Does your business need funding? Hustler’s Library has found the best small business grant in every state across the US.

If you are serious about building your business without giving up equity, state-level grants are one of the most powerful cheat codes you can use.

This guide does one thing: it highlights one standout grant or grant-style program in all 50 states plus Puerto Rico, with a focus on non-dilutive money that helps small businesses grow, hire, and innovate.

You can use this as your master map and then go deeper on your own state, or treat it as a prospecting tool if you are open to relocating or expanding.

A Quick Note on the Types of Grants in This Guide

Most of the grants in every state fall into one of these buckets:

• Innovation and SBIR/STTR matching grants – These match federal research awards and help startups push a technology or product to market. A recent federal directory confirms that many states now run SBIR/STTR matching programs with awards that can reach six figures.
• Business plan competitions and innovation challenges – These operate like contests. If you win, you get a sizable grant and often mentorship, incubator access, or investor introductions.
• Export, expansion, or improvement grants – These reimburse you for specific activities such as exporting, facility upgrades, or tech adoption.
• Credit-enhancement and capital programs – Some states and territories use federal funds (such as SSBCI) to reduce lender risk, which can make it easier to secure loans. Puerto Rico, for example, has been approved for up to $109 million in SSBCI funding for small business financing programs.

You will see a lot of innovation and SBIR/STTR language below, because those are the most consistently funded state programs. For non-tech founders, pay attention to improvement, recovery, and export programs in your state as well.

Regional Index

We have divided our list of grants in every state into four distinct regions; Northeast, South, Midwest and West. If you don’t want to see a grant in every state, you can jump directly to your region:

• Northeast
• South
• Midwest
• West

Northeast Region

The Northeast offers some of the strongest non-dilutive funding opportunities in the country, giving founders a true competitive advantage without sacrificing equity. This region’s innovation ecosystems, research universities, and commercialization pathways make it ideal for startups validating prototypes or expanding their serviceable obtainable market. If you’re looking for a grant in every state, the Northeast provides a diverse mix of innovation grants, SBIR matches, and industry-specific support that help founders move from idea to execution.

Connecticut — CTNext Entrepreneur Innovation Awards

The CTNext Entrepreneur Innovation Awards (EIA) remain Connecticut’s strongest, most consistent source of non-dilutive capital for early-stage companies. The program issues multiple funding rounds per year where startups compete for grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $40,000+, depending on project scope and available budget. Funds can be used for prototype development, testing, early manufacturing, customer research, software builds, and other pre-revenue validation steps that are notoriously hard to finance.

A major benefit of CTNext is that it’s not restricted to deep-tech companies. While technology-forward businesses do very well, the program also supports consumer packaged goods, digital platforms, food innovation, sustainability concepts, and engineering-based services. The selection committees emphasize real traction, strong founders, and a logical path to revenue — not just a theoretical idea.

Strategically, this grant acts as a signal booster. Winning EIA automatically puts you on the radar of local investors, innovation hubs, and corporate partners in the state. CTNext hosts public pitch events, which means free exposure and warm intros without the awkwardness of cold outreach. For early-stage entrepreneurs in Connecticut, this is the single most important non-dilutive funding gateway.

Best for: Early-stage founders, tech-enabled product builders, innovation-driven consumer businesses
Use of funds: Prototype development, R&D, testing, customer discovery, early manufacturing

Delaware — EDGE Grants (Encouraging Development, Growth & Expansion)

Delaware’s EDGE Grant program is one of the most founder-friendly capital programs in the Northeast, offering up to $100,000 for STEM businesses and up to $50,000 for Entrepreneur (non-STEM) applicants, with winners selected in competitive cycles. The state explicitly focuses on businesses with growth potential, job creation capacity, and measurable economic impact within Delaware.

What makes EDGE valuable is the match funding requirement. Companies must demonstrate that they can match the state’s contribution dollar-for-dollar, either through revenue, investment, or in-kind resources. This creates a filtering effect: only serious founders apply, which increases the credibility of winning businesses in the eyes of investors and lenders. The state also provides mentoring, milestone tracking, and access to agency resources during and after grant deployment.

The grant is unusually flexible compared to many state programs. Winners can use funds for equipment, expansion, lab space, supply chain improvements, manufacturing tools, or even marketing campaigns — as long as the spending accelerates growth. For brick-and-mortar or product-based founders in Delaware, the EDGE program is arguably the most valuable opportunity available.

Best for: STEM and non-STEM small businesses with growth potential
Use of funds: Equipment, hiring, expansion, manufacturing, commercialization

Maine — Maine Technology Institute (MTI) Seed Grants

The Maine Technology Institute (MTI) provides highly targeted seed grants that typically range from $5,000 to $25,000, with larger awards available for follow-on phases. MTI focuses on innovation-driven sectors such as biotech, forestry, aquaculture, advanced materials, and precision manufacturing — all major economic pillars in Maine. Funds may be used for R&D, prototype development, testing, technology transfer, regulatory prep, or commercialization milestones.

What sets MTI apart is that it behaves like a continuity partner, not a one-off funder. Many companies receive MTI support at multiple stages through seed grants, development awards, and matched investments. For founders, this means you can build a multi-year strategic plan with MTI and escalate capital with each milestone you hit, rather than starting from scratch each time.

MTI grants are also attractive because they frequently unlock additional federal and private funding. Venture firms and strategic partners in the region view MTI’s underwriting as a sign that a company is worth deeper diligence. If you’re building something with a technical or regulated component, MTI should be the first place you look.

Best for: Tech-enabled, R&D-heavy companies; regulated product builders
Use of funds: R&D, prototyping, testing, commercialization

Maryland — TEDCO Seed Funding & Commercialization Grants

Maryland’s TEDCO ecosystem is one of the strongest state-backed innovation engines in the country. Its various grant programs — including SBIR/STTR Proposal Support, Matching Grants, and Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII) — provide non-dilutive funding ranging from $10,000 to more than $250,000, depending on project phase and eligibility. TEDCO specializes in helping companies bridge the chasm between federal R&D funding and commercial deployment.

The Maryland market is unique because of its dense cluster of federal labs, cybersecurity institutions, health systems, and defense contractors. This means TEDCO-funded companies gain access not only to capital but also to technical experts, strategic partners, and government contracting pathways that founders in other states simply don’t have.

For founders in cyber, biotech, bioinformatics, medical devices, AI, or defense-adjacent industries, TEDCO is the gold standard of early-state support. It’s not uncommon for companies to layer TEDCO grants with SBIR funding and institutional partnerships, creating multi-year runway without losing equity.

