{"id":73935,"date":"2026-01-27T09:05:18","date_gmt":"2026-01-27T14:05:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/?p=73935"},"modified":"2026-01-27T21:00:13","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T02:00:13","slug":"business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/","title":{"rendered":"Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Business Grants 101:<\/strong> What They Are and How They Work? In <strong>Business Grants 101<\/strong>, you&#8217;ll discover that business grants are one of the most attractive funding options available to entrepreneurs &#8211; especially startups &#8211; because they do not need to be repaid. That alone makes them a powerful financial resource for businesses looking to launch, grow, or expand without taking on additional debt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Understanding Eligibility Is Key<\/strong>: Meeting a grant&#8217;s eligibility requirements is essential to have a realistic chance of success. Each funding source sets its own criteria, which may include business size, industry, location, ownership type, or mission-driven impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>GrantWatch<\/strong><\/a>, the leading grant listing website, helps simplify this process by identifying grants that match your specific business needs. GrantWatch also provides tools to help you determine your eligibility before you apply &#8211; saving time and improving efficiency. Currently, GrantWatch lists 1,700+ grants in its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/cat\/13\/small-business-grants.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Small Business<\/strong><\/a> grants category.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below is a selection of business development grants, in-kind support opportunities, and achievement awards that are currently available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Sample Business Grants, In-Kind Support, Opportunities and Awards<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grant\/221354\/grants-and-in-kind-services-to-usa-small-businesses-to-honor-their-community-impact.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Grants and In-Kind Support to Recognize Small Business Community Impact<\/strong><\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>The program awards $20,000, along with in-kind services, to small businesses in recognition of their positive impact on their communities. A third party must nominate businesses that demonstrate a history of integrity, perseverance, and community involvement. Awardees will also receive free access to online communication tools, marketing platforms, and accounting software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grant\/167041\/grants-and-in-kind-donations-to-usa-veterans-for-farming-business-assistance.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Grants and In-Kind Donations to Veterans to Grow Farming or Ranching Businesses<\/strong><\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Veteran-owned agricultural businesses will receive grants of up to $5,000, plus in-kind equipment. This program supports veterans entering the farming or ranching industries through donations or purchases of livestock, vehicles, equipment, and essential supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grant\/172471\/grants-to-usa-agricultural-businesses-to-develop-and-market-value-added-agricultural-products.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Grants to Develop and Market Value-Added Agricultural Products<\/strong><\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Agricultural producers, cooperatives, and groups will receive funding to expand market opportunities and increase income through value-added activities. The goal of the program is to generate new products, use innovation to create and expand marketing opportunities, and strengthen rural economies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grant\/188787\/grants-and-in-kind-support-to-usa-early-stage-jewelry-designers-for-activities-to-promote-business-development.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Business Development Grants and In-Kind Support for Early-Stage Jewelry Designers<\/strong><\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Early-stage jewelry designers &#8211; especially those working primarily in silver &#8211; will receive grants and in-kind support for career-building and business development activities. The purpose of the program is to help emerging artists promote and grow their creative businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"block-b7ebe942-7cce-465f-bb5e-aca0ff6ddb82\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grant\/198973\/opportunity-for-usa-and-canada-health-related-startup-companies-to-participate-in-a-business-development-program.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Business Development Opportunities for Healthcare Startups<\/strong><\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p id=\"block-b7ebe942-7cce-465f-bb5e-aca0ff6ddb82\">Healthcare startups will have the opportunity to participate in a business development program. The program connects innovative health technology companies with capital, mentorship, and strategic partnerships. The goal is to foster growth and innovation within the healthcare industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grant\/151419\/awards-to-usa-canada-and-international-women-entrepreneurs-to-recognize-achievements-and-support-business-growth.