for women in business offer a fantastic, no-cost way to grow your venture\u2014way better than dealing with the repayment strings of loans and other debt-based funding. Sure, scoring these grants can be a competitive game and requires a hefty investment of your time and energy. But getting certified as a Woman-Owned Business can make the grant application process smoother and quicker. If you&#8217;re ready to tackle the challenge, grants can be a game-changer for funding your startup or established business. Check out my list below for small-business grants and additional financial resources tailored just for women entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fund Her Future<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fund Her Future is a grant initiative offered by&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.blockadvisors.com\/fund-her-future-small-business-grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Block Advisors through H&amp;R Block<\/a><\/strong>, available to women business owners across the nation. One lucky grand prize winner will receive a $50,000 grant, while four additional small businesses will each receive $12,500. Winners will also enjoy a year of complimentary small business services, including bookkeeping, payroll, and tax support. To qualify, your business must be at least 51% woman-owned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>HerRise Microgrant program<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Administered by the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hersuitespot.com\/herrise\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Yva Jourdan Foundation<\/a><\/strong>, the nonprofit division of HerSuiteSpot, offers financial support to women of color entrepreneurs. These microgrants, valued at $1,000 each, are distributed monthly, with applications accepted on a recurring basis. To qualify, your business must be majority-owned by women of color, constituting at least 51%, and your gross revenue should not exceed $1 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Amber Grant&nbsp;<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ambergrantsforwomen.com\/get-an-amber-grant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">WomensNet<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>presents the<a href=\"https:\/\/ambergrantsforwomen.com\/get-an-amber-grant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">&nbsp;<strong>Amber Grant<\/strong><\/a>, a monthly initiative awarding three $10,000 grants to women-owned businesses. These grants are allocated as follows: one for startups, one for businesses falling under specific rotating categories (such as sustainability in April and mental and emotional support in May), and one for general small businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, at the year&#8217;s end, monthly grant recipients become eligible for one of three $25,000 annual grants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The application process is straightforward &#8211; Outline your business, detail your plans for utilizing the grant funds, and submit a $15 application fee. Winners are selected by the foundation&#8217;s advisory board, prioritizing women with compelling narratives and fervor for their endeavors. Eligible businesses include those operating in the United States and Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Given the absence of a specific business tenure requirement, startups seeking women-focused business grants may find the Amber Grant particularly appealing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>EmpowHER Grants&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Female entrepreneurs aged 22 and above could qualify for an&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/weareempower.org\/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwouexBhAuEiwAtW_Zx6K1j45vhAiDFZa2tzNSmZZ54xE3SwxlheGI-urmzDuN7Qf4hJxl4xoCROcQAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">EmpowHER grant<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong>provided by the Boundless Future Foundation. To be eligible, your business must have been founded within the past three years. Grants are disbursed as reimbursements, covering up to $25,000 for various business expenses. Applications are accepted quarterly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Her Village Grant<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Offered by the Boundless Future Foundation, the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/theboundlessfuturesfoundation.submittable.com\/submit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Her Village Grant<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;is designed to support nonprofits that champion female entrepreneurs. With grant awards ranging from $5,000 to $30,000, this initiative provides a great opportunity to boost organizations dedicated to empowering women in business. Mark your calendar: the next application window opens from July to September 2024. Let\u2019s make an impact together!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>** The Freed Fellowship Grant&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Freed Fellowship Graant offers a&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/freedfellowship.com\/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwouexBhAuEiwAtW_Zx-w1KO6Kx07_Mag1Zx4vJdtluFUDsB9HgaZaWKWK6N96X-DqCvRUWxoCAocQAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">$500 micro-grant<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;to a minority or woman small business owner every month. Additionally, monthly grant recipients have the chance to qualify for a $2,500 annual grant. Applications are accepted continuously. Although this grant is accessible to all small business owners, women and minority entrepreneurs are especially encouraged to apply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cartier Women&#8217;s Initiative Awards&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Annually, Cartier presents three grants to women-owned businesses across nine distinct global regions.&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cartierwomensinitiative.com\/v3\/assets\/bltb7e02857fe9fdf11\/blt97a0f7bd91e0cf03\/6298abfd8cb26d5d74d05db4\/2023_Regional_Awards_Application_Form_(Final)_CLEAN.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Cartier Women\u2019s Initiative Awards<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong>aim to bolster early-stage enterprises addressing a spectrum of social, economic, and environmental development challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The top-ranking business secures a $100,000 grant, the second-place recipient receives $60,000, and the third-place awardee is granted $30,000. Additionally, winners benefit from executive coaching and access to various training workshops.