Top 10 Best Startup Grants for Entrepreneurs in 2025

In 2025, startup grants have become a pivotal resource for entrepreneurs looking to kickstart their businesses.

These grants provide essential funding without the obligation of repayment, allowing startups to focus on innovation and growth.

If you're an entrepreneur seeking financial support, this article highlights the top 10 best startup grants available in 2025, along with insights, statistics, and a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process.

Try our AI Grant Finder and Application Writer to quickly find an EU grant that is right for your startup, and have it write a draft of your application.

Why Apply for Startup Grants?

Startup grants offer several advantages for budding entrepreneurs. They provide initial funding to cover essential expenses such as research and development, marketing, and operational costs. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment, which reduces financial risk and allows startups to invest more aggressively in growth and innovation.

According to recent data, 70% of startups that received grants reported accelerated progress and improved financial stability.

Try our FREE Business Model Canvas Generator

Tired of overwhelming templates? The F/MS Business Model Canvas Tool cuts the clutter! Simply answer two questions about your target problem and audience, and let our AI assistant, Elona, generate a tailored Business Model Canvas for you—in minutes. No tedious forms! Whether you fill in all nine sections or let Elona brainstorm ideas, you’ll get a personalized PDF canvas, actionable validation tips, and an editable Google Sheet to refine your strategy.

Why wait? Get started free, save hours, and unlock smarter planning. Perfect for startups and innovators who want to move fast. Try it now →

Your roadmap to success is just two answers away!

Top 10 Best Startup Grants for Entrepreneurs in 2025

1. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program

The SBIR program offers federal grants to tech startups for research and development projects. It fosters innovation and enables startups to collaborate with various government institutions.

2. Amber Grant

The Amber Grant is specifically for women entrepreneurs. It awards $25,000 to women-owned businesses every month, encouraging more women to start and grow their ventures.

3. Small Business Administration (SBA)

The SBA supervises grants for small businesses and tech startups with high-innovation products. They also provide resources and seed-funding grants to promote technological advancement.

4. Economic Development Administration (EDA)

The EDA under the U.S. Department of Commerce offers state-based grants, resources, and support for tech startups and small businesses.

5. National Science Foundation’s America’s Seed Fund

America’s Seed Fund provides around $200 million annually in grant funding to startups with innovative ideas, aimed at promoting cutting-edge scientific technology.

6. Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program

The Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program offers grants to business owners who join their online community, supporting digital literacy and online business development.

7. SOFI Startup Grants

SOFI offers a comprehensive list of startup grants, loans, and resources aimed at empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs with essential funding and advice.

8. Fast Break for Small Business

The Fast Break for Small Business program awards $10,000 to 150 small businesses annually, supporting entrepreneurs and new small business owners.

9. FedEx Small Business Grant

The FedEx Small Business Grant program provides significant financial awards to small businesses involved in various sectors, including medical research and development.

10. LegalZoom Small Business Grants

LegalZoom offers specialized grant programs for small businesses, helping them navigate the legal landscape and secure funding.

Do You Want to Be on This Top List? 🔝

That's possible! Pay a small fee and let us elevate your product or service.
Don't miss out—limited spots available!

Get Started →

How to Apply for a Startup Grant: A Step-by-Step Guide

Research: Identify grants that align with your business's mission and objectives.
Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents such as business plans, financial statements, and market analysis.
Understand Requirements: Review eligibility criteria and application guidelines carefully to ensure compliance.
Submit Application: Complete the application process accurately and submit before the deadline.
Follow Up: Keep track of your application status and be prepared to provide additional information if required.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incomplete Applications: Ensure all required information and documents are provided.
Ignoring Guidelines: Adhere strictly to the application guidelines and criteria.
Lack of Clarity: Clearly articulate your business plan, objectives, and how the grant will be utilized.
Overlooking Deadlines: Submit applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

Important to Remember

Startup grants are competitive and require meticulous preparation. Always customize your application to highlight how your business aligns with the grant's objectives and contributes to innovation and community development.

Dreaming of startup success but too scared to get started?

Join the Fe/male Switch women-first startup game and turn that dream into your reality. With tailored guidance, support networks, and a plethora of resources, we'll nurture your ascent to the startup stratosphere! Don't just stand out—soar high! And we have PlayPals!

Join now.

Conclusion

The top 10 best startup grants for entrepreneurs in 2025 offer valuable opportunities for funding and support. By leveraging these resources, startups can accelerate their growth, innovate, and achieve long-term success. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, these grants are your gateway to financial stability and innovation. For more guidance, consider using tools like the F/MS Business Model Canvas Tool to refine your business strategy and enhance your grant application.

Get started with F/MS: Free Business Model Canvas Tool

Maximize your startup's potential with the F/MS AI-powered Business Model Canvas Tool – streamline your planning process and move faster towards success. Try it now!

FAQ

1. Why should I apply for startup grants?

Applying for startup grants provides initial funding to cover essential expenses like research, marketing, and operational costs. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment, reducing financial risk and enabling startups to focus more on innovation and growth. Successful applicants report accelerated progress and improved financial stability. Read more

2. What is the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program?

The SBIR Program offers federal grants to tech startups for research and development projects. It aims to foster innovation and enables collaborations between startups and various government institutions. Explore SBIR

3. What is the Amber Grant?

The Amber Grant awards $25,000 to a woman-owned business every month. This grant encourages women to start and grow their ventures. Discover the Amber Grant

4. What does the Small Business Administration (SBA) offer?

The SBA supervises grants for small businesses and tech startups, especially those with high-innovation products. It also provides resources and seed-funding grants to promote technological advancement. Learn about the SBA

5. What is the Economic Development Administration (EDA)?

The EDA under the U.S. Department of Commerce offers state-based grants, resources, and support for tech startups and small businesses. Get details on EDA

6. What is America's Seed Fund by the National Science Foundation?

America's Seed Fund provides around $200 million annually in grant funding to startups with innovative ideas, promoting cutting-edge scientific and technological advancements. America’s Seed Fund

7. What does the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program offer?

The Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program offers grants to business owners who join their online community, supporting digital literacy and business development online. Learn more

8. What grants does SOFI offer?

SOFI provides a comprehensive list of startup grants, loans, and resources aimed at empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs with essential funding and advice. Discover SOFI’s offers

9. What is the Fast Break for Small Business program?

The Fast Break for Small Business program awards $10,000 to 150 small businesses annually, supporting entrepreneurs and new small business owners. Fast Break for Small Business

10. What is the FedEx Small Business Grant?

The FedEx Small Business Grant provides significant financial awards to small businesses involved in various sectors, including medical research and development. FedEx Grant