Best for: Research-driven startups; cybersecurity, biotech, health tech
Use of funds: Commercialization, regulatory steps, pilots, technical development

Massachusetts — MassVentures START Grants

The START Program from MassVentures is one of the most comprehensive SBIR Phase II commercialization programs in the country. Companies that have already earned a Phase II SBIR/STTR award can receive up to $100,000 in Stage I, $200,000 in Stage II, and $500,000 in Stage III over multiple years — making this one of the highest cumulative non-dilutive packages available at the state level.

Massachusetts is already a global powerhouse for biotech, robotics, aerospace, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing. START grants help founders avoid raising investor capital too early and instead use non-dilutive funds to hire engineers, expand production capacity, complete regulatory steps, or prepare for private sector contracts.

START is competitive — but companies that receive funding gain unmatched visibility. Many past START recipients have scaled into large acquisitions or substantial venture-backed companies. If you’re working in advanced R&D in Massachusetts, this is the program that can change your company’s trajectory.

Best for: SBIR Phase II companies; deep-tech founders; advanced R&D
Use of funds: Commercialization, scaling, regulatory processes, hiring

New Hampshire — C-DEE Small Business Grant (Community-Driven Economic Empowerment Grant)

New Hampshire’s strongest active small business grant is the Community-Driven Economic Empowerment (C-DEE) Grant, offered through the New Hampshire Community Loan Fund. This program provides up to $5,000 in non-dilutive funding to New Hampshire small businesses seeking to strengthen operations, upgrade technology, or expand their market reach. Unlike many innovation-only or SBIR-exclusive programs, C-DEE is intentionally broad and designed to support everyday entrepreneurs—retailers, service providers, home-based businesses, food businesses, trades, and digital-first founders.

Grant funds may be used for essential business growth needs such as new computer hardware, software upgrades, websites, e-commerce setup, digital marketing, and other operational improvements. This is especially powerful in New Hampshire, where many small businesses operate with lean resources and lack the capital for technical upgrades that directly impact revenue, customer acquisition, and competitiveness.

What makes C-DEE particularly valuable is its accessibility. The program does not require research partnerships, R&D milestones, or match funding. Instead, it focuses on businesses that demonstrate clear community impact, financial need, and the ability to apply the grant toward measurable business improvements. For early-stage or under-resourced New Hampshire entrepreneurs, C-DEE is the state’s most actionable and immediately useful grant.

Best for: Retail, service businesses, home-based businesses, digital-first founders, and small local entrepreneurs
Use of funds: Technology upgrades, software, hardware, marketing, operational improvements

New Jersey — NJEDA Small Business Improvement Grant

The NJEDA Small Business Improvement Grant reimburses up to 50% of eligible project costs, including building improvements, renovations, façade updates, HVAC systems, and equipment purchases. The reimbursement cap typically sits around $50,000, making it uniquely friendly to brick-and-mortar businesses in retail, food, services, and light manufacturing.

This is a rare grant that isn’t aimed at research-heavy companies — it’s designed for real, everyday SMBs that need physical upgrades to operate or expand. Businesses must show proof of payment and compliance with local regulations, and funds are reimbursed after completion.

For tech founders, NJEDA also offers innovation-focused grants and matching programs. But for traditional small business owners, the Improvement Grant is New Jersey’s single most accessible and immediately impactful non-dilutive program.

Best for: Brick-and-mortar businesses; retail; restaurants; service providers
Use of funds: Renovations, buildouts, equipment, energy efficiency upgrades

New York — Empire State Development Grants via CFA

New York’s Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) is the statewide portal that controls access to dozens of grant programs. Awards vary widely, ranging from $5,000 microgrants to six- and seven-figure commercial development awards, depending on the industry, location, and economic impact.

ESD funding is tied to Regional Economic Development Councils (REDC), meaning each region has different priorities — tech, tourism, downtown revitalization, manufacturing, agriculture, clean energy, etc. If your business aligns with your region’s strategic plan, your odds of securing funding increase dramatically.

Because CFA consolidates multiple programs, savvy founders can apply for several grants at once or stack awards over time. This makes New York one of the most flexible and high-upside states for small business funding, provided you understand how REDC scoring works.

Best for: Startups, manufacturers, tourism operators, community businesses
Use of funds: Hiring, buildouts, machinery, expansion, innovation, regional priorities

Pennsylvania — Ben Franklin Technology Partners

Ben Franklin Technology Partners (BFTP) provides early-stage funding, grants, and advisory support to tech-based startups across Pennsylvania. Awards typically range from $25,000 to $100,000+, depending on region and program. Funding supports prototype development, pilot testing, early customer acquisition, and commercialization milestones.

The real power of Ben Franklin is the network — advisory boards, commercialization coaches, corporate partners, and follow-on capital providers. Many Pennsylvania tech companies consider BFTP their first serious institutional funding relationship.

Because Ben Franklin is regionally structured (Northeast, Southeast, Central, and Pittsburgh), founders receive highly localized guidance aligned with regional industry strengths. For tech or advanced manufacturing startups in PA, this is the top-tier state-backed program.

Best for: Tech startups; advanced manufacturing; engineering-driven companies
Use of funds: Prototyping, early hires, pilots, commercialization

Rhode Island — Innovation Voucher Program

The Rhode Island Innovation Voucher program offers up to $50,000 for small businesses to collaborate with universities, R&D centers, or specialized service providers. This funding covers testing, validation, prototyping, industrial design, or technical problem-solving.

This is especially valuable for manufacturing-heavy industries in Rhode Island, such as marine tech, food production, composites, and advanced materials. Instead of hiring a consultant or purchasing expensive equipment, businesses use grant dollars to “rent expertise” through approved institutions.

Because vouchers are project-based and focused on outcomes, they are ideal for founders who already know what they need to build but lack the technical resources. The program has a high success rate for companies that present clear goals and measurable deliverables.

Best for: Manufacturing, marine, composites, industrial design
Use of funds: Testing, prototyping, materials research, industrial refinement

Vermont — Technology & SBIR Commercialization Grants

Vermont’s top programs focus on helping small businesses prepare SBIR/STTR proposals, match awarded funds, and move research toward commercialization. Awards typically range from $5,000 to $50,000, with supplemental funding available through partner organizations.

Because Vermont’s ecosystem is smaller, grant recipients often receive outsized support — personal attention, mentorship, and community partnerships. This gives local founders breathing room to develop early prototypes or secure early customers before raising money.

The state strongly favors sustainability, agriculture tech, outdoor industry innovation, clean energy, and advanced materials. If your business aligns with these sectors, these grants offer a highly efficient path to early progress.

