Minority- & veteran-owned business grants
Grants and support for Black, Hispanic, BIPOC, veteran and second-chance entrepreneurs: how they work, where to verify them, and our program guides.
Quick answer: Grants for minority-, veteran- and second-chance founders come mostly from foundations, corporations and states; federal agencies mainly offer advising, lending and contracting programs through the MBDA, SBA and VA.
How do minority- & veteran-owned business grants work?
Many grant programs target founders who have historically had less access to capital: Black, Hispanic, Indigenous and other minority entrepreneurs, veterans and service-disabled veterans, and people rebuilding after incarceration. Most are run by foundations, corporations, accelerators and state programs.
Federal agencies mostly support these groups through advising, lending and contracting rather than direct grants — for example the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) business centers, SBA Veterans Business Outreach Centers, and the SBA veteran-owned contracting certification. Those resources can still be valuable for preparing a strong grant application.
Because criteria are specific (ownership percentage, discharge status, location, stage), verify each program on its official page and keep proof of eligibility ready.
What steps should you take?
- Gather proof of eligibilityOwnership documents, DD-214 for veterans, or certifications where required.
- Use free support centersMBDA centers and Veterans Business Outreach Centers offer advising.
- Combine sourcesPair grants with certifications and lending programs for a realistic funding plan.
Which minority- & veteran-owned business grants guides should you read?
All our in-depth guides on this topic (10):
- Easy Grants for Minority Small Businesses in 2026Grant programs open to minority-owned small businesses in 2026, with eligibility, award ranges stated by each funder and official application links. Plus how to apply.
- Black & Brown Founders Empower Growth Fund: Eligibility, $5,000 Grant, Application Process & Funding Guide (2026)Discover 7 proven tips to qualify for the Black & Brown Founders $5,000 Grant 2026. Learn eligibility & apply before deadlines. Start now!
- Black Girl Ventures Grant: Eligibility, Application, Funding, Pitch Competition, and How to ApplyBlack Girl Ventures Grant: Discover eligibility, pitch rules, funding, and how to apply for up to $15K. Check deadlines and apply now!
- SoGal Black Founder Startup Grant: Full 2026 Application GuideSoGal Foundation's grant for Black women and nonbinary founders: eligibility, award amounts, how to apply and what to include. Check the official page for the next round.
- PFund BIPOC Business Grant 2026: Eligibility, Application Process, Funding Amount & Complete GuideDiscover the PFund BIPOC Business Grant 2026 eligibility, $10K funding details, application steps & tips. Apply before the deadline and secure support!
- 15 Percent Pledge Runway to Revenue Accelerator Grant: Eligibility, Funding, Application, and Business Growth GuideUnlock the 15 Percent Pledge Grant Runway to Revenue Grant: $10K funding, expert growth support & more. Check eligibility and apply
- Disabled Veteran Business Start-Up Grants: Funding, Eligibility, and How to Apply in 2025–2026Discover 7 Disabled Veteran Business Start-Up Grants for 2026—funding, eligibility & how to apply. Claim up to $1.8M. Apply now!
- Easy Grants for Veterans in Colorado: Full Financial Assistance Guide for 2026Discover 20+ easy grants for veterans in Colorado 2026. Learn eligibility, housing & emergency aid. Apply now before funds run out—get benefits today!
- Military Entrepreneur Challenge (MEC): Eligibility, Application Process, Funding Opportunities, and Tips to Win in 2026Military Entrepreneur Challenge guide for veteran and military-spouse founders: eligibility, the award, how to apply and tips for a stronger pitch.
- Small Business Grants for Felons: Complete 2026 Guide to Funding, Loans, and Second-Chance EntrepreneurshipGrants, microloans and training programs open to entrepreneurs with a record, how to qualify, and free reentry resources to help you start a business.
Frequently asked questions
Are there grants specifically for veterans starting a business?
Some private and state programs exist; federal support is mostly advising, training and contracting preferences. See our veteran guides for specific programs.
Can people with a criminal record get business grants?
Yes, many programs do not exclude applicants with records, and some target second-chance entrepreneurs. Check each program's rules.
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