Business grants and pitches are competitive — as all entrepreneurs are always searching for funding and free exposure. In addition to developing a strategy for applying for grants, entrepreneurs need to identify their purpose and objective for applying for funding.
When focusing on your purpose and objective, think of the SMART acronym, which stands for:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Attainable
- Realistic
- Time-bound
Using the SMART method will help you to get laser-focused on your reason for applying for a grant and how you will use the funding. It will also help you consider revising your sales and marketing initiatives.
In this week’s listing of grants, we will be highlighting programs that support Black entrepreneurs in local and corporate funding.
Jones County Chamber of Commerce Grant
Business owners and residents of Jones County in Mississippi are invited to apply for the Minority Owned Small Business Grant. The grant is for $3,000 and in addition to being a business in Jones County, they must also be a current Mississippi Power customer with less than 50 employees. Learn more here. Applications are due by March 25.
Ladies Who Launch Program
Businesswomen are eligible to receive a $10,000 grant that also includes business education, mentorship opportunities, community, and advisory support and promotion. For more information, visit here and apply by March 28.
EDGE Grant Program for Small Businesses
Delaware-based businesses that have not been in operation for more than five years and have less than 10 employees are eligible to apply for the EDGE Grant Program. Grant funding is available up to $100,000. Interested business owners can learn more here. March 31 is the application deadline.
Gorhman Savings Bank’s LaunchPad
If you are a Maine-based business that is legally registered, you are eligible to participate in Gorhman Savings Bank’s LaunchPad live pitch program. More information can be found here. Applications are due by March 31.
Techstars Anywhere Accelerator
The Techstars accelerator program is on a mission to support entrepreneurs find success. In a three-month program, the organization matches businesses with mentors as well as a network of potential corporate partners, investors, and program alumni. Learn more here and apply by April 6.
Essence x Pine-Sol Build Your Legacy
Essence is partnering with Pine-Sol to be awarded a $100,000 Legacy Award to support the entrepreneurial spirit of Black women. Learn more here. Applications are due by April 16.
Jobber Grants For Home Service Businesses
Are you launching or currently running a home-based business? If so, Jobber Grants is awarding grants to entrepreneurs at every stage of their development. Grants awards range from $2,500 to $15,000 and are open to entrepreneurs 18 years and older residing in the United States and Canada, excluding Quebec. More information can be found here. Apply by May 26.
