Funding Opportunities for Small Business Growth

Written By Reginauld Williams, MPP

Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding operations, or innovating in your field, funding is crucial. To support your growth, Oak Lane has compiled a comprehensive list of grant opportunities and funding resources tailored to small business owners.

1. Grants.gov

  • What It Is: The official portal for federal grants.

  • Who It’s For: Entrepreneurs, startups, and established small businesses seeking government funding.

  • How to Use It: Use keyword searches like "small business growth" or "entrepreneurship grants." Sign up for alerts to stay updated on new opportunities.

2. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

  • Programs Available:

    • Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR): Funding for R&D-driven businesses.

    • Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR): Supports collaborative innovation with research institutions.

  • Who It’s For: High-growth startups, tech companies, and businesses pursuing innovative solutions.

3. State and Local Economic Development Agencies

  • What They Offer:

    • Growth-focused grants, tax credits, and funding for workforce training.

    • Special initiatives for minority-, veteran-, and women-owned businesses.

  • How to Find Them: Visit your state’s economic development website or contact your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

4. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

  • What It Is: An annual contest awarding funding and services to outstanding small businesses.

  • Prize Amounts: Up to $50,000 in funding and $7,500 in FedEx Office print and business services.

  • How to Apply: Submit an application detailing your business story, plans for growth, and how you’d use the grant.

5. Visa Everywhere Initiative

  • What It Is: A global innovation program offering funding for breakthrough ideas in payments and commerce.

  • Who It’s For: Tech-savvy small businesses and entrepreneurs.

  • Opportunities: Includes funding, mentorship, and exposure to Visa’s global network.

6. Comcast RISE

  • What It Is: A program providing grants, marketing resources, and technology upgrades to small businesses owned by people of color.

  • Special Offerings: Free consultations, media campaigns, and up to $10,000 in grant funding.

7. Amazon Black Business Accelerator

  • What It Is: A program designed to empower Black entrepreneurs selling on Amazon.

  • Benefits Include:

    • Financial assistance

    • Access to advertising credits

    • Business coaching and mentorship

  • Eligibility: Open to U.S.-based Black-owned small businesses.

8. Foundation Directory Online (Candid)

  • What It Is: A subscription-based database with access to over 140,000 grantmakers.

  • How to Access: Visit your local library for free access or purchase a subscription for advanced search capabilities.

9. Economic Development Administration (EDA)

  • What It Is: A federal agency offering grants to enhance local economic ecosystems.

  • Focus Areas: Infrastructure, workforce development, and business growth.

10. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants

  • What It Is: A microgrant program offering up to $4,000 for business needs.

  • Who It’s For: NASE members looking to fund specific projects such as marketing, equipment, or operational upgrades.

Tips for Success

  • Start Local: Begin by exploring state and city-level resources. Many local agencies prioritize community business growth.

  • Tailor Applications: Highlight how the grant aligns with your business’s mission and growth plan.

  • Leverage Networks: Join associations and attend grant-writing workshops to improve your chances.

  • Stay Organized: Track application deadlines and required documents using a simple spreadsheet or project management tool.

Interested in learning more? Set up some time to explore how Oak Lane can partner with you to develop your roadmap to success.

Reginauld Williams, MPP

Reginauld "Reggie" Williams is a business strategist, educator, and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in impact investment, public policy, and business advising. As Founder and CEO of Oak Lane, he supports C-Suite executives and organizations in achieving sustainable growth through strategic planning and innovative business solutions. Reggie has worked with organizations like the Give Black®️ Alliance, United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley, Aras Corporation, Innovate@BU, and Emerson College. His career includes key roles at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center, and Transformative Culture Project. 

Reggie is pursuing his doctorate at NYU’s Steinhardt School, where his research focuses on leadership, innovation, and workforce development. He holds a Master’s in Public Policy from Tufts University, where he served as a faculty advisor and lecturer at the Derby Entrepreneurship Center. Reggie has held leadership roles as an advocate for arts and culture at MassCreative, the Dimock Center, and Boston Arts and Music Soul (BAMS) Fest.

Connect with Reggie on LinkedIn

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