You’ve got a full slate from balancing bills, operations, and dreaming about the next step for growth. But when it comes to finding funds, grants can be game-changers: they’re essentially “free” money that you don’t need to pay back. We’ve compiled a list of 15 must-see grants to help you find the right opportunities specifically for New York businesses, from funding storefront renovations to launching your next big idea.
1. New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) Small Business Grants
Not just for artists—NYFA also offers grants for creative small businesses. From design firms to production companies, this grant can support you in the creative industries.
- Who should apply: Creative small businesses, such as design studios, media companies, and more.
- Learn more here: NYFA Small Business Grants
2. New York Foundation Grant
The New York Foundation offers core grants up to $47,500 annually (for up to three years for established groups) to support community-based organizations.
- Who should apply: 501(c)(3) community organizations.
- Learn more here: New York Foundation
3. Citizens Committee for New York City Grants
This grant offers up to $10,000 to small businesses with a community focus—especially those that support economic development, public health, or education.
- Who should apply: Small businesses with community-oriented goals.
- Learn more here: Citizens Committee for NYC
4. New York Pre-Seed Matching Fund
New York’s Pre-Seed and Seed Matching Fund offers $50,000 to $250,000 for high-growth early-stage startups in exchange for matching funds from private co-investors.
- Who should apply: High-growth startups and early-stage businesses.
- Learn more here: Pre-Seed Matching Fund
5. NYSERDA Funding for Clean Energy Interns
NYSERDA provides funding to help energy-efficiency businesses hire paid interns, creating a pipeline of skilled talent in the energy sector.
- Who should apply: HVAC, plumbing, and general contractors in clean energy.
- Learn more here: NYSERDA Internship Funding
6. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) Loan Program
While technically a loan, the SBA’s 7(a) program provides flexible, low-interest funding for businesses seeking capital. Ideal if you’re looking for longer repayment terms.
- Who should apply: Businesses in need of working capital.
- Learn more here: SBA 7(a) Loan Program
7. Comcast RISE Grant
For minority-owned businesses, Comcast RISE offers grants, marketing consultations, and technology upgrades.
- Who should apply: Minority-owned small businesses seeking marketing and tech support.
- Learn more here: Comcast RISE
8. New York StartUP! Business Plan Competition
This competition offers grants of up to $15,000 for New York City-based businesses with well-structured business plans.
- Who should apply: New startups with strong business plans.
- Learn more here: StartUP! Business Plan Competition
9. Global NY Fund Grant Program
Global NY provides grants to help businesses expand into international markets, covering costs like travel, market research, and exporting.
- Who should apply: Businesses looking to enter international markets.
- Learn more here: Global NY Fund
10. LISC NYC Small Business Relief & Recovery Fund
LISC offers around $10,000 to support small businesses serving low-to-moderate-income areas and helps those recovering from the pandemic.
- Who should apply: Small businesses in underserved neighborhoods.
- Learn more here: LISC NYC
11. Women’s Venture Fund Grant
Supporting women entrepreneurs, this fund provides grants, mentorship, and leadership training to women-owned businesses in NYC.
- Who should apply: Women-owned small businesses.
- Learn more here: Women’s Venture Fund
12. Empire State Development Grant Funds
Offering multiple grants, loans, and tax credits, Empire State Development supports growth, job creation, and innovation in New York businesses.
- Who should apply: Businesses with plans for expansion or innovation.
- Learn more here: Empire State Development
13. NYC Employee Retention Grant Program
This program helps cover 40% of payroll costs for up to two months for businesses that retained employees during the pandemic.
- Who should apply: Businesses that kept their employees during the pandemic.
- Learn more here: NYC Employee Retention Grant
14. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grant
NASE’s $4,000 grants are open to businesses nationwide and can be used for marketing, equipment, or other growth initiatives.
- Who should apply: Self-employed individuals and small businesses seeking growth.
- Learn more here: NASE Growth Grants
15. Market New York Tourism Grant
The Market NY grant funds tourism-related small business projects, covering marketing and tourism initiatives.
- Who should apply: Tourism-oriented small businesses and individuals.
- Learn more here: Market New York
Pro Tip: Don’t Sit on Your Hands
Grants require time and effort to apply, but the potential rewards make it worth the hustle. The Bradhurst Merchants Association is here to guide you, connecting you with valuable resources and helping you through the application process. With these grant options, you have a real chance to grow your business without sacrificing equity or taking on new debt.
