Small business grant opportunities to apply for in October
September 22, 2025
Looking to fund your next big move? October offers a diverse set of grants, accelerators, and resources for entrepreneurs. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling an existing business, here are active opportunities with deadlines this month.
Main Street Acquisition Support Grant (NJEDA)
Amount: up to $50,000
Deadline: 10/1/25
Overview: Offers up to $50,000 in reimbursement to eligible New Jersey small businesses that have purchased a commercial property to operate from. The grant covers closing costs for properties closed on after 10/1/2024.
Madeline Haydon Award for Entrepreneurship
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: 10/1/25
Overview: Two $10,000 awards will be given to promising CPG entrepreneurs. The award supports entrepreneurs whose vision and leadership demonstrate strong growth potential and alignment with Project Potluck’s mission of advancing diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Once Upon a Farm Brand Builder Grant
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: 10/1/25
Overview: One $10,000 grant will be awarded to a CPG entrepreneur with demonstrated innovation, with priority given to businesses headquartered in the Midwest. The grant is designed to accelerate growth for founders building impactful, inclusive brands.
Baked Goods Innovation Award
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: 10/1/25
Overview: One $5,000 grant will be awarded to a brand in the baked goods or baking ingredients category. Priority will be given to founders whose businesses show strong traction and potential for growth while advancing representation and inclusion in CPG.
Motor City Match Grant
Amount: up to $100,000
Deadline: 10/1/25
Overview: Supports Detroit-based entrepreneurs at every stage - from idea to expansion. Offers grants and expert support to help launch or grow businesses in Detroit’s commercial corridors. Winners must commit to staying in Detroit for 3+ years and show job creation or community benefit.
Denver Business Impact Opportunity Fund
Amount: up to $15,000
Deadline: 10/2/25
Overview: Denver Economic Development & Opportunity, in partnership with The Fax Partnership and Mile High United Way, is offering grants up to $15,000 and technical assistance for small businesses impacted by city-funded construction projects.
HuCapital Pitch Competition
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: 10/3/25
Overview: As part of HuCapital Innovation Week in NYC, early-stage U.S.-based tech founders (with a functional MVP) can pitch live for a chance to win $5,000, a VC consultation with sponsor Visible Hands, and recognition on the SEEN 50 list. Preference goes to startups with AI functionality.
KC G.I.F.T. Grant
Amount: up to $100k
Deadline: 10/7/25
Overview: Grants for Black-owned businesses in Kansas City, MO. The $100K grant targets high-performing businesses ready to scale and create local jobs; the $10K grant supports business growth and stability. Includes free small business support services.
Echoing Green Fellowship
Amount: $100k
Deadline: 10/8/25
Overview: Echoing Green backs transformational leaders advancing equity across education, climate justice, human rights, health, and more. Fellows receive $100,000 in seed funding over 18 months, along with leadership development, wellness and mental health resources, and expert professional support. They also gain access to Echoing Green’s lifelong global community of innovators, virtual and in-person convenings, and connections to business leaders committed to social change.
OpenAI Fund for US Nonprofits
Amount: $50M fund
Deadline: 10/8/25
Overview: OpenAI has launched a $50M fund to support U.S.-based nonprofits and community organizations using AI to expand access, improve services, and foster innovation in areas like education, economic opportunity, healthcare, and community-led research. Grants will be unrestricted and open to both established and emerging nonprofits, including those new to AI.
Makers Mindset x The Equity Studio Grant
Amount: $10,000
Deadline: 10/10/25
Overview: Provides $50,000 in equity-free funding to support early-stage, women-led consumer brands in beauty and wellness. Five founders will each receive a $10,000 grant, along with mentorship, community connections, and visibility opportunities designed to help them scale. In addition to capital, recipients gain guidance from experienced leaders, access to a supportive network of entrepreneurs and experts, and exposure through Makers Mindset and The Equity Studio platforms.
City of Raleigh Facade Rehabilitation Grant
Amount: up to $10,000
Deadline: 10/12/25
Overview: This program offers matching reimbursement grants of up to $10,000 to help small business owners and property owners refurbish the exterior of their commercial buildings. Designed to revitalize Downtown and older commercial districts, the grant enhances curb appeal, stimulates local economic activity, and supports long-term growth.
City of Raleigh Building Up-fit Grant
Amount: up to $25,000
Deadline: 10/12/25
Overview: The City of Raleigh’s Building Up-fit Grant supports local economic growth by helping property owners activate vacant or underutilized commercial space within city limits. The matching reimbursement program covers up to 50% of qualified interior construction costs to create new business uses or jobs. Residential properties, franchises, and exterior projects are not eligible.
Mentors + Angels Accelerator
Deadline: 10/15/25
Overview: The m+a Accelerator Program is an 8-week hybrid program designed for overlooked and underrepresented founders, with priority given to women, minorities, veterans, and economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs. Participants benefit from the expertise of experienced corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors, as well as access to a strong angel and seed investor network. The program includes three weekly virtual sessions and two in-person events in New York City (networking and pitch). The accelerator is free to join, takes no equity, and culminates in a Demo Day.
Walmart Spark Good Local Grants
Amount: up to $5,000
Deadline: 10/15/25
Overview: Quarterly grants for organizations addressing local needs. Open to 501(c)(3) charities, public entities, and educational groups; must be Deed-verified and have a Spark Good account.
Purple Line Small Business Grant Program
Amount: up to $50,000
Deadline: 10/24/25
Overview: Operated by the Maryland Department of Transportation, this program provides grants to small businesses located along the Purple Line corridor that are impacted by construction.
U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation Grant
Amount: up to $50,000
Deadline: 10/24/25
Overview: Supports nonprofits improving lives in areas like education, health, and equity. Grants support a wide range of funding requests including specific program needs, capital support, and general operating support.
Breva Thrive Grant for Small Business Growth
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: 10/31/25
Overview: Quarterly grants for U.S.-based small businesses who are having a positive impact in an underrepresented community. One entrepreneur each round receives $5,000 to invest in their business and community.
Women Founders Grant
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: 10/31/25
Overview: $5,000 rolling grants for majority women-founded businesses at any stage, from side hustles to established ventures. Simple application with two questions; $25 non-refundable fee. Winners are chosen based on passion, authenticity, and merit.
Looking for more grants or help applying? Fill out our common app.