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>** Galaxy Grants<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those of us blazing our own trail, Hidden Star, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women, people of color, and low-income entrepreneurs, has some stellar news. Their&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/galaxyofstars.org\/galaxy-grants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Galaxy Grants<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;program is offering up to $2,750 in funding to support our ventures. If you\u2019re a woman or person of color running a business, this could be your chance to shine. Applications are currently open and will be accepted through September 30, 2024. Don\u2019t miss out on this opportunity to fuel your entrepreneurial dreams!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Giving Joy Grants&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ladies over 18, here&#8217;s your chance to snag a&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/givingjoygrants.org\/grant-application\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">microgrant from Giving Joy<\/a><\/strong>! Whether you&#8217;re kicking off a new business or nonprofit or looking to expand an existing venture, these grants range from $250 to $500 and can give your project a solid boost. This year, you have two chances to apply: the first window is from January 1 to April 30, and the second is from June 1 to September 30, 2024. Don\u2019t miss out on this opportunity to fuel your passion!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>** BMO Celebrating Women Grant&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 2024&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bmo.com\/en-us\/main\/business-banking\/women-in-business\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BMO Celebrating Women grant<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;is up for grabs for small businesses in 24 states, including Florida. Fifteen businesses will snag $10,000 each. To qualify, your business must have been operating for at least two years and have annual revenue of no more than $5 million. Mark your calendar: Applications are open from April 30 &#8211; May 14, 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>** CCWC Women of Color Entrepreneur Grant<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Businesses that have been operational since January 1, 2020, or earlier, may qualify for the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ccwomenofcolor.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/MoregrantsforWOC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CCWC (Corporate Council Women of Color) Entrepreneur Grant.<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;Five businesses will be chosen to receive grants of $2,500 each. Applications are accepted continuously, with no specific deadline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME)&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) administered by the SBA differs from most grant programs as it doesn&#8217;t directly provide funding to small businesses. Instead, it offers federal grants to&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/document\/information-notice--program-investors-microentrepreneurs-prime\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">microenterprise development organizations.<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;These organizations, in turn, use the grants to provide training, technical assistance, and coaching to disadvantaged small-business owners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These grants are open to various types of organizations, including nonprofit, private, state, local, or tribal entities, with a focus on supporting women-owned small businesses. For instance, in 2022, the Wisconsin Women\u2019s Business Initiative Corporation received a $200,000 grant under this program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>** BGV Pitch Competition<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hosted by&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.blackgirlventures.org\/bgv-pitch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Black Girl Ventures<\/a><\/strong>, this pitch competition is tailored for underrepresented female business owners looking to make a splash. The top prize? A $15,000 grant for the first-place winner, while the second-place contender will snag $10,000 and the third place will score $5,000. Mark your calendars: NYC applications are due by October 9, 2024, and Los Angeles entries must be in by November 6, 2024. Don\u2019t miss your chance to shine!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Mama Ladder High Five Grant for Moms<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Mama Ladder organization presents the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/themamaladder.com\/grant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">High Five Grant<\/a><\/strong>, an annual small-business grant tailored specifically for mothers. This grant aims to assist women caregivers, including expecting mothers, stepmothers, and foster moms, across all stages of motherhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Entrepreneurs can apply online and share their business stories on social media. Finalists will be selected by a panel of judges, followed by a public vote to determine the top three winners. The grand prize winner receives a $10,000 grant, the runner-up earns a $5,000 grant, and the third-place finalist is awarded $2,500. Additionally, five other businesses receive honorable mention grants of $1,000 each.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DWEN US Dream Tech Contest&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sponsored by Dell Technologies, the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dwen.com\/en-us\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DWEN US Dream Tech Contest<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;is an exciting opportunity for women-owned small businesses. To enter, you\u2019ll need to join the Dell Women&#8217;s Entrepreneur Network. The top prize is a hefty $40,000 in Dell Rewards Points, with second and third places snagging $15,000 and $5,000 in Dell Rewards Points, respectively. While the deadlines for the 2024 cycle are still to be announced, it&#8217;s time to start preparing your pitch for this tech-tastic chance!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Private Small-Business Grants for Minorities<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the daughter of a Spanish father and Chinese mother \u2013 I\u2019m about as minority as minority can get. And, as a proud minority business owner myself, I know firsthand the unique challenges and opportunities we face. That\u2019s why exploring private grants tailored for minority entrepreneurs can be a game-changer. Whether you\u2019re running a brick-and-mortar shop or dreaming of launching your own venture, these grants offer a golden opportunity to boost your business without the burden of repayment. The programs I\u2019m about to highlight are designed to support minority business owners like us, providing essential funding and resources to help us thrive. Dive in and discover how these grants can pave the way to your next big success!