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong> Achievement Awards and Business Growth Support for Women Entrepreneurs<\/strong><\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>The program honors women entrepreneurs with awards for achievements and support for business development and growth. Awards go to women-owned and women-led businesses demonstrating strong, sustainable social and\/or environmental impact. Recipients get financial support, training, coaching, workshops, peer learning, and access to a supportive community of experts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bottom Line<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>This <strong>Business Grants 101<\/strong> overview provides a snapshot of what\u2019s involved in securing grant funding. From understanding eligibility to navigating applications, the grant process can be complex. But with the right tools, the process becomes far more manageable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>GrantWatch can help you identify, refine, and target grant opportunities that align with your business goals. In this way, you will be brought one step closer to securing the funding you need to succeed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"block-0050394e-2b8e-45a2-a125-229154d65a05\"><strong>About GrantWatch<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p id=\"block-444d0960-a635-4c3d-93ea-4fa37d1c66ce\"><a href=\"https:\/\/libbyhikind.com\/book-details.php?id=14&amp;title=the-queen-of-grants-from-teacher-to-grant-writer-to-ceo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em><strong>Libby Hikind<\/strong><\/em><\/a>, author of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Queen-Grants-Teacher-Grant-Writer\/dp\/B0CTGSC12Q?crid=ZKKM059BC7BA&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vRtKLKhI_nmUnMdiMzDMpGYxlHqVYKqE3x90LhPsJsnmxINmzPIn_RWKpSwLBoQm6423Dmh8qmb7gWQcYgMfiEePAPMYxEKRwVOvblR-qd_2QIPJMM7JzV0uPenfW-27QnkxUhxVuOV1lNB-b_OlmrcE5axh7WVq3V0JFq5U3W5a70B2JnENtW2Lmwr8KK2ErP80_Lm7GOwG4MIVOsgW-SRaKdfAzFhf5X7RYCnuYEU.Ql5cdBXLJUD3WE_yM9-9c1YU9LED1PP5uytswmof9xw&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=queen+of+grants&amp;qid=1750860290&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=queen+of+grants,stripbooks,142&amp;sr=1-1&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=grantnepress-20&amp;linkId=f10f179795ca20786ef434fdaaf7b797&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em><strong>The Queen of Grants: From Teacher to Grant Writer to CEO<\/strong><\/em><\/a>, founded&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em><strong>GrantWatch.com<\/strong><\/em><\/a>, the largest advanced grant search engine in the United States. The platform features over 10,000 active, verified, and human-curated grant opportunities in more than 60 funding categories. Additionally, it lists&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grants-for-nonprofits\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>grants for&nbsp;<em>nonprofits<\/em><\/strong><\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grants-for-small-business\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>grants for&nbsp;<em>small businesses<\/em><\/strong><\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grants-for-government\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>grants for&nbsp;<em>government agencies<\/em><\/strong><\/a>, and&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grants-for-individuals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">grants for<em>&nbsp;Individuals<\/em><\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p id=\"block-444d0960-a635-4c3d-93ea-4fa37d1c66ce\">GrantWatch also offers innovative funding tools like the&nbsp;<em><strong>AI Grant Writing Tool<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>AI Grant Searching Tool<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>My Grant Calendar<\/strong><\/em>, making it easier to find grants, track deadlines, and draft proposals. Members can upgrade to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/plans.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em><strong>MemberPlus+<\/strong><\/em><\/a>&nbsp;for complete grant details, eligibility criteria, and application information. With 21 powerful features, live customer support, and weekly&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/granttalk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em><strong>GrantTalk<\/strong><\/em><\/a>&nbsp;podcast episodes, GrantWatch is the go-to resource for finding grants and turning funding opportunities into awarded grants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Libby is also the author of several children\u2019s books and companion coloring books, available at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/libbyhikind.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>libbyhikind.com<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work? In Business Grants 101, you&#8217;ll discover that business grants are<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1935,"featured_media":74137,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[138,124,118],"tags":[6296,6292,6298,117,6290,6288,6293,6300,6278,6299,208,6289,1362,21,236,6291,6277,6301,6294,6295,6276,783,6302,6279,6297,6280],"class_list":["post-73935","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business","category-community","category-grants","tag-accounting-software","tag-achievement-awards","tag-agricultural-producers","tag-business","tag-business-development-grants","tag-business-grants-101","tag-community-involvement","tag-cooperatives","tag-early-stage-jewelry-business-development","tag-early-stage-jewelry-designers","tag-entrepreneurs","tag-expand-without-taking-on-additional-debt","tag-grant-funding","tag-grants","tag-grantwatch","tag-in-kind-support-opportunities","tag-market-value-added-agricultural-products","tag-marketing-opportunities","tag-marketing-platforms","tag-online-communication-tools","tag-small-business-community-impact","tag-startups","tag-strengthen-rural-economies","tag-support-healthcare-startups","tag-veteran-owned-agricultural-businesses","tag-women-entrepreneur-business-growth"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.8.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"In Business Grants 101, you&#039;ll find that grants don&#039;t need to be re-paid, so they are a great resource, especially for startup companies.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"In Business Grants 101, you&#039;ll find that grants don&#039;t need to be re-paid, so they are a great resource, especially for startup companies.