Best for: SBIR-focused startups; sustainable tech; rural innovation
Use of funds: Proposal support, R&D, prototyping, commercialization

South Region — Best Small Business Grant Programs by State

The South is one of the most dynamic regions for founders seeking non-dilutive capital, thanks to SBIR matching programs, innovation challenges, and commercialization-focused grants. With lower operating costs and strong industry clusters, small businesses can stretch funding further and accelerate growth without giving up control. Entrepreneurs searching for a grant in every state will find that the South provides uniquely high leverage for early-stage companies in tech, manufacturing, energy, and life sciences.

Alabama — Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program

The Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program is one of the most generous SBIR/STTR matching programs in the country. Alabama companies that receive federal SBIR or STTR awards can apply for up to 50% of their federal award amount, currently capped at $100,000 for Phase I and $250,000 for Phase II per project. This is non-dilutive money on top of what you already get from the federal government, specifically to help you push R&D toward commercialization.

Funds can be used for technical development, commercialization planning, prototyping, early hires, regulatory work, and other expenses tied to your SBIR/STTR project. The program is intentionally flexible as long as you can tie spending back to the research and commercialization objectives laid out in your federal award.

Strategically, this makes Alabama extremely attractive for deep-tech founders, especially in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, biotech, and defense-adjacent industries. Stacking SBIR + Innovate Alabama means your research dollars go significantly further without giving up equity. If you already have or are targeting SBIR funding, headquartering (or relocating) in Alabama is a very real play.

Best for: SBIR/STTR awardees; deep-tech & R&D-heavy startups
Use of funds: R&D, prototyping, commercialization, early hires, regulatory work

Arkansas — Arkansas SBIR Matching Grant Program

The Arkansas SBIR Matching Grant Program, administered by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, provides matching funds to Arkansas small businesses that win federal SBIR/STTR awards. Recent program rounds have offered up to $50,000 for Phase I and $100,000 for Phase II awards, though caps and exact amounts can vary by cycle.

Matching funds can cover personnel, specialized equipment, testing, IP protection, and early commercialization tasks tied to the federal project. Because Arkansas has a lower cost of doing business, a six-figure match layered on top of SBIR can fund a serious amount of work—enough to validate a product, secure pilots, or position the company for private capital.

For Arkansas founders in sectors like manufacturing, agriculture technology, software, and advanced materials, this is the state’s flagship non-dilutive program. If you are even thinking about submitting an SBIR/STTR proposal, your grant strategy should include the Arkansas match from day one.

Best for: Early-stage companies with or pursuing SBIR/STTR
Use of funds: R&D, equipment, staff, commercialization prep

Florida — Florida High Tech Corridor SBIR/STTR & Matching Programs

In Florida, one of the most powerful grant-style opportunities for small tech firms is the support offered through the Florida High Tech Corridor in partnership with the University of Central Florida, University of South Florida, and University of Florida. Historically, the Corridor has provided matching funds and cost-sharing for industry–university research projects, and has supported SBIR/STTR-focused companies through programs like the Matching Grants Research Program (MGRP).

The idea is simple: if your Florida company collaborates with a Corridor university on R&D that serves both your commercial goal and the university’s research mission, the Corridor can help fund that work with non-dilutive dollars. This lowers the cost of advanced research, testing, and prototyping—especially in sectors like aerospace, optics, semiconductors, energy, and health technologies.

For founders, the real leverage is in stacking resources: university labs, faculty expertise, SBIR/STTR awards, and Corridor support. If you’re building a high-tech product in central or west-central Florida, this ecosystem can shave months or years off your development timeline.

Best for: Tech, aerospace, photonics, health tech, advanced manufacturing
Use of funds: Joint R&D with universities, prototyping, testing, early commercialization

Georgia — Centers of Innovation & Innovation Grants

Georgia doesn’t have a single monolithic grant, but the Georgia Centers of Innovation (under the Department of Economic Development) act as a hub for multiple innovation-oriented funding opportunities. Centers serve core sectors—like logistics, manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and IT—and periodically connect companies to pilot funding, R&D grants, and federal/state matching opportunities.

Rather than one standardized “small business grant,” Georgia uses its Centers to plug high-potential companies into tailored funding—innovation vouchers, industry-led pilots, export support, or co-funded research projects. If your product fits neatly into one of the state’s strategic sectors, these connections can result in both non-dilutive dollars and commercial contracts.

Strategically, that means your play in Georgia is less “apply for X grant on Y deadline” and more “get on the radar of the right Center and let them help you navigate funding.” For founders willing to build relationships and align with Georgia’s sector priorities, the upside can be very high.

Best for: Sector-aligned startups (logistics, aerospace, manufacturing, energy, IT)
Use of funds: Pilots, proof-of-concept, R&D collaborations, export expansion

Kentucky — Kentucky SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program

The Kentucky SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program is regularly pointed to as one of the most aggressive state matching models in the U.S. The program historically has provided dollar-for-dollar matches for Phase I federal awards and substantial follow-on support for Phase II, with per-company caps that can reach into the hundreds of thousands over time. Exact amounts vary by biennium and budget cycle, but the state publishes clear guidelines for each round.

Kentucky’s goal is to convert federal research wins into permanent, in-state companies and high-wage jobs. Matching funds can be used for R&D, hiring, IP protection, commercialization planning, and market entry. In practice, companies often combine Kentucky match dollars with local angel capital and regional accelerators to build full-blown growth plans without early heavy dilution.

If you’re a deep-tech founder and flexible on geography, Kentucky is absolutely a state to put on the whiteboard. The combination of lower burn rate and strong state matching can put you years ahead of peers in more expensive ecosystems.

Best for: SBIR/STTR-focused startups in life sciences, engineering, software, advanced manufacturing
Use of funds: R&D, hiring, commercialization, IP, scaling

Louisiana — Louisiana Innovation & SBIR Matching Programs

Louisiana supports innovation-driven small businesses through a mix of programs, including SBIR/STTR matching funds and innovation-focused initiatives coordinated by Louisiana Economic Development (LED). The state’s SBIR programs typically provide supplemental grants to Louisiana companies that win federal SBIR/STTR awards, with award sizes and caps varying by cycle.

The focus is on turning research into real jobs in sectors like energy, coastal resilience, advanced manufacturing, and digital media. Matching funds and related innovation grants can cover personnel, lab work, commercialization planning, and pilot projects. Companies also gain access to LED’s suite of tax credits and workforce incentives, which can stack nicely with grant support.

For founders, Louisiana is particularly appealing if your technology aligns with the state’s natural strengths—offshore energy, water/coastal technologies, petrochemicals, or content production. The combination of incentives, grants, and local industry anchors can help a small team punch above its weight.

