Florida small business grants and loans for 2025

5 Florida small business grants

Many grants are available to small and medium-sized businesses in Florida. These grants are awarded to fuel growth in certain industries or help businesses recover from economic downturns or natural disasters. This kind of business funding is basically free money, so the application process can be fiercely competitive. Despite this, it's a good idea to find out which grants you’re eligible for before you take out a conventional loan.

Here are several Florida-sponsored small business grants to consider:

1. Florida High Tech Corridor Matching Grants Research Program (MGRP)

The Florida High Tech Corridor Matching Grants Research Program provides research and development funds for technology companies. Grant recipients work with research teams from the University of Central Florida and the University of South Florida, and promising projects can receive up to $150,000 in funding.

2. State Trade Expansion Program (STEP Grant)

If you're a Florida business looking to expand into international markets, the STEP grant helps small businesses get into exporting or grow their global reach. The grant reimburses up to $15,000 per year for costs like marketing plans, export credit insurance, trade shows, and other export-related expenses.

3. Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF)

If you're running a business in a rural part of Florida, the RIF grant could help you with initiatives like site preparation, roadways, and utility improvements. The goal is to promote economic growth and job creation in rural areas of the Sunshine State. Grants may cover up to 75% of the total infrastructure project cost or up to 100% for projects in fiscally constrained counties or rural areas of opportunity.

4. Miami-Dade Mom and Pop Small Business Grant

The Miami-Dade Mom and Pop Small Business Grant is available for small businesses in Miami-Dade County to cover costs like equipment, supplies, advertising, liability insurance, and minor renovations. The amount you can receive depends on your specific needs, so funding varies from business to business.

5. City of Orlando Business Assistance Program (BAP)

The Business Assistance Program (BAP) can help cover some of your development costs if you're a small business in Orlando or planning to relocate there. This is a matching grant, meaning the city will cover 50% of eligible expenses—up to $20,000—to help with costs such as permit fees, sidewalk repairs, waterline construction, and more.

To explore more state-specific grants, visit the USGrants website.

Eligibility requirements for grants in Florida

The eligibility requirements for small business grants in Florida vary, but they generally consider factors such as:

• Business location: Many grants are only available to businesses in specific cities, counties, or rural areas. Some focus on economically disadvantaged regions to help boost local economies.
• Industry type: Certain grants are designed for businesses in tech, manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, or minority-owned businesses. If your business is in a high-priority sector, you may have a better chance of securing funding.
• Business size: Most grants follow Small Business Administration (SBA) size rules, meaning your company must be below a certain revenue or employee limit. Some grants specifically target very small businesses with fewer than 25 employees.
• Purpose of funding: Every grant has a purpose—e.g., job creation, disaster recovery, infrastructure upgrades, market expansion, etc. You’ll need to show how your business plans to use the funding to meet these goals.
• Time in business: Some grants require businesses to be at least a year old, while others are open to startups and brand-new businesses looking to get off the ground.
• Financial need and matching funds: Some grants are based on financial need, while others require you to match a percentage of the funds to qualify. If it’s a matching grant, you’ll need to show that you can cover your portion of the costs.
• Compliance with regulations: Your business must be in good standing with the state, meaning it should have proper licensing, meet tax obligations, and comply with Florida business regulations.

4 Federal small business grants

Along with state programs, the federal government offers grants that can help your small business grow, innovate, and recover from hardships.

Here are several key federal grants that might be a good fit for your business:

1. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs

If your business is working on new technology, scientific research, or innovation, consider SBIR and STTR programs. These grants help small businesses develop and commercialize cutting-edge technology in fields like healthcare, defense, and energy. To qualify, businesses usually need to partner with a government agency like the National Science Foundation (NSF) or the Department of Defense (DoD).

2. USDA Rural Business Development Grants

If you run a business in a rural community, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG) to help you grow and thrive. Your business can use these funds for projects such as training, infrastructure improvements, job creation, and more. To qualify, your business must be in a town with fewer than 50,000 people. 

3. Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Grants

The MBDA, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, provides grants to help minority-owned businesses grow and succeed. These grants fund nonprofits and business development centers that offer valuable resources like business training, funding opportunities, and growth support.

4. Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Grants

During economic downturns and natural disasters, agencies like the SBA and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offer federal grants and low-interest loans to help small businesses keep their doors open and cover essential expenses.

Additional grant resources for Florida business

Florida business owners have funding options beyond state and federal grants. Local governments, private foundations, and corporate programs also offer financial support for small businesses. Some key resources include:

• Local government grants: Many cities and counties in Florida provide grants for business development, infrastructure improvements, and economic revitalization projects. Check with your local economic development office or chamber of commerce to see what’s available in your area.
• Private foundation grants: Nonprofit organizations often fund businesses that align with their mission, such as sustainability, minority entrepreneurship, or community development. Organizations like the Knight Foundation and the Florida Philanthropic Network offer grant opportunities that could benefit your small business.
• Corporate grants: Large companies sometimes run grant programs for small businesses, especially in underserved communities or high-growth industries. Companies like Visa, Wells Fargo, and FedEx periodically offer funding competitions and grants to support entrepreneurs.

How to get a business grant in Florida: Application process

Getting a small business grant in Florida takes time, effort, and attention to detail. Whether you’re applying for state, federal, private, or corporate grants, you’ll need to follow a structured process to improve your chances of getting funded. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you go through the application process:

Applying for Florida-sponsored grants

Follow these steps to apply for state-sponsored grants:

1. Explore Florida grant opportunities

Check the Florida Department of State Grants and your local economic development office for available grants. Each grant has different requirements, so take the time to see which ones your business qualifies for.

2. Register with MFMP

Many state grants require businesses to sign up with MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP), Florida’s online system for managing grants and state-funded programs. If you’re not registered yet, you’ll need to create an account before applying.

3. Complete pre-qualification requirements

Review the eligibility criteria for each grant to ensure your business qualifies before applying. State grants may require:

• Proof of business registration in Florida
• Financial statements and tax records
• Licensing and permits in good standing
• Compliance with state and federal regulations

4. Review the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

Each grant comes with a NOFO, which lays out details about who can apply, what the money can be used for, how to submit your application, deadlines, and required documents. Read this carefully to make sure you submit everything correctly.

5. Prepare and submit your application

Most Florida business grants are submitted online, but some may require mailing in paperwork. Include all required information and supporting documents, and follow formatting guidelines.

6. Attend grant trainings

The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and other local business organizations offer free workshops and training sessions to help you prepare grant applications. Consider attending them to help improve your chances of getting funded.

Applying for federal grants

1. Identify federal funding opportunities

Search for available grants on Grants.gov and specific federal agency websites. Review eligibility criteria, funding priorities, and application deadlines.

2. Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)

Register in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) to obtain a UEI, which is required for federal grants. Maintain an active SAM.gov registration to stay eligible.

3. Review the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA)

Carefully read the FOA to understand grant objectives, requirements, and evaluation criteria. Note key deadlines and required documents.

4. Prepare the application package

Write a detailed project narrative explaining your goals, impact, and execution plan. Develop a comprehensive budget and justification for requested funding. Be sure to also gather supporting documents, such as letters of support, resumes, and compliance certifications.

5. Submit your application

Use the designated platform to submit your application. For federal grants, this is typically Grants.gov. Ensure all components are properly formatted and submitted before the deadline.

6. Follow up and await feedback

Monitor your application status through the submission portal. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or clarifications.

Applying for local, private, or corporate grants

1. Find grant opportunities

Check local government websites, private foundations, and corporate grant programs for available funding. Review eligibility and application requirements.

2. Prepare required documents 

Gather business details, financial statements, and a strong proposal outlining your project, goals, and impact.

3. Submit your application 

Follow the specific submission process for each grant, ensuring all required documents are included.