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"GrantNews\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/GrantWatch\/162625900556850\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-01-27T14:05:18+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-01-28T02:00:13+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_Facebook_1200x630_12.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2400\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1260\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Lori\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@grantwatch\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@grantwatch\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Lori\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"4 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"NewsArticle\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Lori\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/person\/e373e9d9a4315f24a562621cf719ce89\"},\"headline\":\"Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-01-27T14:05:18+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-01-28T02:00:13+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/\"},\"wordCount\":728,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_img-950x650_12.webp\",\"keywords\":[\"accounting software\",\"achievement awards\",\"Agricultural producers\",\"business\",\"business development grants\",\"Business Grants 101\",\"community involvement\",\"cooperatives\",\"early-stage jewelry business development\",\"Early-stage jewelry designers\",\"entrepreneurs\",\"expand without taking on additional debt\",\"grant funding\",\"grants\",\"GrantWatch\",\"in-kind support opportunities\",\"market value-added agricultural products\",\"marketing opportunities\",\"marketing platforms\",\"online communication tools\",\"small business community impact\",\"Startups\",\"strengthen rural economies\",\"support healthcare startups\",\"Veteran-owned agricultural businesses\",\"women entrepreneur business growth\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Business\",\"Community\",\"Grants\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/\",\"name\":\"Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_img-950x650_12.webp\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-01-27T14:05:18+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-01-28T02:00:13+00:00\",\"description\":\"In Business Grants 101, you'll find that grants don't need to be re-paid, so they are a great resource, especially for startup companies.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_img-950x650_12.webp\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_img-950x650_12.webp\",\"width\":950,\"height\":650,\"caption\":\"Group of professionals in a meeting room gathered around a flip chart titled \u201cLearn How Business Grants Work.\u201d The chart reads \u201cBusiness Grants 101\u201d and displays colorful charts, a business plan diagram, and the GrantWatch logo circled in red, as one person presents and others listen attentively.\"},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/\",\"name\":\"GrantNews\",\"description\":\"Powered By GrantWatch\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#organization\",\"name\":\"GrantWatch\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/GW.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/GW.jpg\",\"width\":400,\"height\":120,\"caption\":\"GrantWatch\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/GrantWatch\/162625900556850\",\"https:\/\/x.com\/grantwatch\",\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/grantswatch\/\",\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/grantwatch-com\",\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/applyforgrants\",\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UC8YAavtZreMRWx67Zkt-Kkg\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/person\/e373e9d9a4315f24a562621cf719ce89\",\"name\":\"Lori\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d6815b7fe15d2a82a941a3a282476e78f0276ba39f25a277fd006d79af24e5fc?s=96&d=identicon&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d6815b7fe15d2a82a941a3a282476e78f0276ba39f25a277fd006d79af24e5fc?s=96&d=identicon&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Lori\"},\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/author\/lori\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work","description":"In Business Grants 101, you'll find that grants don't need to be re-paid, so they are a great resource, especially for startup companies.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work","og_description":"In Business Grants 101, you'll find that grants don't need to be re-paid, so they are a great resource, especially for startup companies.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/","og_site_name":"GrantNews","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/GrantWatch\/162625900556850","article_published_time":"2026-01-27T14:05:18+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-01-28T02:00:13+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2400,"height":1260,"url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_Facebook_1200x630_12.