Best for: Energy, coastal/water tech, advanced manufacturing, software & digital media
Use of funds: R&D, commercialization, pilots, key hires
Suggested internal links: “Energy & Climate Tech Playbook,” “How to Use State Incentives”

Mississippi — Mississippi SBIR/STTR Matching Grants

Mississippi backs small R&D-focused firms via SBIR/STTR matching grants administered through the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) and related innovation partners. While exact match amounts and caps vary by funding round, the general model is consistent with other southern states: state funds are added on top of federal awards to help companies accelerate development and commercialization.

Given Mississippi’s industrial base—shipbuilding, aerospace, automotive, agriculture, and manufacturing—many winning companies operate at the intersection of heavy industry and technology. Matching funds can be applied to technical hires, testing, regulatory steps, or early pilot deployments with regional customers.

In a lean ecosystem, each SBIR + state match combination can meaningfully change a company’s trajectory. If you’re a Mississippi founder working on something technical, your first move should be to understand which MDA programs currently support SBIR and how to line up your proposal timeline accordingly.

Best for: R&D-heavy SMEs in aerospace, manufacturing, agtech, and defense
Use of funds: R&D, testing, commercialization, technical staffing

North Carolina — One North Carolina Small Business Program

North Carolina’s One North Carolina Small Business Program is a model many other states have tried to copy. It does two main things: (1) provides incentive grants to help companies prepare SBIR/STTR proposals, and (2) offers matching grants for businesses that win SBIR/STTR Phase I awards. Depending on the funding year, matches can reach up to $100,000–$200,000 per award, subject to caps and available budget.

This structure gives North Carolina founders a one-two punch. First, you can get small-dollar support to prepare competitive SBIR proposals (covering things like grant-writing help, preliminary data, and consulting). Then, if you win, the match dramatically increases your non-dilutive runway for commercialization work.

Because North Carolina has strong clusters in biotech, pharma, cleantech, and IT (especially around the Research Triangle), companies funded through One NC often advance quickly into serious commercial and investor conversations. For a research-driven founder, this is arguably one of the best state-level programs in the South.

Best for: SBIR-focused startups in biotech, pharma, cleantech, and software
Use of funds: Proposal prep, R&D, commercialization, early hires

Oklahoma — Oklahoma Applied Research Support (OARS) Program

The Oklahoma Applied Research Support (OARS) program, run by the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST), provides grants to companies conducting applied research with clear commercial potential. Awards can reach into the hundreds of thousands of dollars over a multi-year project, depending on scope and matching commitments.

OARS funds R&D that leads directly to new products, improved processes, or technologies that benefit Oklahoma’s economy—particularly in aerospace, energy, agriculture, manufacturing, and life sciences. Projects often require a match (cash or in-kind), which helps ensure applicants are serious and have skin in the game.

For founders, OARS is attractive because it’s explicitly commercialization-focused. You’re not just doing research for research’s sake; you’re building toward something you can sell. Winning an OARS award signals to investors, customers, and partners that your tech has been vetted at both technical and economic levels.

Best for: Applied research companies in aerospace, energy, ag, manufacturing, life sciences
Use of funds: Applied R&D, prototyping, testing, commercialization milestones

South Carolina — SCRA SC Launch & SBIR/STTR Matching Grants

In South Carolina, the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) runs the SC Launch program as well as SBIR/STTR matching grants for qualified companies. Participating startups can receive grants and pre-seed funding, often in the $25,000 to $50,000+ range, along with support services and access to investors. The SBIR/STTR match can add additional non-dilutive capital on top of federal awards.

Beyond the money, SCRA functions as a curated ecosystem: portfolio companies get mentorship, networking, and introductions to potential corporate and investment partners. Much like Ben Franklin in Pennsylvania or TEDCO in Maryland, SCRA’s backing is a stamp of legitimacy in the regional market.

If you’re building an innovation-driven startup in South Carolina—especially in manufacturing, health sciences, IT, or energy—SC Launch and the SBIR match represent the highest-leverage funding path available in the state.

Best for: Innovation-driven startups in manufacturing, health, IT, energy
Use of funds: Early development, commercialization, scaling, SBIR match

Tennessee — LaunchTN SBIR/STTR Matching Grants

Launch Tennessee (LaunchTN) runs a prominent SBIR/STTR Matching Fund that supplements federal awards to Tennessee-based companies. Recent program guidelines have offered matches of up to $100,000 for Phase I and up to $300,000 for Phase II, subject to yearly caps and program rules—placing Tennessee near the top of the list for total available non-dilutive dollars per project.

LaunchTN works through a network of regional entrepreneur centers and sector-specific partners. This means grant recipients don’t just get cash—they also get plugged into a statewide support system that includes coaching, investor introductions, and specialized commercialization assistance.

For founders in healthcare, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, mobility, and energy (all Tennessee strengths), LaunchTN’s match program can dramatically extend runway and make the state extremely competitive with larger coastal ecosystems.

Best for: SBIR-focused companies in health, energy, advanced manufacturing, mobility
Use of funds: R&D, commercialization, hiring, pilots

Texas — Product Development and Small Business Incubator (PDSBI) & SBIR Support

Texas supports small businesses through several innovation-oriented capital programs, with the Product Development and Small Business Incubator (PDSBI) Fund and SBIR/STTR support standing out. PDSBI offers flexible, state-backed financing for Texas small businesses developing, producing, or commercializing new products and technologies. While technically structured as loans rather than pure grants, terms are often more favorable than market, making the capital behave very “grant-like” in practice.

Many Texas companies also tap SBIR/STTR support, commercialization assistance, and regional innovation grants administered via the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office and partner organizations. The result is a toolkit that founders can piece together: PDSBI for product development, SBIR for research, and local incentives for job creation and facilities.

Because Texas is enormous and highly regional, the smart play is to treat the state like multiple markets—Austin, Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, etc.—and layer statewide programs on top. For hardware, energy, medical devices, and industrial technologies, Texas may not give you classic grants, but it will absolutely help you finance growth on friendlier terms.

Best for: Product-heavy startups in hardware, energy, biotech, industrial tech
Use of funds: Product development, equipment, commercialization, matching capital

Virginia — Commonwealth Commercialization Fund (CCF) & SBIR Match

Virginia’s Commonwealth Commercialization Fund (CCF) provides competitive grants to help companies and university researchers commercialize high-potential technologies. Awards typically range from the tens of thousands up to low six figures, depending on maturity and impact. Parallel SBIR/STTR matching programs add further non-dilutive capital on top of federal awards.