4. Monitor and follow up 

Track your application status and respond to any follow-up requests for additional information.

Are there repayment requirements for small business grants in Florida?

Most Florida business grants don't have to be repaid, but there are exceptions to every rule. Before you begin the application process, check for any strings attached to the money, such as application or processing fees or strict rules for how the funds must be used.

Florida small business loans

Florida businesses are often able to secure business loans if they’re not eligible for any grants. You could walk into a branch of a large bank and fill out a business loan application, or you could borrow money from a funding source with less rigorous underwriting standards. There are many kinds of business loans available, so it pays to compare options before signing anything.

1. SBA 7(a) loan program

The SBA 7(a) loan program is the nation’s most popular small business loan program. It’s designed to help businesses cover everyday expenses, expand operations, or refinance debt. Since these loans are backed by the SBA, lenders are more willing to approve funding, even for businesses that might not qualify for traditional loans.

2. SBA 504 loan program

The SBA 504 program backs loans of up to $5 million that are taken out by businesses that want to make major capital investments in machinery or infrastructure. This program provides long-term, fixed-rate financing to help businesses expand while keeping costs manageable.

3. Traditional bank loans

All of the large banks offer business loans, but they can sometimes be difficult to deal with. If your business is new or you do not have an established credit profile, a large bank may ask you to provide a cosigner or collateral if you apply for a loan. 

4. Credit union loans

Credit union loans are a little easier to obtain than traditional bank loans. Credit unions were established to help people who have difficulty obtaining credit, so they tend to be a bit more flexible when they receive loan applications from business owners.

5. Commercial real estate loans

Residential mortgages are usually taken out for 15 or 30 years, but commercial real estate loans have to be paid back far more quickly. Commercial real estate lenders base their decisions on the amount of revenue a property will generate, which is why they typically lend to businesses that are constructing office buildings or shopping centers.

6. Equipment financing loans

You may not have to put any money down if you take out an equipment financing loan because the machinery you will purchase with the money will serve as collateral. Most major banks and credit unions offer equipment financing loans.

7. Line of credit loans

Lines of credit provide businesses with the working capital they need to meet their payroll obligations and fund their day-to-day operations. Even Fortune 500 companies with assets worth billions of dollars have lines of credit. When traditional lenders are unwilling to extend credit, a number of alternative financing options are available to business owners in Florida.

8. Florida Microfinance Guarantee Program loans

The Florida Microfinance Guarantee Program provides loans of between $50,000 and $250,000 to help business owners in Florida gain access to the funds they need to grow their companies. The program can guarantee up to 50% of a small business loan.

9. Community Development Financial Institutions loans

The CDFI program works with business owners who serve disadvantaged communities. The program has been running for 50 years, and it has helped hundreds of communities and thousands of small businesses.

10. Invoice factoring loans

Invoice factoring allows entrepreneurs to access money that is tied up in unpaid invoices. These loans are repaid when outstanding invoices are paid. If the outstanding invoice is not paid, the business owner will usually be expected to come up with the cash.

11. Merchant cash advances

This kind of lender advances money based on anticipated credit and debit card sales. If most of your customers pay with plastic, a merchant cash advance could be a convenient source of working capital.

Do you have to pay back loans in Florida as a small business?

Loans have to be repaid, but grants do not. Some business loans, like outstanding invoices and merchant advance loans, are repaid quickly, but most business loans have more conventional terms. Consult a financial advisor or accountant who can help you choose the best loan for your business and manage repayment effectively. You can also use our accounting software to compare loan packages and repayment terms.

Florida small business loan eligibility

The eligibility requirements of traditional and alternative business lenders are very different. Traditional lenders base their decisions on credit reports, down payments, and collateral, but alternative lenders tend to be more interested in things like outstanding invoices and monthly credit card sales. No matter which type of business loan you apply for, make sure to read all the fine print.

What can you use your Florida business loan for?

