Maryland Business Ready Sites Grants

The Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) is excited to announce that we will accept applications for the FY 2026 Robust Retail Citywide Grants. The FY 2026 Robust Retail Citywide grant(s) support existing DC-based retail businesses in maintaining operations and viability. DSLBD intends to award up to $10,000 per business to approximately 50 businesses from the $500,000 in available Fiscal Year 2026 funding. This grant will be operated as a reimbursement grant, awarded via lottery to DC retail businesses that meet all eligibility requirements by the final deadline. Businesses that received a Robust Retail Citywide award in FY2025 are not eligible to apply.

Elevate Vermont gives matching grants to Vermont-based companies that have received a Phase I or II award from the federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants. The maximum grant is $50,000. Companies can use the funds to support market research, develop new sales materials, and offset marketing expenses.

The Athens Downtown Development Authority (ADDA) Janey Mae Cooley Memorial Façade Grant Program is intended to stimulate investment in the revitalization and preservation of building exteriors in Athens’ historic downtown area, the heart of the Athens Historic District and a source of pride for our community. Matching funds are made available for eligible improvements to business facades that are easily visible and in public rights-of-way, such as those that face a public street or a parking area. Improvements must preserve the individual character of each building with its unique features, historic appearance and significance, as well as make a contribution and impact to the appeal of the downtown area.

The Merchants Fund Stabilization Grant provides Philadelphia small businesses with up to $10,000 in funding to help stabilize in the face of adversity, take advantage of an opportunity to grow, or increase profitability. Administered by The Merchants Fund, the program is offered twice a year, with cycles opening in the spring (March 15 – April 15) and fall (September 15 – October 15). The grant prioritizes support for business owners and communities that have experienced historical and systemic disinvestment or inequitable access to capital. To be eligible, businesses must be independently owned and operated, located in Philadelphia, generate annual revenue between $50,000 and $750,000, and demonstrate financial need for the grant. Certain business types are ineligible, including financial and lending businesses, real estate development businesses, child care centers, home health aid companies, insurance companies, and private membership-restricted clubs.

One-time microgrants up to $500 to help women start or grow business