How to Get Grants for a Minority-Owned Business

Securing funding is one of the most significant challenges for any entrepreneur.

For minority business owners, grants offer a powerful opportunity to acquire capital without surrendering equity or taking on debt.

However, the grant landscape can be complex and highly competitive.

This guide provides a straightforward overview of how to find and apply for grants for minority-owned businesses.

We will define key terms, explain the difference between grants and other funding, and list several verified, active grant opportunities available in 2026.

First, What Qualifies as a Minority-Owned Business?

Before searching for grants, it's critical to understand the official definition.

Most government agencies and private foundations use criteria similar to the Small Business Administration (SBA). A business is generally considered minority-owned if it is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by one or more individuals who are U.S. citizens and belong to a designated minority group.

These groups typically include:

  • Black or African American

  • Hispanic or Latino

  • Native American or Alaska Native

  • Asian American

  • Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

Always check the specific eligibility requirements for each grant, as some programs may have a narrower focus (e.g., grants for Black women entrepreneurs).

Not All Funding is a Grant: Certifications and Other Programs

Many resources for minority entrepreneurs are not direct cash grants.

It's important to know the difference to set the right expectations.

  • Grants: A non-repayable sum of money awarded to a business for a specific purpose.

This is free capital but is highly competitive.

  • Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid with interest over time.
  • Certifications: Official recognition that your business meets certain criteria (e.g., SBA 8(a) Business Development program).

This certification does not provide a direct grant but gives you preferential access to federal contracting opportunities.

Understanding these distinctions will help you target the right opportunities for your business needs.

Verified Grants for Minority-Owned Businesses (Early 2026 Deadlines)

Below is a list of verified, active grant programs with upcoming deadlines.

We have confirmed these opportunities through their official sources.

FedEx Small Business Grant Contest

The FedEx Small Business Grant Contest is a well-known annual program that awards grants to small business owners across the United States.

It provides a significant cash prize and FedEx services to help businesses grow and scale their operations.

  • Funder: FedEx Corporation
  • Funding Amount: Up to $50,000 (Grand Prize) plus FedEx print and business services
  • Key Eligibility: U.S.-based, for-profit small businesses in operation for at least six continuous months with fewer than 99 employees.
  • 2026 Deadline: March 31, 2026
  • Application Link: https://www.fedex.com/en-us/small-business/grant-contest.html

Coalition to Back Black Businesses Grant

This initiative, led by American Express and the U.S.

Chamber of Commerce Foundation, provides grants and mentorship to Black-owned small businesses to support their growth and long-term success.

The program distributes grants and offers additional enhancement grants to promising businesses.

  • Funder: U.S.

Chamber of Commerce Foundation & American Express

  • Funding Amount: $5,000 grants, with opportunities for additional $25,000 enhancement grants
  • Key Eligibility: For-profit, Black-owned businesses with 3 to 20 employees located in an economically vulnerable community.
  • 2026 Deadline (Enhancement Grant Cycle): February 28, 2026
  • Application Link: https://webackblackbusinesses.com/

Hello Alice Small Business Growth Fund

Hello Alice is an online platform that provides resources and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Their Small Business Growth Fund, in partnership with various sponsors, offers cash grants to help small business owners take the next step in their growth.

  • Funder: Hello Alice and various corporate partners
  • Funding Amount: Up to $25,000
  • Key Eligibility: For-profit businesses with less than $1 million in annual revenue and a demonstrated commitment to their community.
  • 2026 Deadline: April 15, 2026
  • Application Link: https://helloalice.com/grants/

MBDA Capital Readiness Program

While not a direct grant to individual businesses, this U.S.

Department of Commerce program is a critical resource.

It funds organizations that, in turn, provide technical assistance to minority and underserved entrepreneurs to help them access capital.

Connecting with a grantee in your area can provide invaluable support in preparing for loans and grants.

  • Funder: Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), U.S.

Department of Commerce

  • Funding Amount: This program funds intermediary organizations, not individual businesses.

The value comes from the free technical and business development assistance provided.

  • Key Eligibility: Minority and other underserved entrepreneurs seeking to scale their businesses and access capital.
  • 2026 Deadline: Ongoing program; find a local provider at any time.
  • Application Link: https://www.mbda.gov/capital-readiness-program

A 4-Step Checklist Before You Apply

Finding a grant is only the first step.

Being prepared to apply is what leads to success.

Use this checklist to organize your efforts.

  1. Gather Your Core Documents: Most applications require a business plan, recent financial statements (profit and loss, balance sheet), and your business registration or certification documents.

Have these ready in a digital format.

  1. Read the Guidelines Meticulously: Every grant is different.

Pay close attention to eligibility rules, funding restrictions (what you can and cannot use the money for), and reporting requirements.

  1. Craft a Clear and Compelling Narrative: Your application is a story.

Clearly explain what your business does, who you serve, how the grant funds will help you grow, and what impact that growth will have on your community.

  1. Proofread and Submit Early: Avoid last-minute technical issues.

Review your entire application for typos and errors, and submit it several days before the deadline.

Many grant portals slow down on the final day due to high traffic.