No-nonsense paths to grants for Hispanic small business owners

Finding grants for Hispanic business owners can be tricky, but they do exist. 

Some websites may try to grab your attention by appearing to offer Hispanic business grants, but their disclaimers soon make it clear that they’re providing loans, financial counseling, venture capital programs, private equity, contracts, business capital advances or other options that do not include grants. These may be good options, so don’t discount them, but make sure you know what you’re signing up for.  

Some funding sources restrict Hispanic awards to not-for-profit organizations. Others offer grants to local governments that use the money to provide “technical assistance” to Hispanic-owned businesses. 

A true grant does not require repayment like almost all other forms of funding do. The money you get from a grant can help you start up your small business and invest in necessary resources. 

📌 The following seven sites and programs offer access to authentic grants that can provide you with the funds you need to get your business venture off the ground. 

1. Minority Business Development Agency

Through a program that connects owners of small businesses to investors, the US Department of Commerce helps Hispanic business owners access grant programs at the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and the Business Opportunity Center. In one year, the MBDA helped minority-owned businesses secure almost $4 billion in capital and contracts. The grant funding distributions occur every year, and you need to submit your application for consideration in the spring or summer.

📢 Related: Hispanic-owned businesses key to economic recovery

2. FedEx small business grant

The multinational delivery service conducts an annual contest that awards 10 small businesses grants up to a maximum of $50,000 each. While not limited to just Hispanic participants, it welcomes everyone to enter. As a qualification, you must have a FedEx account in good standing as a US-based payer. However, you may not qualify if you currently have certain FedEx discounts. Check the website for updates on the 2026 contest deadline and application process.

3. Grants.gov

Grants.gov is a one-stop shop for federal grant opportunities. To apply for a federal grant, you must obtain a unique nine-digit number for your business from Dun & Bradstreet. This DUNS number registers you as an entity that can conduct business with the US government through its System Award Management program. The grants provide billions of dollars that can make the application process worthwhile.

The grants.gov site offers guidance on 1,000 or more programs from 26 grant-making agencies in the federal government. While the paperwork may tax your patience, you might find an opportunity to fund your business plans through grants that welcome everyone to apply.

📢 Related: 5 Influential Hispanic Americans you should know about

4. Business Consortium Fund

Under the umbrella of the National Minority Supplier Development Council, the Business Consortium Fund offers financial services as a nonprofit business development entity. As an organization with certification from the United States Department of the Treasury, it provides a wide-range of financing options as well as business support for certified minority-owned companies through its network of strategic partners.

5. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE)

This nonprofit trade association offers access to grants for entrepreneurs and owners of small businesses. You can apply for a maximum amount of $4,000 if you hold active membership in the organization. The application will ask you to present documentation that explains how you plan to use the funds and their importance to your business growth.

Since the start of this program, the NASE has awarded close to $1,000,000 to members. You can use the funds for hiring, marketing, expansion, advertising, or other business needs. A resume and a business plan may help support your application.

6. Small Business Technology Transfer and Small Business Innovation Research

As a Hispanic small business owner, you can apply to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) through two programs that provide grants for “early stage” small businesses. 

NIH supports more biomedical research than any other public funder. With an annual investment of $32 billion, it provides grants that have helped people live better, longer, and healthier lives. Look into the Small Business Technology Transfer and Small Business Innovation Research programs, for more details on the application process and how to submit and track your request.

7. USDA Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG)

Hispanic-owned small businesses can apply for a grant from RBDG for up to $500,000 if they serve an eligible rural area and have fewer than 50 workers. The funds must benefit regions that lie outside the “urbanized periphery” of a population center of 50,000 or more. Smaller requests seem to receive higher priority than larger ones.

These grants provide funds for training, land purchase, construction, renovation, feasibility studies, pavement and parking areas, technical reports, distance learning, and capitalization of revolving loans. The state offices of the USDA’s Rural Development program accept applications once a year.

By doing your own additional research on these and other grants, you'll be able to secure the funds you need for your small business.

8. Elevate Together: Grant support for minority business owners

Elevate Together focuses specifically on micro-businesses with a team of five employees or less, offering grant funding and resources tailored to underserved entrepreneurs, including Hispanic business owners.

