Business Grant Alerts: August/September Opportunities

Free funding is still on the table.

If you’ve been putting off grant applications, now’s the time to take action. August and September bring a new wave of funding opportunities, many of which are tailored to women-owned, minority-owned, and mission-driven businesses seeking to scale, innovate, or recover.

Whether you need capital for hiring, tech upgrades, training, or expansion, here’s your curated list of grants still open for application in late summer 2025.

1. Amber Grant – August + September Awards

Deadline: Rolling, with monthly winners

Grant Amount: $10,000/month + $25,000 annual grant

Who It’s For: Women entrepreneurs in the U.S. and Canada

The Amber Grant is one of the most accessible grants for women-owned businesses. It’s awarded monthly and includes an end-of-year bonus award to one of the monthly winners. There are also specialty grants for nonprofits, solo entrepreneurs, and specific industries.

2. Backing Small Business Grant (by American Express & Main Street America)

Deadline: August 30, 2025 (estimated)

Grant Amount: $10,000

Who It’s For: Small businesses in older or historic commercial districts, especially those led by underrepresented entrepreneurs

Ideal for brick-and-mortar businesses looking to enhance their spaces, improve operations, or fund revitalization projects.

3. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

Deadline: Expected late August 2025 (watch for updates)

Grant Amount: Up to $30,000

Who It’s For: U.S.-based for-profit small businesses with fewer than 99 employees

FedEx’s highly competitive grant program rewards innovation and growth. Winners also receive FedEx credits and visibility through national media. A strong pitch video and social media engagement help you stand out.

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

Deadline: Quarterly (next round closes Sept 30, 2025)

Grant Amount: Up to $4,000

Who It’s For: NASE members (membership required)

Great for solopreneurs and microbusinesses. Funds can be used for marketing, hiring, equipment, or expansion. Low barrier to apply, but you must be a paid member to qualify.

5. Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program

Deadline: September 13, 2025

Grant Amount: $5,000 + 1-year fellowship

Who It’s For: Early-stage women entrepreneurs

This program offers more than just a grant; it’s a comprehensive leadership development experience, encompassing community engagement, mentorship, and business education. It’s perfect for founders scaling with intention.

6. USDA Rural Business Development Grants

Deadline: Varies by state, typically August–September

Grant Amount: Varies (up to $500,000)

Who It’s For: Rural small businesses and nonprofits

Targeted at businesses in rural areas looking to grow local economic impact. Funds can support training, infrastructure, and expansion. Must work with your state USDA office to apply.

Bonus: Search Local + Niche Opportunities

Don't forget to look for:

State and county-level grants (via economic development councils)

Chamber of Commerce or SBA-partnered programs

Industry-specific grants for tech, agriculture, arts, and construction

Corporate grant programs from organizations like Verizon, Comcast, and Visa

Tip: Use GrantWatch.com or HelloAlice.com to stay updated.

Quick Tips for a Winning Application

Tell a compelling story: Why now? Why you?

Include real numbers: Revenue, impact, growth plan

Stick to deadlines and double-check requirements

Save your grant answers in a doc to repurpose across applications

Get testimonials or supporting data if possible

Final Thoughts

Grants aren’t just about cash; they’re about credibility, visibility, and capacity. Even small grants can help you level up operations, marketing, or staffing without taking on debt or giving up equity.

Set a goal to apply to at least two of the above before September ends. Your next big opportunity might be one application away.