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Lori","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@grantwatch","twitter_site":"@grantwatch","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Lori","Est. reading time":"4 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"NewsArticle","@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/"},"author":{"name":"Lori","@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/person\/e373e9d9a4315f24a562621cf719ce89"},"headline":"Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work","datePublished":"2026-01-27T14:05:18+00:00","dateModified":"2026-01-28T02:00:13+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/"},"wordCount":728,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_img-950x650_12.webp","keywords":["accounting software","achievement awards","Agricultural producers","business","business development grants","Business Grants 101","community involvement","cooperatives","early-stage jewelry business development","Early-stage jewelry designers","entrepreneurs","expand without taking on additional debt","grant funding","grants","GrantWatch","in-kind support opportunities","market value-added agricultural products","marketing opportunities","marketing platforms","online communication tools","small business community impact","Startups","strengthen rural economies","support healthcare startups","Veteran-owned agricultural businesses","women entrepreneur business growth"],"articleSection":["Business","Community","Grants"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/","url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/","name":"Business Grants 101: What They Are and How They Work","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_img-950x650_12.webp","datePublished":"2026-01-27T14:05:18+00:00","dateModified":"2026-01-28T02:00:13+00:00","description":"In Business Grants 101, you'll find that grants don't need to be re-paid, so they are a great resource, especially for startup companies.","inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business-grants-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_img-950x650_12.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_img-950x650_12.webp","width":950,"height":650,"caption":"Group of professionals in a meeting room gathered around a flip chart titled \u201cLearn How Business Grants Work.\u201d The chart reads \u201cBusiness Grants 101\u201d and displays colorful charts, a business plan diagram, and the GrantWatch logo circled in red, as one person presents and others listen attentively."},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/","name":"GrantNews","description":"Powered By GrantWatch","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#organization","name":"GrantWatch","url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/GW.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/GW.jpg","width":400,"height":120,"caption":"GrantWatch"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/GrantWatch\/162625900556850","https:\/\/x.com\/grantwatch","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/grantswatch\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/grantwatch-com","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/applyforgrants","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UC8YAavtZreMRWx67Zkt-Kkg"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/person\/e373e9d9a4315f24a562621cf719ce89","name":"Lori","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d6815b7fe15d2a82a941a3a282476e78f0276ba39f25a277fd006d79af24e5fc?s=96&d=identicon&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d6815b7fe15d2a82a941a3a282476e78f0276ba39f25a277fd006d79af24e5fc?s=96&d=identicon&r=g","caption":"Lori"},"url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/author\/lori\/"}]}},"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/178_img-950x650_12.webp","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pck2w8-jev","jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":57497,"url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/top-10-kickstarter-grants-for-your-startup-business\/","url_meta":{"origin":73935,"position":0},"title":"Top 10 Grants to Kickstart Your Startup Business!","author":"Staff Writer","date":"January 3, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Looking for grants to kickstart your business? Finding and applying for business grants can be challenging for both new and established businesses. Startup grants, in particular, can be tough to locate, and the application process often feels long and tedious. To make things easier, GrantWatch has compiled a list of\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Business&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Business","link":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/KickstartArticle800x445.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/KickstartArticle800x445.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/KickstartArticle800x445.jpg?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/KickstartArticle800x445.jpg?resize=700%2C400&ssl=1 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":72930,"url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/how-to-get-foundations-to-fund-your-business-with-grants\/","url_meta":{"origin":73935,"position":1},"title":"How to Get Foundations to Fund Your Business With Grants","author":"Lori","date":"December 29, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Many businesses look to foundations to fund special projects and spark growth, especially when they have a clear mission, measurable community impact, or an innovative solution. While many entrepreneurs assume grants are only available to nonprofits, thousands of private and corporate foundations provide funding to for-profit businesses each year. The\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Business&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Business","link":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Business team meeting in a modern office, applauding as a presenter stands beside a flip chart with charts and the GrantWatch logo. Text overlay reads \u201cGet Foundation Grants For Your Business,\u201d highlighting funding opportunities for businesses.","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/158_img-950x650_7.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/158_img-950x650_7.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/158_img-950x650_7.webp?