Virginia is strategically positioned around federal agencies, defense contractors, cybersecurity hubs, and health systems. CCF funding helps founders move from prototype to pilot deployments, regulatory work, and go-to-market execution in these highly regulated, high-value sectors.

A CCF grant is also a powerful credibility marker when approaching large enterprise or public-sector customers. If you’re building something in cyber, defense tech, health tech, or govtech, CCF + SBIR is one of the cleanest ways to build serious momentum without dilution.

Best for: Cybersecurity, defense, health tech, govtech, advanced analytics
Use of funds: Commercialization, pilots, regulatory work, market entry

West Virginia — West Virginia SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program

West Virginia’s SBIR/STTR State Matching Grant Program provides additional funding to in-state businesses that win federal SBIR or STTR awards. Recent program guidelines have offered matches of up to $100,000 for Phase I and up to $200,000 for Phase II, with caps per company and per year.

In a state with a relatively low cost of living and operating, these matching funds can stretch very far—covering salaries, prototyping, testing, and even early go-to-market work. The state is particularly interested in technologies that strengthen sectors like energy, advanced manufacturing, health, and environmental remediation.

For founders, the key advantage is leverage: a federal grant that might keep a team alive for a year elsewhere could fund 18–24 months of progress in West Virginia when combined with the state match. This makes it a compelling base for capital-efficient, research-driven companies.

Best for: SBIR-driven startups in energy, health, manufacturing, environmental tech
Use of funds: R&D, commercialization, hires, pilots

Midwest Region — Best Small Business Grant Programs by State

The Midwest is a powerhouse for founders who want structured, strategic funding to validate their business model and grow sustainably. Many programs here are built to help businesses prove market demand, refine prototypes, and access capital without relying on venture dilution. If your goal is accessing a grant in every state, the Midwest delivers a balanced mix of R&D support, commercialization funding, and industry-backed innovation programs.

Illinois — Advantage Illinois (AI) + SSBCI Capital Support

Illinois’ flagship support mechanism for small businesses is the Advantage Illinois program, which leverages federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funds. While not a pure “grant” in the classic sense, portions of the program operate like grant-like capital enhancements — particularly the Loan Participation Program (LPP) and Collateral Support Program (CSP). These mechanisms help de-risk loans for small businesses, lowering interest rates and enabling financing that would otherwise be denied.

This is especially powerful in Illinois because many small businesses struggle with traditional underwriting due to seasonal cash flow or limited assets. With SSBCI enhancements, founders gain access to growth capital they couldn’t secure independently — and because the support goes to the lender, the business receives financing without giving up equity or paying grant-style fees.

Industries that tend to benefit most include manufacturing, logistics, food production, and construction — sectors central to Illinois’ economy. While not a direct check, this is the state’s strongest mechanism for enabling capital access without dilution.

Best for: Manufacturers, logistics companies, construction trades, local service businesses
Use of funds: Expansion, equipment, inventory, working capital

Indiana — Export Indiana STEP Grants

Indiana’s most accessible and impactful grant is the Export Indiana (STEP) Grant, funded through the SBA’s State Trade Expansion Program. These grants reimburse small businesses for international growth activities such as trade missions, export training, translation services, overseas marketing, and trade show participation.

Award sizes vary, but typical reimbursement caps fall in the $5,000–$15,000 range depending on activity. The key advantage is that funding covers activities founders usually avoid due to cost — testing international demand, building export channels, and attending overseas trade events.

This program is particularly important in Indiana because the state has a strong manufacturing and agricultural export economy. Local companies can use STEP funds to evaluate global markets with significantly reduced financial risk.

Best for: Manufacturers, agtech companies, product brands, aerospace suppliers
Use of funds: Export research, trade missions, translation, compliance, trade show fees

Iowa — Proof of Commercial Relevance (POCR) Grants

Iowa’s Proof of Commercial Relevance (POCR) grant helps startups validate product–market fit with real customers. Awards typically range from $25,000 to $50,000 and target early-stage companies in strategic sectors such as biosciences, advanced manufacturing, and agricultural innovation.

POCR funds can be used for prototype development, technical validation, early testing, customer interviews, pilot projects, or small-scale manufacturing. The state’s goal is to help founders confirm real demand before committing to large-scale development or funding rounds.

What makes POCR especially effective is its emphasis on commercial feasibility. Unlike purely academic grants, Iowa requires applicants to engage with potential customers and demonstrate market interest. This keeps founders focused on real business traction rather than theoretical R&D.

Best for: Startups validating early demand; hardware/ag/manufacturing-focused founders
Use of funds: Prototyping, beta testing, customer validation, pilot deployments

Kansas — Kansas Innovation & Technology Enterprise (KITE) Grants

The KITE program supports high-growth technology companies in Kansas through commercialization-focused grants. Award amounts vary, but typically fall in the $50,000–$150,000 range depending on match requirements and project scope. The goal is to help founders move innovations out of research and into real markets.

KITE funds can cover prototyping, product refinement, testing, regulatory steps, technical hires, and preparation for pilot customers or investors. Kansas prioritizes sectors such as aerospace, advanced manufacturing, agtech, energy, and industrial analytics — sectors with strong existing infrastructure in the state.

What stands out is KITE’s emphasis on job creation and economic impact. Companies must demonstrate that funding will support measurable growth within Kansas, making this a strong fit for founders planning to hire locally.

Best for: Tech-driven startups in aerospace, agtech, industrial technology
Use of funds: Commercialization, prototyping, regulatory, hiring

Michigan — Emerging Technologies Fund (ETF)

Michigan’s Emerging Technologies Fund (ETF) provides matching funds for SBIR/STTR awards, supplementing both Phase I and Phase II awards for Michigan-based companies. Phase I matches typically cap around $25,000, while Phase II matches can reach up to $125,000 or more depending on cycle availability.

This is especially valuable in Michigan due to the state’s world-class manufacturing ecosystem. Many ETF-supported companies operate at the intersection of hardware, mobility, automotive technology, energy storage, advanced materials, and robotics. Matching funds help founders push high-risk R&D forward without raising venture capital prematurely.

ETF also strengthens Michigan’s strategy of becoming a national leader in mobility and electrification. Companies leveraging this program often partner with automotive OEMs, testing labs, or university research centers, accelerating commercialization.

Best for: SBIR/STTR awardees; mobility, energy, robotics, materials
Use of funds: R&D, testing, product development, commercialization

Minnesota — Launch Minnesota Innovation Grants

Launch Minnesota provides competitive Innovation Grants to early-stage startups developing scalable technology products. Awards usually fall between $20,000 and $35,000, with additional cost-matching for certain expenses such as R&D, technical development, or key hires.