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Wish Local Empowerment Grant<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Specifically for black business owners, the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wish.com\/local\/empowerment\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wish Local Empowerment Grant program<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;is here to support you with grants ranging from $500 to $2,000. To qualify, you need to be at least 18 years old, run a business with 20 or fewer employees, have an annual average revenue under $1 million, and operate a physical location in the U.S. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so you can apply anytime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>#SupportSmallBiz Grant&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Brought to you by Small Business Majority and Support Latino Business, the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/supportlatino.biz\/supportsmallbiz-grant\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">#SupportSmallBiz Grant<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;is an annual opportunity for businesses that are at least 50% Latino-owned. While the specifics for the 2024 cycle haven\u2019t been released yet, it&#8217;s worth keeping an eye out for this fantastic chance to support and grow Latino-owned enterprises!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>National Black MBA Association Scale-Up Pitch Challenge<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Three businesses win cash prizes from the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nbmbaa.org\/scale-up-pitch-challenge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Black MBA Association Scale-Up Pitch Challenge<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong>each year, with the overall winner taking home a $50,000 grant prize. Second place wins a $10,000 grant and third place receives $7,500. To apply, your business must have a Black founder and at least one member of your pitch team has to be a National Black MBA Association member. Applications are open from June 14-July 26, 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>REI Navigate Program<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/path-ahead\/navigate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">REI Navigate Program<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;is a four-month opportunity designed for businesses with at least one founder who identifies as Black, Indigenous, Latinx, or Asian American and Pacific Islander. This program offers group programming, mentorship, and connects you to a vibrant outdoor-focused entrepreneurial community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To qualify, your business must fall within the activity or outdoor categories and have generated between $75,000 and $2 million in revenue over the past year. Recipients will receive a $25,000 grant. Details for the 2024 cycle haven\u2019t been announced yet, so stay tuned for updates!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>***BGV Pitch Competition<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hosted by Black Girl Ventures, this&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.blackgirlventures.org\/bgv-pitch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pitch competition<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;is tailored for underrepresented female business owners looking to make a splash. The top prize? A $15,000 grant for the first-place winner, while the second-place contender will snag $10,000 and the third place will score $5,000. Mark your calendars: NYC applications are due by October 9, 2024, and Los Angeles entries must be in by November 6, 2024. Don\u2019t miss your chance to shine!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>** The Freed Fellowship Grant&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/freedfellowship.com\/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwouexBhAuEiwAtW_Zx-w1KO6Kx07_Mag1Zx4vJdtluFUDsB9HgaZaWKWK6N96X-DqCvRUWxoCAocQAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Freed Fellowship Grant<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong>offers a $500 micro-grant to a minority or woman small business owner every month. Additionally, monthly grant recipients have the chance to qualify for a $2,500 annual grant. Applications are accepted continuously. Although this grant is accessible to all small business owners, women and minority entrepreneurs are especially encouraged to apply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Famous Amos Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Entering its fourth year, the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdwallet.com\/article\/small-business\/FamousAmosIngredientsForSuccess.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Famous Amos Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;is a fantastic collaboration between Ferrero North America and the U.S. Black Chambers. This program offers a generous $50,000 grant, along with valuable resources and mentorship services, specifically for Black-owned businesses. To qualify, your business must be at least 90% Black-owned and have been running for no more than five years. Three standout winners will be chosen, so if you&#8217;re in the mix, make sure to get your application in by August 4, 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>** CCWC Women of Color Entrepreneur Grant<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Businesses that have been operational since January 1, 2020, or earlier, may qualify for the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ccwomenofcolor.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/MoregrantsforWOC.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CCWC (Corporate Council Women of Color) Entrepreneur Grant.<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;Five businesses will be chosen to receive grants of $2,500 each. Applications are accepted continuously, with no specific deadline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>** HerRise Microgrant program<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hersuitespot.com\/herrise\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HerRise Microgrant program<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong>administered by the Yva Jourdan Foundation, the nonprofit division of HerSuiteSpot, offers financial support to women of color entrepreneurs. These microgrants, valued at $1,000 each, are distributed monthly, with applications accepted on a recurring basis. To qualify, your business must be majority-owned by women of color, constituting at least 51%, and your gross revenue should not exceed $1 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>National Black Business Pitch<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/nationalblackbusinesspitch.