Veteran Business Grants: A Path to Free Funding
Veteran business grants provide free financial support to help veterans start or expand their businesses, unlike loans or other debt-based financing that require repayment.
While applying for these grants can be competitive and time-intensive, securing funding can significantly impact your business. Below are some of the top grant opportunities and additional resources for veteran entrepreneurs:
Top Small-Business Grants for Veterans
1. The Second Service Foundation
The Second Service Foundation (formerly the StreetShares Foundation) offers the Military Entrepreneur Challenge, where veterans and their spouses can compete to win business grants. To apply:
- Register online and attend a speed coaching session.
- Complete an application that includes a business one-pager.
Finalists deliver a two-minute pitch at a foundation conference, and audience votes determine winners. Grant amounts vary by event.
2. Warrior Rising
Warrior Rising supports veterans transitioning to “vetrepreneurs” through a six-step program offering training, coaching, and networking. Participants may qualify for startup grants by presenting their business ideas. Eligibility includes:
- Veteran status or immediate family member of a veteran.
- Application completion.
3. Stephen L. Tadlock Veteran Grant
This program awards 25 $1,000 micro-grants to U.S. veteran-owned businesses meeting these criteria:
- Employ 2–100 people.
- At least one year in operation.
- Annual revenue under $5 million.
Pre-register for the 2024 cycle.
4. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
NASE offers $4,000 quarterly grants. Veterans receive a 15% discount on NASE membership and can apply immediately after joining.
5. Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program
Veteran-owned businesses can apply for $10,000 grants after:
- Signing up for the free program.
- Completing two courses or events.
Applications close June 28, 2024.
6. Fast Break for Small Business
In partnership with Accion Opportunity Fund, LegalZoom, and the NBA, this program awards $10,000 grants to 150 entrepreneurs annually. Requirements include:
- Three months in operation.
- Annual revenue under $1 million.
- Active business bank account.
Applications run February 15–September 13, 2024.
7. Pennsylvania/New Jersey Job Creators Quest Grant
This grant offers $50,000 in funding to businesses meeting these requirements:
- Located in PA or NJ.
- Based in low-to-moderate income areas or founded by veterans, LGBTQ+, Black, Asian, or Latinx individuals.
- Annual revenue between $100,000 and $5 million.
Pre-registration is open; applications launch May 2024.
8. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBTT)
These programs fund veteran-owned businesses focused on technological innovation and federal research. Eligibility includes:
- U.S.-based for-profit business with under 500 employees.
9. Grants.gov
This federal database features over 1,000 grant programs from agencies like the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Commerce.
10. GrantWatch
GrantWatch lists hundreds of grants, including those for veterans. Premium memberships unlock advanced features, starting at $18 per week.
11. Southern California Job Creators Grant
Southern California businesses can apply for grants up to $100,000. Eligibility prioritizes veterans, women, and minority entrepreneurs.
12. Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur-Lab
Grand Valley State University offers a three-month training program for Michigan-based veterans. Participants gain skills, network opportunities, and the chance to win grants through a pitch competition.
13. Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund
This grant provides financial support to veterans starting farming or ranching businesses. Membership in the Farmer Veteran Coalition is required.
14. Bizee Fresh Start Business Grant
This startup-focused grant awards $2,500 and business formation services to veteran entrepreneurs.
15. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest
FedEx awards $30,000 grants to 10 businesses annually, with an additional $20,000 for one veteran entrepreneur.
16. Texas Woman’s University Veteran Woman Entrepreneur Grant
This program awards $5,000 to female veteran entrepreneurs in Texas for equipment, marketing, and more.
17. Venmo Small Business Grant
This program awards $10,000 to small businesses with fewer than 10 employees and under $50,000 in annual revenue.
18. U.S. Chamber of Commerce America’s Top Small Business Awards
The grand prize winner receives a $25,000 grant. Businesses must have fewer than 250 employees or gross revenues under $20 million.
19. Feed the Soul Foundation’s Restaurant Business Development Program
This program offers consultation, training, and stipends to food-based businesses owned by veterans and underrepresented groups.
20. eBay Up & Running Grants
eBay awards $10,000 grants to 50 businesses annually. Applications are open until June 7, 2024.
21. Beyond Open Small Business Grant Program
Charlotte-based businesses led by veterans or underrepresented groups can apply for grants starting at $10,000.
By exploring these opportunities, veteran entrepreneurs can find the funding needed to achieve their business goals.