Minnesota’s approach is unique because the program supports both technical and operational milestones — not just R&D. Eligible expenses can include product design, prototype builds, testing, staff, and business operations tied to early growth.

The ecosystem support around Launch Minnesota is strong. Recipients often receive mentoring, networking opportunities, and connections to corporate partners. For startups in software, medical devices, food/biotech, and advanced manufacturing, this grant accelerates early traction and increases investor confidence.

Best for: Tech startups; medical device innovators; software founders
Use of funds: R&D, prototype development, operations, technical hires

Missouri — Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) IDEA Fund

Missouri’s IDEA Fund provides a mix of early-stage co-investment and grant-style funding to startups in high-growth sectors. While the program sometimes uses repayable structures, many awards operate “grant-like” by supplying early capital without immediate repayment obligations.

IDEA Fund awards typically range from $25,000 to $100,000+, depending on program structure and company stage. Funding is used for prototype development, market validation, pilot programs with early customers, and key technical hires.

MTC’s involvement carries weight: investors and regional partners often view IDEA Fund selection as a sign of strong validation. Many successful Missouri startups in health tech, agtech, and software have used IDEA Fund capital as their first institutional check.

Best for: Early-stage tech startups; agtech; health tech; SaaS
Use of funds: Prototype builds, market validation, pilots, commercialization

Montana — Montana SBIR/STTR Matching Funds

Montana’s SBIR Matching Funds program provides additional non-dilutive capital to companies that win federal SBIR/STTR awards. Phase I matches typically fall between $5,000 and $20,000, while Phase II matches can reach up to $50,000 or more, depending on funding availability.

Montana’s ecosystem is increasing its support for companies in biotech, photonics, optics, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing. The state’s strong university research presence means founders can access specialized technical expertise while preserving equity.

Because Montana is capital-efficient — lower cost of space, talent, and overhead — even modest matching funds can provide significant leverage. Companies often use the match to extend Phase I feasibility studies or strengthen Phase II proposals.

Best for: SBIR-driven founders; biotech; optics/photonics; energy
Use of funds: Supplemental R&D, proposal enhancement, product refinement

Nebraska — Nebraska Innovation Fund (NIF) Grants

Nebraska’s Innovation Fund provides grants for prototyping, commercialization, and technical development to Nebraska-based startups. Prototype grants can reach up to $50,000, while commercialization grants may go significantly higher depending on impact and matching status.

Nebraska prioritizes startups operating in software, agtech, biosciences, robotics, and hardware — sectors aligned with the state’s workforce strengths. Funding can support prototype builds, early manufacturing, testing, validation, or initial sales development.

The NIF is particularly attractive because Nebraska maintains a balanced approach: the program supports both high-tech innovators and practical product-based businesses. Entrepreneurs in agriculture-related technology especially benefit from the state’s strong industry partnerships.

Best for: Prototype-stage startups; agriculture tech; software/hardware engineering
Use of funds: Prototyping, commercialization, testing, early manufacturing

North Dakota — InnovateND & SBIR Support

North Dakota’s InnovateND program provides milestone-based grants for customer discovery, prototyping, and early-stage development. Awards typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 per phase, with multiple phases available as companies hit key milestones.

The state also provides SBIR/STTR support, including proposal preparation funding and small matching awards for companies that secure federal R&D grants. Many North Dakota companies operate at the intersection of energy, agriculture, UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), and industrial automation — all strategic sectors for the state.

Because North Dakota has a rapidly expanding tech ecosystem supported by major energy companies and drone innovation hubs, these grants position founders to validate and commercialize products far more efficiently than in larger metro markets.

Best for: UAV/drone tech; energy; agtech; industrial software/hardware
Use of funds: Customer discovery, prototypes, SBIR prep, early development

Ohio — Ohio Third Frontier Technology Validation & Start-up Fund

Ohio’s Third Frontier TVSF program provides grants to validate technologies originating from Ohio research institutions and help launch startups around them. Awards often range from $50,000–$150,000 depending on the track.

The program has two major functions:

1. Validate commercial potential of university technologies
2. Provide seed-stage capital to startups licensing or commercializing those technologies

Ohio’s research-heavy institutions and industrial backbone make this one of the most effective programs in the Midwest for turning research into scalable businesses.

Companies that receive TVSF funding often go on to raise venture rounds and secure major industry partnerships — particularly in health tech, advanced materials, sensors, manufacturing systems, and automation.

Best for: University spin-outs; hardware startups; research-based companies
Use of funds: Market validation, prototyping, technical refinement

South Dakota — SBIR/STTR Matching & Phase II Prep Grants

South Dakota’s economic development office provides SBIR/STTR matching grants and Phase II preparation funding, typically up to $25,000 depending on the award phase. These grants are meant to help founders bridge the gap between Phase I feasibility studies and competitive Phase II proposals.

South Dakota’s program is especially useful for founders in biotech, manufacturing technologies, agriculture, and energy. The state’s low overhead costs allow companies to stretch both federal and state dollars farther, improving sustainability and reducing burn.

Because the ecosystem is small but focused, SBIR-focused founders often receive hands-on support with proposal development, commercialization planning, and federal agency engagement.

Best for: Early-stage SBIR companies; biotech; agriculture; manufacturing
Use of funds: Phase II proposal prep, R&D continuation, commercialization steps

Wisconsin — SBIR/STTR Support & Early-Stage Commercialization Grants

Wisconsin supports innovation-driven companies through a combination of SBIR/STTR matching grants and commercialization support programs. Matching funds often range from $50,000–$100,000 depending on federal award size and available state funding.

Wisconsin’s strength lies in engineering, biotech manufacturing, medical devices, agriculture, and industrial automation. The state has strong university partnerships and specialized research centers that complement early-stage grant funding.

Companies winning these grants often leverage them to secure manufacturing partnerships or pilot programs with large Wisconsin-based corporations — a unique regional advantage.

Best for: SBIR-focused startups; medical devices; biotech; manufacturing tech
Use of funds: R&D, commercialization pathways, piloting, team growth

West Region — Best Small Business Grant Programs by State

The West combines world-class tech corridors with powerful state-backed programs designed to help founders scale without giving up equity. From SBIR matching grants to commercialization accelerators, this region supports businesses that want to strengthen their total addressable market and move quickly from prototype to market adoption. Entrepreneurs looking for a grant in every state will find that the West offers some of the most competitive and high-impact non-dilutive programs in the U.S.