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/158_img-950x650_7.webp?resize=700%2C400&ssl=1 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":73185,"url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/the-ultimate-guide-to-securing-grants-for-your-startup-business\/","url_meta":{"origin":73935,"position":2},"title":"The Ultimate Guide to Securing Grants for Your Startup Business","author":"Lori","date":"December 31, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"When looking to secure grants for your startup business, it\u2019s helpful to have a clear guide to point you in the right direction. A focused approach allows you to be more efficient, saving time and reducing the financial strain that often comes with early-stage growth. With the right grant opportunities,\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Business&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Business","link":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"A diverse group of young professionals gathered around a table, smiling and collaborating as one person reads a book titled \u201cStart-Up Grants Guide,\u201d with the headline text above them reading \u201cSecure Funding For Your Start-Up Business.\u201d","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/162_img-950x650_7.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/162_img-950x650_7.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/162_img-950x650_7.webp?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/162_img-950x650_7.webp?resize=700%2C400&ssl=1 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":60512,"url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/small-business-starter-kit-tools-and-tips-for-new-entrepreneurs\/","url_meta":{"origin":73935,"position":3},"title":"Small Business Starter Kit: Tools and Tips for New Entrepreneurs","author":"Lori","date":"March 27, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Small business tools and starter kits turn your ideas into a thriving ventures. They help you plan, build, and grow your small business effectively. From securing funding to streamlining operations, having the right resources can set you up for success. To get started, explore our list of must-have tools for\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Business&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Business","link":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Small Business & Independent Consultant Network","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/tips_img-950x650_T.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/tips_img-950x650_T.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/tips_img-950x650_T.webp?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/tips_img-950x650_T.webp?resize=700%2C400&ssl=1 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":61429,"url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/5-grants-for-small-businesses-and-entrepreneurs-this-spring\/","url_meta":{"origin":73935,"position":4},"title":"5 Grants for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs this Spring!","author":"Staff Writer","date":"April 8, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Spring into new beginnings with these 5 grants for small businesses and entrepreneurs! The season of renewal is upon us and it's the perfect time for small businesses and entrepreneurs to plant the seeds of success! The sunshine is calling, the flowers are in bloom, and now is the moment\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Business&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Business","link":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"5 Grants for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs this Spring!","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/smallbusiness_img-950x650_T.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/smallbusiness_img-950x650_T.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/smallbusiness_img-950x650_T.webp?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/smallbusiness_img-950x650_T.webp?resize=700%2C400&ssl=1 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":74713,"url":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/6-small-business-grants-entrepreneurs-can-apply-for-this-february\/","url_meta":{"origin":73935,"position":5},"title":"6 Small Business Grants Entrepreneurs Can Apply for This February","author":"Lori","date":"February 13, 2026","format":false,"excerpt":"Small business February grants can be a real lifeline for entrepreneurs, especially startups navigating early-stage challenges. From limited capital to operational growing pains, funding can make the difference between stalling out and scaling up. This February, small business grants may provide entrepreneurs with critical financial support, professional development opportunities, and\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Business&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Business","link":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/business\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Two small business owners smiling and talking in a workshop while working at a table with a laptop and woodworking tools. Text on the image reads \u201cApply For Small Business Grants.\u201d","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/194_img-950x650_13.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/194_img-950x650_13.webp?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/194_img-950x650_13.webp?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/194_img-950x650_13.webp?resize=700%2C400&ssl=1 2x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/73935","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1935"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=73935"}],"version-history":[{"count":83,"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/73935\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":74140,"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/73935\/revisions\/74140"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/74137"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=73935"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=73935"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.grantwatch.com\/grantnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=73935"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}