Some commercial loans are made for very specific purposes, while others provide business owners with working capital that they can spend as they wish. Loans that are used to purchase equipment or real estate usually have more attractive repayment terms because the assets being acquired serve as collateral. The interest rates on lines of credit and alternative loans tend to be higher, but they may still be affordable because they are paid off quickly.

What industries does Florida offer loans for?

Just about any business in Florida can apply for and obtain a loan of some sort. Grants are awarded to serve a greater purpose like redeveloping a disadvantaged area, but business loans are pure financial transactions. If the deal makes sense for the lender, the loan will be approved regardless of the type of business the applicant is engaged in.

How to get a business loan in Florida: Application process

Whether you’re considering a traditional bank loan, an SBA loan, or an alternative lender, follow these steps to improve your chances of approval and secure the best financing for your business:

1. Assess your financing needs 

Determine how much funding you need, what it will be used for, and which loan type best suits your business.

2. Check your credit and financials

Review your business and personal credit scores, gather financial statements, and ensure your revenue supports loan repayment.

3. Prepare a business plan 

Most lenders require a detailed business plan outlining your operations, revenue projections, and repayment strategy.

4. Research lenders 

Compare options from banks, credit unions, online lenders, and state-backed programs to find the best terms and eligibility requirements.

5. Gather required documents

This typically includes tax returns, financial statements, legal business documents, and collateral details if needed.

6. Submit your application

Follow the lender’s specific process, whether online or in person, and ensure all required documents are included.

7. Await approval and funding 

Lenders review your application, conduct underwriting, and may request additional details before issuing funds.

Florida small business funding resources and support

There are several funding resources in Florida that provide loans and grants to businesses that have faced undue hardship or operate in difficult markets, including:

Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program

The Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program provides short-term, interest-free loans to small businesses impacted by natural disasters, economic downturns, or other crises. The goal is to help businesses cover immediate expenses while waiting for insurance payouts or long-term financing. The loans typically must be repaid within 12 months.

FloridaCommerce Office of Small Business Innovation 

The Florida Commerce Office of Small Business Innovation supports entrepreneurs and small business owners by providing resources, funding opportunities, and technical assistance to help businesses innovate and grow.

Community Development Block Grant program

Created in 1974 by the Housing and Community Development Act, the CDBG program is designed to develop underserved communities by providing affordable housing and creating opportunities. The individuals who receive these grants generally operate businesses that benefit low-income families.

Florida Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)

The Florida SBDC provides free business consulting and financial guidance to small business owners. Whether you need help finding grants, applying for loans, or developing a financial plan, SBDC advisors can provide one-on-one support to help your business succeed.

Other ways to fund your small business in Florida

Traditional bank loans and state grants aren’t the only ways to finance your business. If you’re looking for alternative funding options, Florida entrepreneurs have access to a variety of creative ways to raise capital, including:

Alternative loans

Non-traditional financing options such as online lenders, peer-to-peer lending, or merchant cash advances, often with more flexible requirements than bank loans.

Angel investors

Established entrepreneurs (angel investors) who invest their personal money into startups, often at an early stage, in exchange for equity.

Bootstrapping 

Using personal savings and revenues to fund business operations without external financing.

Contests

Competitions where businesses pitch ideas to win funding or resources.

Corporate programs

Initiatives by large companies offering funding, mentorship, or resources to small businesses.

Crowdfunding 

Raising small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically via online platforms.

Friends and family 

Obtaining funds from personal networks to support business ventures.

Incubators 

Organizations that support startups with resources, mentorship, and sometimes funding.

Microloans

Small, short-term loans from nonprofit lenders, government programs, or alternative lenders, often designed for startups and businesses that may not qualify for traditional bank loans.

Product presales

Selling products before they are produced to generate upfront capital.

Purchase order financing

Obtaining funding based on purchase orders to pay suppliers and fulfill customer orders.

Vendor financing

Suppliers provide goods or services with deferred payment terms to support business cash flow.

Venture capitalists 

Professional firms that invest in startups with high growth potential in exchange for equity.

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