7 Best Startup Business Grants USA

Starting a business can be exciting but also financially challenging. Many US startups struggle to find the funding they need to launch and grow without giving away equity or taking on debt. That’s where startup business grants come to the rescue. Grants provide non-repayable funding that can make a huge difference in turning your idea into a sustainable business. In 2025, the USA offers a variety of grants targeted specifically at startups in different industries and stages.

I’m Riten, founder of Fueler, a platform that helps freelancers and professionals get hired through their work samples. In this article, I’ve highlighted some of the best startup business grants available in the USA. Beyond knowing where the funding is, remember that presenting your startup’s progress and capabilities smartly through your portfolio is essential. Your portfolio isn’t just a collection of projects, it’s your proof of skill, your credibility, and your shortcut to trust.

Why Startup Grants Matter for US Entrepreneurs in 2025

Unlike loans or investments, grants do not need repayment or giving up equity, making them particularly valuable for early-stage startups seeking capital without financial risk. They also help startups build credibility and open doors to mentors, partnerships, and further funding. Grants typically require a strong business proposal and tangible milestones, encouraging entrepreneurs to sharpen their business plans.

Benefits of Startup Grants:

• Non-dilutive and non-repayable funding
• Access to mentorship and business support programs
• Credibility boost with prestigious grants
• Opportunity to validate and scale products

Why it matters: For US startups in 2025, grants provide a risk-free capital injection that empowers growth with confidence and partnership potential.

7 Best Startup Business Grants in the USA for 2025

1. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program

SBIR is a highly competitive federal grant program that offers funding to startups focused on scientific research and technological innovation. It supports startups creating novel products with commercial potential, spanning industries like healthcare, energy, and defense.

Features:

• Phase-based grants supporting R&D from concept to commercialization
• Access to federal research contracts
• Opportunities to collaborate with government agencies
• Strong support network and mentorship

Funding:

• Phase I grants up to $150,000
• Phase II grants up to $1 million+

Why it matters: SBIR helps US tech startups innovate with significant funding and government partnership, accelerating high-impact product development.

2. National Science Foundation (NSF) Small Business Grants

NSF supports early-stage research-based startups through grants encouraging high-risk, high-reward innovation. NSF grants focus on science and engineering ventures with market potential and societal benefit.

Features:

• Funding programs like I-Corps and SBIR/STTR
• Focus on STEM and technology innovation
• Access to NSF entrepreneurial support resources
• Collaboration opportunities with universities

Funding:

• Range from $50,000 to $1 million depending on phase

Why it matters: NSF grants are vital for US startups in STEM fields wanting to prove commercial viability with substantial government backing.

3. The Amber Grant

The Amber Grant is awarded monthly by WomensNet to women entrepreneurs and startup founders across the US. It’s designed to provide small, accessible capital to empower women-led businesses in the earliest stages.

Features:

• Monthly $10,000 grant with annual $25,000 grand prize
• Support network and mentorship opportunities
• Open to all industries and women entrepreneurs

Funding:

• $10,000 monthly grant
• $25,000 annual grant for one winner

Why it matters: For women-led startups in the USA, the Amber Grant offers early capital with visibility and support.

4. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

FedEx offers an annual competition awarding cash grants and FedEx services to American small businesses with outstanding potential. This highly publicized contest helps winners gain funding and marketing support.

Features:

• Cash prize grants ranging from $15,000 to $50,000
• FedEx shipping credits and support
• Publicity and marketing exposure nationwide
• Open to US-based startups and small businesses

Funding:

• $15,000 to $50,000 prizes

Why it matters: FedEx grants give startups in the USA financial and brand exposure boosts to accelerate growth and sales.

5. Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant

Eileen Fisher supports women entrepreneurs focusing on social, environmental, or economic impact businesses. It helps women founders grow their mission-driven startups with cash and professional support.

Features:

• Grants ranging between $10,000 and $100,000
• Emphasis on sustainability and social good
• Mentorship and community building

Funding:

• Up to $100,000 per grant cycle

Why it matters: This grant is a game-changer for women-led startups in the US wanting to align profit with purpose and impact.

6. The Halstead Grant

The Halstead Grant supports jewelry designers and artists with funding and business coaching. It helps creative entrepreneurs in the US build viable businesses leveraging their craft.

Features:

• Annual grants up to $7,500
• Business advice and mentorship
• Recognition in the jewelry and design community

Funding:

• $7,500 maximum grant amount

Why it matters: For US creative entrepreneurs, The Halstead Grant offers essential seed funding and industry credibility.

7. Startup Incubator and Accelerator Grants

Many US incubators and accelerators offer grant opportunities alongside mentorship and networking. Programs like Techstars, Y Combinator, and 500 Startups provide some equity-free grants or stipends to selected startups.

Features:

• Access to funding, mentorship, and investor networks
• Business development workshops and networking
• Comprehensive startup growth programs

Funding:

• Varies; some provide $20,000+ equity-free funding

Why it matters: Accelerator grants allow US startups to grow fast with structured support and non-dilutive capital.

Fueler’s Role in Showcasing Your Grant-Winning Projects

Winning or applying for grants is only half the battle. How you showcase your funded projects and startup journey is crucial for attracting further investors, clients, or partners. Fueler enables entrepreneurs to build portfolios that highlight success stories, prototypes, and impact metrics—turning your grant achievements into undeniable proof of your startup’s potential.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, startup grants in the USA open doors to financial support without giving up control or incurring debt. From government-funded innovation programs to competitions focused on women entrepreneurs and creatives, grants empower startups at every stage. Combining grant funding with a strong, curated portfolio on Fueler creates powerful momentum for your success journey.

FAQs

1. What are the best grants for tech startups in the USA in 2025?

SBIR and NSF grants are the top options offering significant funding and innovation support.

2. Can women entrepreneurs get special startup grants?

Yes, grants like the Amber Grant and Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant specifically support women entrepreneurs.

3. Do I need to repay startup grants?

No, startup grants are non-repayable funding meant to support business growth.

4. How can I apply for federal startup grants?

Applications typically require a detailed business plan, innovation proof, and compliance with eligibility criteria.

5. How does having a portfolio help with grants and funding?

Showcasing your projects and milestones through portfolios built on platforms like Fueler boosts credibility and trust with investors and partners.

What is Fueler Portfolio?

Fueler is a career portfolio platform that helps companies find the best talent for their organization based on their proof of work. You can create your portfolio on Fueler, thousands of freelancers around the world use Fueler to create their professional-looking portfolios and become financially independent. Discover inspiration for your portfolio

Sign up for free on Fueler or get in touch to learn more.