Walnut Small Business Grant

Managed by the Academic Innovations Team, the objective of the Federal Matching Grant is further federal funds received by small businesses in South Carolina to advance translational research in support of one or more critical milestones towards commercialization. Preference given to SBIR/STTR awardees with initial datasets who identify gaps in commercialization activities that would help develop a compelling proposal for follow on funding. Other Federal matches will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Key milestones include developing the technology past the minimum viable product (MVP) and demonstrating product-market fit, in the DEVELOP stage of startup development. In the ACCELERATE stage of startup development, key milestones include enabling product execution through testing and demonstrations. Federal Matching Grants can match funds up to 50% of a qualifying federal award, not to exceed $50,000.

The Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP) is available to eligible businesses that create qualified new jobs and/or make qualified new investment in Michigan. “Qualified new job” means a new, full-time job performed by an individual who is either: a resident of this state whose Michigan income taxes are withheld by an employer; or an employee leasing company or professional employer organization on behalf of the employer or an individual who is not a resident of Michigan and is employed by a business at a project location that is located in this state, provided that the business certifies in writing at the time of the MSF disbursement that not less than 75 percent of the employees of that business are residents of Michigan. In both cases, the qualified new job must be in excess of the number of jobs maintained by the qualified business prior to the expansion or location as determined by the MSF.

The Rhode Island Growth Catalyst Program is a targeted investment initiative designed to support the expansion of life sciences companies by supporting technology development and accelerating commercialization activities. By providing essential growth capital, this program acknowledges the vital role both innovators and manufacturers play in building a robust life sciences industry. Through strategic funding, the program helps businesses scale operations, drive technological advancements, and strengthen the state’s position as a leader in life sciences innovation and manufacturing.

Fund Her Future, a grant program from Block Advisors by H&R Block, is open to women business owners nationwide. One grand prize winner receives a $50,000 grant, while five additional small businesses get $10,000 each. Winners also receive a year of free small-business services, including bookkeeping, payroll and tax support. To be eligible, you must have an established business that generated a minimum of $20,000 in revenue in 2024.

The Southern Smoke Foundation's Emergency Relief Program provides emergency funding to the owners and employees of restaurants and bars facing unforeseen circumstances that cannot be covered by insurance. To qualify, you must be experiencing an unforeseen crisis and currently be employed within the food and beverage industry, working at least 30 hours per week for a minimum of six months.