Alaska — Path to Prosperity Business Development Competition

In Alaska, one of the most founder-friendly non-dilutive opportunities is the Path to Prosperity Business Development Competition, focused on Southeast Alaska. Run in partnership with local economic development groups, it’s an annual competition that combines intensive entrepreneur training with grant awards to launch or expand small businesses. Winners have historically received $20,000 each to support their business plans, with dozens of entrepreneurs trained and 26 winners awarded over the program’s first decade-plus.

Eligibility is restricted to residents of Southeast Alaska, and applications are open to individuals, existing businesses, and tribal entities. The competition emphasizes businesses that create positive economic, environmental, and community impact, so mission-aligned concepts (sustainable tourism, food systems, local manufacturing, cultural arts, etc.) tend to do well.

A major advantage is that the money comes with serious capacity-building: finalists attend an “Entrepreneur Camp” or boot camp where they refine financials, operations, and growth strategies. For founders in Southeast Alaska, Path to Prosperity is the clearest path to non-dilutive startup capital plus high-quality training.

Best for: Community-rooted small businesses in Southeast Alaska
Use of funds: Launch or expansion costs, equipment, marketing, operations

Arizona — Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC)

The Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC), run by the Arizona Commerce Authority, is one of the largest tech business plan competitions in the country. It awards selected early-stage tech companies up to $150,000 in non-dilutive funding each, with cohorts selected in spring and fall cycles.

Beyond the cash, winning companies join the AIC portfolio, gaining access to mentors, ACA’s Venture Ready accelerator, investor networks, and ongoing commercialization support. The program is sector-agnostic within tech—AI, SaaS, medtech, fintech, edtech, and advanced hardware have all been funded—as long as there is strong growth potential and clear commercialization strategy.

For Arizona founders, AIC is a critical validation signal. Past awardees have collectively raised billions in follow-on capital and achieved dozens of exits. It’s competitive, but if you’re building a high-growth tech business in Arizona, this is the flagship non-dilutive program to aim at.

Best for: High-growth tech startups; SaaS; AI; medtech; deep-tech
Use of funds: Product development, hiring, commercialization, go-to-market

California — CalOSBA-Administered Small Business Grant Programs

California doesn’t have a single permanent “one-size-fits-all” small business grant; instead, the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) runs recurring and one-time grant programs funded by the state and federal partners. These include initiatives like the California Dream Fund (a $35M grant program seeding new businesses) and ongoing rounds of funding for small business technical assistance and ecosystem-building.

Most CalOSBA programs target specific goals: launching new microbusinesses, supporting underserved founders, stabilizing small businesses in crisis, or expanding technical assistance networks that directly serve entrepreneurs. Grants often flow through local partners (SBDCs, CDFIs, chambers, nonprofits), and some programs provide direct cash awards to businesses that complete required training and meet eligibility criteria.

The key play in California is to treat CalOSBA as the hub. Programs come and go, but CalOSBA remains the central node where new grant opportunities are announced. Founders who track CalOSBA and build relationships with local TA centers are first in line when new non-dilutive money becomes available.

Best for: Microbusinesses, underserved founders, early-stage California SMBs
Use of funds: Startup costs, stabilization, technical assistance–driven growth

Colorado — Advanced Industries Accelerator Grants

Colorado’s Advanced Industries Accelerator program, run by the Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), is one of the strongest state grant systems in the West for innovation-driven companies. It offers multiple tracks, but the big ones for small businesses are:

• Proof of Concept Grants (up to $150,000 for research institutions)
• Early-Stage Capital and Retention Grants (up to $250,000 per project for businesses)

These grants support technologies in seven “advanced industries” (aerospace, advanced manufacturing, bioscience, electronics, energy/natural resources, infrastructure engineering, and tech/IT). Funds can be used for commercial prototyping, regulatory steps, pilot projects, tech transfer, and early scaling.

Colorado’s ecosystem—Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins—makes these grants especially potent, because they plug founders directly into universities, labs, and corporate partners. For a high-tech Colorado startup, an Advanced Industries grant is both money and a badge of credibility.

Best for: High-tech startups in the seven advanced industries
Use of funds: Prototyping, commercialization, regulatory, early scaling

Hawaii — Hawaiʻi Small Business Innovation Research (HSBIR) Matching Grants

Hawaii’s HSBIR program is a classic SBIR/STTR matching grant with unusually strong terms. Companies that receive federal SBIR/STTR awards can apply for:

• Up to 50% match for Phase I awards
• Up to $500,000 for Phase II / III in total matching support over time

HSBIR also offers Phase 0 support, reimbursing some grant-writing costs for first-time SBIR/STTR applicants. The program is administered by Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) and aims to help local tech companies turn research into exportable products and high-wage jobs.

Because Hawaii is a higher-cost environment, these matches are game-changing. Companies in ocean tech, clean energy, defense, health, and agriculture can use HSBIR funds to advance R&D, hire specialized staff, and commercialize without giving up equity.

Best for: SBIR/STTR awardees in ocean tech, clean energy, defense, health, ag
Use of funds: R&D, commercialization, technical hires, grant-writing reimbursement

Idaho — Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM) Grants

Idaho’s flagship innovation program is IGEM — the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission. IGEM funds commercialization grants that support partnerships between Idaho’s research universities and private industry. Grants are awarded to universities working with industry partners on research with clear commercialization potential, especially in priority areas like biotech, energy, AI/ML, semiconductors, and cybersecurity.

For small businesses, the play is to become that industry partner. IGEM projects are designed to move technologies toward market—developing prototypes, testing new processes, and generating IP that can be licensed or co-developed. While the check technically flows through the university, the benefits (and often some budget) flow to the partner company’s commercialization efforts.

This model works well because it lets Idaho companies access top-tier research infrastructure without bearing the full cost. For founders in manufacturing, agtech, and deep tech, IGEM is the best vehicle to turn university R&D into real products and jobs.

Best for: Companies partnering with Idaho universities in biotech, energy, AI, advanced manufacturing
Use of funds: Collaborative R&D, prototyping, commercialization-oriented research

Nevada — Battle Born Growth & SSBCI Capital Programs

Nevada doesn’t lean heavily on traditional “grants to businesses,” but it has powerful grant-like capital programs funded through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). The umbrella brand is Battle Born Growth, which includes:

• Battle Born Venture – state-backed venture capital
• Microloan programs – fixed-rate loans up to $250,000 through nonprofit lenders
• Collateral support and loan participation to de-risk bank financing

These programs don’t hand out free money, but they unlock capital on terms that many small businesses couldn’t access alone. For example, collateral support can make a borderline bank loan possible, while microloans often come with flexible uses and technical assistance from experienced CDFIs.

