![5 Small Business Grants to Apply for Right Now [December 2025]](https://smallbusinessxchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/AdobeStock_603675589-scaled.jpeg "5 Small Business Grants to Apply for Right Now [December 2025]")
Small business grants provide crucial funding that doesn’t need to be repaid, but securing these opportunities can be highly competitive. To help you navigate the current landscape, we’ve curated five small business grants currently accepting applications. Each offers unique benefits and eligibility criteria, ensuring there’s an opportunity for every type of business.
Let’s explore these funding opportunities that could give your business the boost it needs to thrive and grow.
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1. Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant
As part of its Digital Ready Program, Verizon offers $10,000 grants to small businesses. The program, created in partnership with LISC, supports entrepreneurs who complete two eligible courses or virtual events through Verizon’s free Digital Ready platform.
Award and Benefits
- $10,000 grant to support your business.
- Access to a free online curriculum that includes expert coaching and peer networking.
- Resources to help small business owners improve their digital readiness.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a for-profit small business based in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- Business owner must be 18 or older.
- Must register on the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform and complete two eligible courses or virtual events.
- Priority is given to applicants who have not previously received a grant from this program.
Deadline
Dec. 10, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PST
2. Faire Small Business Grant
The Faire Small Business Grant program provides $5,000 grants to help new retail businesses stock their shelves with high-quality inventory.
Award and Benefits
- $5,000 in Faire.com credit to purchase wholesale inventory.
- Credit must be used within six months for inventory purchases on the platform.
- Access to a wide range of wholesale brands to help build your store’s product selection.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a U.S.-based independent retail store owner.
- Store must have opened within the last year or plan to open this year.
- Applicants must provide business details, financial information, and a short video about their store vision.
Deadline
Dec. 31, 2025
3. Secretsos™ Small Business Grant
The Secretsos™ Small Business Grant offers $2,500 to help entrepreneurs overcome challenges and accelerate their growth. This grant is designed for business owners who are often overlooked by traditional funding sources, providing accessible support whether you’re just starting out or preparing for a major expansion.
Award and Benefits
- $2,500 in funding with full discretion on how to use it.
- Support for businesses at any stage, from startup to growth phase.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Business owner must be at least 21 years old.
- Must operate in an eligible U.S. state.
- Designed to support entrepreneurs who may face barriers with traditional funding.
Deadline
Dec. 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CST
4. Intuit QuickBooks x Mailchimp Small Business Hero Program
The Intuit QuickBooks and Mailchimp Small Business Hero Program awards grants to U.S. small businesses that demonstrate courage, perseverance, and integrity. Three winners are chosen each quarter to receive funding and resources to help grow their business.
Award and Benefits
- $20,000 grant.
- Promotion and resources to help scale your business.
- Recognition for making a positive impact in your community.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a U.S. small business owner aged 18 or older.
- Nominations are open to anyone who wants to recognize a small business hero in their community.
- Winners are selected based on their story of resilience and community impact.
Deadline
The current round is open through Feb. 14, 2026.
5. 500 Global Flagship Accelerator Program
Startups and small businesses can apply year-round to the 500 Global Flagship Accelerator program. This program offers businesses the opportunity for a four-month accelerator program based in San Francisco, along with a significant investment.
Award and Benefits
- A $150,000 investment for your business.
- Participation in a four-month accelerator program.
- Mentorship and resources from a global network of experts.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Open to startups and small businesses.
- Program is based in San Francisco.
- Applicants are evaluated for their growth potential and business model.
Deadline
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Start Growing with Small Business Grants
With careful preparation and a strong application, you could secure the funding needed to transform your business in 2026. Each of these grants offers unique advantages, so consider applying to multiple programs if you meet the eligibility criteria.
For additional help with your application process, reach out to your local Small Business Development Center. SBDC experts can provide guidance on grant writing, business planning, and application strategies.
Good luck with your applications!
This article was originally published May 2025. It was last updated November 2025.
