Grants and Loans for Small Businesses in 2025

Funding remains one of the biggest hurdles for new and growing businesses. Thankfully, there are plenty of grants and loans for small businesses available in 2025—from government-backed programs to private initiatives supporting undeserved and early-stage entrepreneurs.

This guide breaks down the most reliable and accessible funding sources for small business owners in 2025, along with tips for increasing your chances of approval.

💰 Top Small Business Grants in 2025

1. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grant

For tech, research, and science-focused startups

Government-funded by agencies like NASA, NIH, and DoD
Grants from $50,000 to $500,000+
Non-dilute (you retain ownership)

✅ Apply at: sbir.gov

2. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

National contest offering up to $50,000 in grants

For U.S.-based small businesses
Requires a strong story and online presence

✅ Apply at: FedEx.com/grant-contest

3. Hello Alice Grant Programs

Ongoing funding for women, LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, veterans, and people of color

Grants between $5,000 and $25,000
Personalized alerts for relevant funding

✅ Apply at: helloalice.com/grants

4. Local and State Economic Development Grants

Grants for business relocation, job creation, and community development

Vary by region and industry
Ideal for rural and undeserved areas

✅ Visit your local economic development agency or Chamber of Commerce

5. Comcast RISE

Support for small businesses owned by Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, Asian American, women, LGBTQ+, and other underrepresented entrepreneurs

Offers grants, marketing help, and tech upgrades

✅ Apply at: comcastrise.com

🏦 Best Loan Options for Small Businesses in 2025

1. SBA 7(a) Loans

Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration

Up to $5 million
Competitive interest rates and long repayment terms

✅ Available through SBA-approved lenders

2. SBA Microloans

Great for startups and small-scale businesses

Loans up to $50,000
Often offered through nonprofit lenders

✅ Learn more at: sba.gov

3. Business Term Loans

Traditional financing with fixed monthly payments

Offered by banks and online lenders
Ideal for equipment, expansion, and hiring

Popular lenders: Fund box, Blue Vine, On Deck

4. Business Line of Credit

Flexible funding you can draw from as needed

Only pay interest on what you use
Great for managing cash flow

Recommended platforms: Kabbage, Lendio, Fundera

5. Startup Loans from Online Lenders

For businesses with little or no revenue

Loans from $5,000 to $100,000
Fast approval and funding

Best options: Accion Opportunity Fund, Funding Circle, Lending Club

📋 How to Improve Your Approval Chances

Create a strong business plan
Maintain good personal and business credit
Organize key documents (bank statements, tax returns, legal structure)
Be honest and realistic about your funding needs
Start small and build credibility

📌 Conclusion

In 2025, entrepreneurs have access to a wide variety of grants and loans for small businesses, including programs tailored to women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and business owners from historically undeserved communities.

With the right strategy and persistence, you can secure the funding you need to bring your business goals to life.