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The National Black Business Pitch<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;is back for another year, offering Black business owners the chance to showcase their ventures in front of a virtual audience. Finalists will pitch their ideas, and three standout businesses will be rewarded with prizes of up to $10,000 each. While registration has wrapped up (as of June 3, 2024), mark your calendar for the big event on August 21, 2024, and get ready to cheer for some incredible pitches!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tips for Finding the Right Florida Small-Business Grant<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Navigating the world of small-business grants can feel like a maze, especially when you\u2019re juggling the demands of launching your new venture. But don\u2019t worry; I\u2019ve got some tips to help you cut through the fog and find the perfect grant opportunity for your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<strong>1. Carve Out Time for Grant Applications<\/strong>&nbsp;Starting a new business is no small feat, and your time is precious. It\u2019s worth setting aside a dedicated time slot each week (or more if you can swing it) to hunt for and apply to grants. Before you dive in, make sure to thoroughly check the eligibility requirements for each grant to confirm that your business aligns with their criteria. This way, you won\u2019t waste time on applications that aren\u2019t a good fit.&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2. Broaden Your Search Horizons<\/strong>&nbsp;Don\u2019t limit yourself to just the obvious grant opportunities. Look into local grants in your area and consider demographic-specific searches that might apply to you or your business. For instance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Grants for veterans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grants for Black women<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Startup business grants<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grants for individuals with felony convictions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grants for nonprofits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grants for farmers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re a woman, veteran, small business owner, or from a disadvantaged background, AND you\u2019re certified (not sure what that means? Contact me!), you might find that the approval process for grants speeds up. Need help getting certified? I offer programs to assist with that! Click here to schedule a free 15-minute discovery call if you have any questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3. Evaluate Grant Application Fees<\/strong>&nbsp;When considering grant opportunities, don\u2019t forget to factor in any application fees. Weigh the cost of applying against the potential benefits of the grant. Keeping track of which grants have fees and which don\u2019t will help you prioritize those that are either affordable or free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<strong>4. Explore Alternative Funding Options<\/strong>&nbsp;While I\u2019m not a fan of pushing yourself (or your business) further into debt, I\u2019m all for making a smart investment if it promises significant returns. Remember, not every grant application will result in funding, as they\u2019re highly competitive. If you don\u2019t land a grant, there are other funding avenues to explore. Small-business loans, like SBA loans, are worth considering. Need a guide on how to navigate SBA loans?&nbsp; &nbsp;Check out my blog titled \u201cHOW TO APPLY FOR A GUARANTEED SBA LOAN: YOUR STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE.\u201d And, whether you&#8217;re looking to snag a grant or need a business loan, I\u2019ve got your back. If you need a fast and effective loan solution (like whipping up a business plan, sales forecast, or budget in no time), check out my&nbsp;<strong>\u201cGet it in 90-Minutes Strategy\u201d<\/strong>&nbsp;program. You can find all the details here: 90-Minute Strategy Meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep these tips in mind as you dive into your grant search, and you\u2019ll be well on your way to securing the funding your business needs to shine. These grants are like your secret weapon\u2014no repayment required, just pure financial support to make your dreams a reality. Whether you\u2019re eyeing Broward County\u2019s micro-grants, looking to tap into Florida High Tech Corridor funding, or aiming for a national grant, there\u2019s something out there with your name on it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And hey, if you need a hand with the application process or just want to chat about your options, don\u2019t hesitate to reach out. I\u2019ve been in your shoes and I\u2019m here to help you navigate these opportunities with ease. Schedule a<strong>&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/calendly.com\/jorawald\/free-15-minute-growth-discovery-call\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">free 15-minute discovery call<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;with me, and let\u2019s turn those grant possibilities into tangible success for your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&#8217;s make those grant opportunities work for you! Ready, set, apply!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Unlock Business Growth with Free Grants to Propel Your Dream Forward! What\u2019s better than free tacos?&nbsp; How about free money for your business!?! That\u2019s right\u2014there are some fantastic grant opportunities available right now for small businesses in South Florida and beyond. It\u2019s like a little extra boost to help your business sparkle even more.&nbsp;&nbsp; Here\u2019s [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1395,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1394","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1394","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1394"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1394\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1396,"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1394\/revisions\/1396"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1395"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1394"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1394"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jo-rawald.client-demo-websites.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1394"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}