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Top Grants and Funding Resources for Small Businesses

Introduction
You need more than a good idea to start a business—you also need money. A lot of entrepreneurs aren’t aware that there are local business grants and funds you can take advantage of. This guide lists the top grants and funding resources in the USA, UK, Canada and Australia, so you don’t need to take on debt.

Whatever your level in business, you’ll find helpful tips here on how to obtain real funding.

Small Business Grants and Programs in the USA

Small businesses in underserved areas of the United States are supported by a number of government programs.

Among the best are:

• SBIR grants are available to companies and academic teams in technology research.
• STTR projects require participation from a research partner in addition to what is seen in SBIR.
• State Economic Development Grants assist local businesses and are awarded by most states.
• Amber Grant helps women entrepreneurs; the award is given monthly.
• SBA loans are not grants, but they are affordable for new businesses.

Please check out the updated listings on Grants.gov and SBA.gov.

UK: Support for Businesses from the Government

The UK government aids small businesses through giving away grants and offering mentorship.

Best UK funding opportunities:

• Innovate UK is offering Smart Grants, aimed at tech and science businesses.
• Startup Loan Scheme – A loan you get from the government with mentoring support.
• LEPs – Provides regional assistance.
• Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme – Young entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 30 are welcome to apply.

Remember to check the UK Government’s Business Finance Finder to find grants for your local area.

Entrepreneurs in Canada May Benefit from Government Grants

The country has numerous programs that help startups, especially tech firms, women entrepreneurs and businesses owned by Indigenous people.

Popular options:

• Canada Job Grant covers part of the expenses for training your staff.
• Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) has programs to support development of new technology.
• Futurpreneur Canada gives loans and offers support to those 18 to 39 who wish to start a business.
• CanExport – Guides small businesses as they move into foreign markets.

You can get personalized results by looking up grants with Canada.ca and Innovation Canada’s Business Benefits Finder.

There are grants in Australia designed for small and growing businesses

In Australia, grants exist at the federal and state levels.

Many students choose from leading programs like:

• The Business.gov.au Grants Finder allows all Australians to see a wide range of government grants in one place.
• EMDG – Helps companies pay for marketing activities in different countries.
• Entrepreneurs’ Programme – The service provides information, monetary support and access to a network.
• NSW’s Small Business Grant is one example of these local grants.

It’s a good idea to visit your state government website to find information about small business incentives.

Simple Steps You Can Take to Go for a Grant

• Make sure your information matches your own abilities.
• Show the goals for your business using a business plan.
• Try to submit your application as soon as possible, because money for scholarships can be used up fast.
• Try to find exclusive grants for women, youth, minorities or green entrepreneurs.

Final Thoughts

Often, you have options besides getting a loan or a wealthy partner. There are many free resources available if you can identify them. Refer to the websites and tools discussed above to choose the best grant for your company that fits your area, industry and experience.

FAQ (Google-Approved and Validated by Schema)

Q1. Do business grants come without a charge?
Grants for businesses come from either the government or private organizations and do not have to be repaid. You do not have to repay them.

Q2. Is it permitted to apply for several grants at the same time?
You can submit an application to several grant programs as long as you qualify based on their charts.

Q3. How can I give myself a better chance of getting a grant?
Make sure your business plan is clear, fill out the application early and align your answers with what the grant wants to support.

Q4. Where are business grants listed on the internet?
USA Grants are located on Grants.gov and you can find programs at the SBA.gov website.
Visit the GOV.UK Business Finance Finder if you are in the UK.
Canada’s official website for innovation goes by the name Innovation Canada.
Business owners in Australia can find help at business.gov.au.

Q5. Which businesses can get grants?
Many! In particular, tech startups, businesses run by women, environmentally sustainable companies, those in rural areas and those selling outside the home country.