How it works
What happens after you apply.
Here’s each step, when it happens and how we decide.
- 01
You apply online
Answer questions about your business, your plan and the difference it will make, then build a simple budget. Your answers save as you go. Applications close Friday, January 15, 2027 at 11:59 pm Eastern.
- 02
We check the rules
Our team checks every application against the program rules and the requirements of the grant you picked. If yours doesn’t qualify, we’ll email to tell you.
- 03
The panel scores it
Reviewers score each eligible application on their own, using the guide below. They tell us about any conflict of interest and never see the optional ownership answers.
- 04
Finalist interview
The top-scoring applicants get a 30-minute video call with the panel. We also ask them for documents that show the business is registered and in good standing.
- 05
Winners are announced
We announce winners on April 1, 2027. Each winner signs a grant agreement, and we pay the money by direct deposit into their business bank account.
- 06
Two short updates
Winners send us a short update at 6 months and again at 12 months, on how they used the money and what changed.
Scoring guide
How reviewers score applications
Each part gets a score from 1 to 5. We weight them to get a total out of 100, then choose finalists from the top scores in each grant.
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30%
Community impact
Will the grant create jobs, help your neighborhood or support the local economy?
What a strong answer looks likeReal numbers: jobs, customers, the part of town you serve. Show how the grant leads to that change.
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25%
Business viability
Do people want what you sell, and can the business keep going?
What a strong answer looks likeProof people want what you sell, like sales, contracts or a waitlist, and a clear idea of your costs.
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25%
Use of funds
Is the plan clear and realistic, and does the budget match what you asked for?
What a strong answer looks likeA budget where every line connects to a goal, with dates, and quotes from suppliers if you have them.
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20%
Readiness to deliver
Can you and your team carry out the plan?
What a strong answer looks likeExperience that fits the plan, and the time and people to get it done within 12 months.
Key dates
Spring 2027 timeline
-
Oct 1
Applications open
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Jan 15
Applications close
11:59 pm Eastern
Next -
Feb 12
Eligibility screening complete
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Mar 5
Finalists notified
Interviews run through March 19
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Apr 1
Winners announced
Everyone who applied hears back
What you can count on
Our promises to every applicant
No fees
Applying is free, and you never pay to receive a grant.
Clear rules
The scoring guide on this page is the one our reviewers use.
A fair review
Reviewers score on their own and declare any conflicts of interest.
An answer for everyone
Everyone who applies hears back by April 1, 2027.
Applications close January 15, 2027