A comprehensive guide to legitimate grant opportunities available to minority-owned small businesses in the United States, including federal programs, corporate initiatives, and private foundations. This list helps entrepreneurs identify funding sources that do not require repayment, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion in business growth.
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Federal programs administered by various agencies to support small businesses engaged in Research and Technology Development. These grants are ideal for tech startups and innovative firms seeking non-dilutive funding for R&D activities, with specific set-asides for socially and economically disadvantaged small business concerns.
A competitive grant program supporting early-stage Black-owned businesses. The program offers seed funding, mentorship, and technical assistance to help entrepreneurs launch or expand their ventures, specifically targeting businesses owned by Black individuals with a focus on community impact.
Offers financial awards and technical assistance to Native American-owned businesses. The program focuses on fostering economic development in Native communities by supporting entrepreneurs who demonstrate potential for growth and job creation within their tribal or local regions.
While technically a loan product, Kiva offers zero-interest loans to underserved entrepreneurs, including many minority-owned businesses. It provides an alternative to traditional bank financing with flexible terms and a global lender base, helping those who may not qualify for conventional credit.
Provides technical assistance and financial awards to small businesses in targeted industries, often with a focus on underserved communities. The program helps entrepreneurs access capital and markets, offering strategic guidance to scale operations and achieve long-term sustainability.
Offers educational grants to support minority students and young entrepreneurs in launching small businesses. The program provides financial resources for business planning, market research, and initial operational costs, aiming to increase diversity in entrepreneurship.
A comprehensive program providing seed funding, mentorship, and resources to Black founders. Participants receive up to $50,000 in funding and access to Visa’s network, helping to accelerate growth and build sustainable business models in underserved markets.
Offers cash prizes and marketing support to small business owners, with specific categories for diverse entrepreneurs. The program recognizes innovative business models and provides visibility and financial resources to help winners grow their customer base and brand awareness.
While primarily an honor, Forbes partners with organizations to provide grant funding to selected entrepreneurs under 30. This recognition opens doors to additional investment opportunities and mentorship, particularly benefiting young founders from underrepresented backgrounds.
Provides $10,000 grants to BIPOC entrepreneurs to help them launch or scale their e-commerce businesses. The program includes mentorship from Shopify experts and marketing resources, designed to reduce barriers to entry for founders from marginalized communities.
An early-stage fund dedicated to investing in Black entrepreneurs. While it is an investment fund rather than a pure grant, it provides critical seed capital and strategic guidance, helping founders build scalable businesses without immediate pressure for rapid exits.
Offers a curriculum and funding opportunity for small business owners, with a strong emphasis on diversity. Participants receive training in business management and access to potential investors, helping minority-owned businesses improve profitability and operational efficiency.
Provides free financial education and support to Black-owned small businesses. The program helps entrepreneurs with strategic planning, cash flow management, and growth strategies, offering a pathway to better financial health and access to capital.
Offers cloud credits, technical support, and mentorship to early-stage startups, including those led by underrepresented founders. The program reduces infrastructure costs and provides access to Microsoft’s global network, accelerating product development and market entry.
Provides $100,000 equity-free grants and resources to Black-led startups in the US. The fund aims to close the diversity gap in tech funding by supporting innovative companies in sectors like fintech, healthtech, and enterprise software.
Supports life science startups with funding, technical resources, and access to industry experts. While not exclusively for minorities, the program prioritizes diverse founding teams, offering non-dilutive capital and scientific expertise to bring novel therapies to market.
Invests in early-stage companies founded by underrepresented minorities in technology and life sciences. The fund provides strategic capital and access to Intel’s ecosystem, helping founders navigate the complex landscape of hardware and software integration.
Provides grants and recognition to women-led businesses, with a specific focus on minority women. The program offers financial awards, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help winners scale their businesses and expand their market reach globally.
Supports women entrepreneurs from underserved communities with access to education and resources. The program provides financial support for leadership training and business development, empowering women to start and grow successful enterprises in challenging environments.
While an investment platform, Ellevest offers educational resources and community support for women entrepreneurs. It helps female founders navigate financial planning and investment strategies, providing tools specifically designed to address the unique financial challenges women face in business.