Each month, the Awesome Foundation awards grants of $1,000 to individuals and groups looking to fund various projects. The Awesome Foundation is made up of 84 independently run chapters, with members contributing to a microfunding pool that goes towards grant projects. Though funding is not limited to businesses, startups, and small businesses have been among the recipients of the monthly grants. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
U.S.-based small business owners can apply for a monthly $500 grant from The Freed Fellowship. Applicants are evaluated based on the 5C Framework, which assesses various aspects of applicants’ business. Along with the grant, applicants receive feedback on their business and a two-month free membership in the Freed Studio, a community of ambitious business owners. Grant recipients are also eligible for an end-of-year grant of $2,500.
The Intuit QuickBooks and Mailchimp Small Business Hero Program awards $20,000 grants to U.S. small businesses with owners aged 18 or older that show courage, perseverance, and integrity. Three winners are chosen each quarter and receive both funding and resources to help grow their business. Nominations are open to anyone who wants to recognize a small business hero in their community. The current round is open through May 15, 2026.
Small businesses often feel the effects of a natural disaster the hardest. It can be difficult when starting a business to suddenly have to raise money to repair a roof or attend to flood damage. To help offset some of these concerns and costs, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and FedEx have teamed up to create the Small Business Readiness for Resiliency (R4R) Program. The program helps small businesses put plans in place to prepare for disaster and also provides immediate emergency funding when necessary. Businesses are asked to complete a four-step process to be eligible for funding opportunities.
Famous Amos and the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. are partnering to launch the Famous Amos Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative, an annual national program in its fourth year that provides a total of $150,000 in capital awards, mentorship, and educational resources to Black early-stage businesses. Application deadline is June 1, 2026 at 11 p.m.