Top Small-Business Grants in Colorado (UPDATED)

Through several grant programs, Colorado’s small businesses have an exciting opportunity to acquire cash. Although these grants offer “free money” that is not repaid, obtaining them usually takes a committed effort and time away from regular business operations. Fortunately, enterprises in Colorado have the opportunity to investigate grants that are targeted locally in addition to national programs that are available to businesses nationwide.

FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

Businesses that use FedEx shipping services and have fewer than 99 employees are eligible to apply for this corporate grant program. FedEx gives nine extra $20,000 grants and a $50,000 grand yearly prize. Businesses must apply between March 1 and April 1, 2024, and have a current FedEx shipping account open for at least six months to be eligible for the 2024 sweepstakes.

Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME)

Under the direction of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), PRIME offers money to nonprofits and tribal governments, among other organizations, that help underprivileged microentrepreneurs by giving them access to capital, technical support, and training.

The Denver Foundation (TDF) Grants

TDF is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Colorado that serves the seven-county Denver metropolitan area. It provides various grants to lower economic, racial, and ethnic inequalities. Eligible 501(c)(3) NGOs in the Metro Denver region are invited to apply each year during the spring and autumn grant seasons; grant disbursements normally range from $20,000 to $50,000.

Grants.gov

Grants.gov is an excellent resource for finding and applying for federal grants. The website is administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, but it also lists grant opportunities for all federal departments, including the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Energy, the Department of the Interior, and the Agency for International Development.

National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants

Small enterprises can apply for Growth Grants from the nonprofit National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) in sums up to $4,000. Grant money can be utilized for company necessities, including marketing, hiring staff, building expansions, and advertising. Membership in NASE and a comprehensive report outlining the need for funding, how the proceeds will be used, and how it will affect the expansion of your firm are requirements. Each quarter, applications are accepted.

America’s Seed Fund

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provide funding for America’s Seed Fund. Grants ranging from $50,000 to $1.8 million are intended to encourage technological innovation and small businesses. A company must undergo a protracted grant procedure that starts with proof of concept and continues through technology development and the last stage of commercialization.

WomensNet Grants

Throughout the year, the WomensNet awards provide several grants to female entrepreneurs. Monthly prizes of $10,000 are given out as Amber Grants, Startup Grants, and Business Category Grants; annual awards total $25,000. Businesses in the US and Canada are eligible for these funds, and women run at least 50% of them. You can apply for one application and have your application considered for all three grants.

Colorado Springs Grants

The nonprofit Colorado Springs Downtown Development Authority administers several small-business incentives. The following grants may be of interest to small companies in the city’s downtown area:

  • Building Enhancement Grants: $10,000 to $50,000 in grants.
  • Retail Incentive Grants **(up to $50,000 in rewards).
  • Tree Canopy Grants (up to $12,000 in grants).

Conclusion:

Getting a Colorado small business grant might provide your growth and expansion plans a big financial boost. You can improve your chances of success by spending the necessary time to find and analyze the most pertinent grant opportunities, comprehend the requirements for eligibility, and create strong application materials.

 

Recall that although submitting a grant application demands commitment and persistence, the possible benefits make it worthwhile. Use services like the Colorado Small Business Development Centre Network and neighborhood mentors to assist you with the process.

 

Don’t let money stand in the way of realizing your business goals. Take a look at the many Colorado small business grants available and start your journey to new company opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I apply for multiple small business grants simultaneously?

You can apply for multiple grant programs if you meet the respective eligibility criteria and deadlines. However, be mindful of the time and effort required for each application to avoid spreading yourself too thin.

2. Are these grants exclusively for Colorado-based businesses?

While some grants, like those offered by the Denver Foundation and Colorado Springs Downtown Development Authority, are specific to businesses in those regions, several national programs, such as the FedEx Small Business Grant Contest and NASE Growth Grants, are open to companies across the United States.

3. Can grant funds be used for any business purpose?

No, most grants have specific guidelines on utilizing the awarded funds. Common permissible uses include expanding facilities, hiring employees, marketing and advertising, working capital, and funding innovation or technology development. Review the grant program details carefully to ensure compliance.

4. How long does the grant application process typically take?

The duration of the application process can vary significantly depending on the grant program. Local grants may have a shorter turnaround time, while federal grants like America’s Seed Fund can take several months due to the rigorous evaluation process.

5. Are there any resources available to assist with grant applications?

Yes, organizations like the Colorado Small Business Development Center Network and local chambers of commerce often provide guidance and resources to help small businesses complete the grant application process.

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