Grant access and financial support

• Direct grant funding available to qualified underserved small business owners without repayment requirements
• Increased capital access through non-traditional lending sources when grant funding alone isn't enough
• Flexible funding options that complement traditional grant programs

Business growth resources

• Professional networks and platforms that connect grant recipients with corporate buyers and industry leaders
• Diverse supplier pipeline programs that help Hispanic-owned businesses secure contracts with Fortune 500 companies
• In-kind donations including copy and print services, technology products, office furniture, business services, and office supplies that maximize the impact of grant funding

Learn more about Elevate Together's grant opportunities and support services for Hispanic business owners. 

How to apply for funding for minority businesses

📌 The grant application process can seem onerous, but it can be worthwhile if you’re awarded the funds. Here are some tips for applying for Latino business grants.

1. Make sure you meet the criteria. There’s no reason to apply for a grant you’re not eligible to win.
2. Have your records in order. Make sure your financial records are available – balance sheet, cash flow, income statement, payroll records, etc.
3. Update your business plan. You may not need to submit it with your application, but having it handy may help you answer some of the questions.
4. Answer all the questions and provide all the requested information. An incomplete application will be eliminated early.
5. Respond as soon as possible. Replying after the deadline means your application won’t be considered.

Common mistakes that cost Hispanic entrepreneurs grant funding

• Avoiding these errors can significantly improve your chances of securing grant money:
• Missing certification deadlines. Many Hispanic business grants require minority business certification through organizations like the National Minority Supplier Development Council. Start this process early—certification can take 60-90 days.
• Applying for the wrong grant type. If your business operates in tech, don't waste time on agriculture-focused grants. Match your industry, size, and location to program requirements.
• Weak impact statements. Grant reviewers want to know how funding will create jobs, serve underserved communities, or drive innovation. Generic answers like "business growth" won't cut it.
• Incomplete financial documentation. Missing tax returns, unclear cash flow statements, or outdated business plans trigger immediate rejections. Have a CPA review your financials before submission.
• Ignoring smaller grant opportunities. While a $500,000 USDA grant sounds appealing, $4,000 from NASE with a simpler application might fund your immediate needs. Don't overlook accessible funding while chasing larger amounts. 

Protect your business

💡✍️ Whether you’re applying for a grant to start or grow a business, or you already have your financing in place, it’s important to protect the business you’ve worked so hard to build. Get a fast, free quote and your business could be covered today.

Frequently asked questions

Are there grants for Hispanic business owners? 

Yes, there are several grants for Hispanic business owners designed to support startups and established companies alike. These Hispanic business grants offer vital funding to help entrepreneurs grow, innovate, and strengthen their communities. Many of these programs also include Latino business grants focused on equity and inclusion.

How to apply for a minority business grant? 

Start by identifying grant programs that match your business’s mission or industry. Prepare a strong business plan, financial documentation, and impact statement. The Small Business Resource Center offers a curated list of options specifically for business grants for Latinos and other underrepresented groups. These are excellent starting points for seeking funding for minority business initiatives.

Are grants free money?

Yes, most grants are considered free money, meaning you don’t have to repay them. However, they often require reporting or compliance with spending guidelines. If you’re wondering where to begin, this list of grant opportunities your small business can qualify for is a great resource—especially for new Hispanic business owners entering the grant space.

Are there free grants for small business?

Absolutely. Many private and public organizations offer free grants that don't require repayment. Whether you’re a solopreneur or a growing firm, these programs can provide the boost you need without taking on debt. For entrepreneurs from the Hispanic community, understanding the types of grants for Hispanic business owners available is key to finding the right fit. Also, read how Hispanic-owned businesses are supercharging the economy to see the bigger picture of how access to capital drives long-term success. 

How long does it take to receive grant money after approval?

Grant disbursement timelines vary by program. Federal grants through Grants.gov typically take 30-90 days after approval. Private grants like FedEx Small Business Grant distribute funds within 2-4 weeks. USDA Rural Business Development Grants may take 60-120 days due to compliance reviews. Factor these timelines into your business cash flow planning. Grants aren't emergency funding.

Can I apply for multiple Hispanic business grants at the same time?

Yes, you can and should apply for multiple grants simultaneously. There's no restriction on applying to different grant programs, and having multiple applications increases your funding chances. However, read each program's terms carefully. Some grants prohibit using funds for the same purpose as another grant (no "double-dipping"). Keep detailed records of what you've requested from each program and how you plan to use the funds.