7 great sources for private grants
These annual grants each have their own unique focus. Some grants are specifically for women, others are for veterans, and the rest are open to all qualifying small business owners.
FedEx Small Business Grant Contest -- FedEx runs an annual contest in which small businesses compete to win up to $25,000 in cash and $7,500 in print and business services.
Miller Lite Tap the Future -- Miller Lite beer brand runs an annual competition in which five semifinalists win $20,000 each and the grand prize winner receives a $100,000 development prize. Submissions run from February to mid-April.
National Association for the Self-Employed Growth Grants -- NASE members can apply for $4,000 grants to finance business needs such as creating a website, buying equipment, or hiring part-time help.
Global Innovation Exchange -- This internationally supported organization lists funding opportunities around the world that focus on innovation. Grants are listed on the left side of the page.
Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant Program -- This clothing company offers $10,000 minimum grants to up to 10 women-owned businesses a year.
Amber Grants -- The Amber Grant program makes monthly grants of $500 to women, with an annual $2,500 grant being made to one of the monthly winners.
StreetShares Foundation -- StreetShares, a small-business funding community, has a foundation with a yearly grant competition for businesses owned by veterans, reservists, or active-duty members of the armed forces or the spouse of such a person. There are three grants annually: $2,000, $3,000, and $5,000.