For founders in Nevada—especially in tourism, food & beverage, logistics, and emerging sectors like climate tech—Battle Born’s SSBCI-backed capital can play the same role as a large grant would elsewhere: enabling equipment purchases, expansion, and working capital without predatory terms.

Best for: Nevada small businesses and startups needing capital; climate tech; scalable SMEs
Use of funds: Expansion, working capital, equipment, product development (via loans/VC)

New Mexico — SBIR/STTR Matching Grant Program

New Mexico’s SBIR/STTR Matching Grant Program, run by the Economic Development Department (EDD), provides additional non-dilutive funding to New Mexico companies that win federal SBIR or STTR awards. The program’s purpose is explicit: to accelerate commercialization of technologies developed with federal R&D dollars by funding market entry, customer acquisition, and expansion activities that SBIR budgets often don’t cover well.

Award sizes have varied by year, but recent cycles have offered tens of thousands of dollars per company, with caps per phase and per funding round. Funds can support business development, pilot deployments, marketing, regulatory steps, and customer validation—areas federal SBIR money usually restricts.

Because New Mexico has a strong science and tech base anchored by national labs and research institutions, this matching program is a critical bridge from lab innovation to market. If you’re a New Mexico SBIR recipient and you’re not applying for the state match, you’re leaving non-dilutive money on the table.

Best for: New Mexico SBIR/STTR awardees in deep tech, health, energy, defense, advanced materials
Use of funds: Commercialization, pilots, business development, market entry

Oregon — Business Oregon SBIR/STTR Support & Matching Grants

Oregon’s standout program is Business Oregon’s SBIR/STTR Support Program, which offers three main types of grants:

• Phase 0 grants to help prepare SBIR/STTR proposals
• Phase 00 grants for more advanced proposal support
• Matching Grants for companies that win SBIR/STTR awards

Phase 0/00 grants (often up to about $5,000 each) cover proposal development, market research, and pre-award work—crucial for first-time applicants. Matching Grants can provide up to $50,000 for Phase I and $100,000 for Phase II/Fast-Track awards, giving Oregon companies serious leverage during development and commercialization.

The state’s tech ecosystem—clean energy, semiconductors, outdoor products, advanced manufacturing, and software—benefits directly. Companies can use this layered funding structure to move from idea to SBIR proposal to full commercialization with a consistent non-dilutive backing.

Best for: Oregon-based SBIR aspirants and awardees in tech, manufacturing, clean energy, and devices
Use of funds: Proposal prep, R&D, commercialization, IP, market validation

Utah — Utah Technology Innovation Funding (UTIF) & TCIP

Utah’s innovation funding stack centers on two complementary programs:

• Utah Technology Innovation Funding (UTIF) – microgrants and nonrecourse loans tied to SBIR/STTR efforts
• Technology Commercialization and Innovation Program (TCIP) – non-dilutive commercialization funding for later-stage technologies (typically TRL 6–9)

UTIF helps Utah companies prepare, submit, and execute SBIR/STTR proposals by offsetting R&D and proposal costs. TCIP, historically administered by the state’s innovation/GO Utah apparatus, provides larger grants (often up to low six figures) to help companies bridge the gap between proven technology and market-ready product—covering prototyping, regulatory, pilot projects, and go-to-market work.

Utah’s ecosystem—especially around Salt Lake City and the “Silicon Slopes”—is rich in SaaS, medtech, and deep tech. UTIF + TCIP gives founders a clean, non-dilutive pathway from lab or prototype to scalable company, before or alongside traditional venture capital.

Best for: Utah startups in SaaS, medtech, life sciences, hard tech with SBIR/commercialization potential
Use of funds: SBIR alignment, commercialization, pilots, regulatory/market readiness

Washington — Innovation Cluster Accelerator & Evergreen Manufacturing Growth Grants

Washington is leaning heavily into cluster-based innovation, and that creates grant-style opportunities that directly benefit small businesses. The Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program (ICAP), run by the Washington State Department of Commerce, funds industry-led clusters (like clean tech, built environment, and advanced manufacturing) to build ecosystems around key sectors.

Programs like the Evergreen Manufacturing Growth Grants pump millions of dollars into regional strategies for manufacturing growth and cluster development. While these grants often go to intermediaries (nonprofits, alliances, cluster organizations), the money is used to support SME participation—pilot projects, supply-chain modernization, export support, and adoption of new technologies by small manufacturers and tech firms.

For founders, the play is to plug into the funded clusters. That can mean participating in pilot programs, demonstration projects, shared R&D efforts, or cluster-backed commercialization activities—many of which subsidize small business costs with state grant funding behind the scenes.

Best for: Small manufacturers, clean tech companies, industrial/IT startups inside funded clusters
Use of funds: Cluster-backed pilots, modernization, commercialization, export growth

Wyoming — SBIR/STTR Initiative & Matching Grants

Wyoming’s SBIR/STTR Initiative (WSSI) offers a multi-phase package of grants that support both SBIR proposal prep and post-award commercialization:

• Phase 0/00 grants up to $5,000 for early-stage proposal support (market research, proposal review, travel to meet program officers)
• SBIR Matching Grants that can match federal awards up to $100,000 for Phase I and $200,000 for Phase II, with limits on total matches per business

This structure means Wyoming founders can get help before, during, and after SBIR success. Phase 0/00 ensures stronger proposals; the match provides serious added runway for R&D and commercialization in a low-cost environment.

Given Wyoming’s push to diversify beyond energy—into tech, advanced manufacturing, and science-driven companies—these grants are central tools. For any Wyoming startup pursuing SBIR/STTR, WSSI should be considered part of the funding plan from Day 1.

Best for: Wyoming SBIR/STTR aspirants and awardees; science/tech founders
Use of funds: Proposal prep, R&D, commercialization, growth

Final Thoughts

Finding non-dilutive funding is one of the smartest moves an entrepreneur can make, especially in the early stages when every dollar matters and every decision shapes the future of your business. While national programs get most of the spotlight, the truth is that the most overlooked opportunities often live right in your backyard. With this guide, you now have a clear map to a grant in every state, plus Puerto Rico, so you can build your business with strategy—not guesswork.

Whether you’re validating an idea, expanding operations, or preparing for commercialization, use this resource as a starting point, not an endpoint. The strongest founders take these insights and pair them with local research, regional economic data, and long-term planning to build a defensible, scalable competitive advantage.

Ready for Your Next Move?

Want more business info than just a grant in every state? If you’re serious about putting this funding to work and building your entrepreneurial foundation the right way, explore two of our most valuable resources:

Hustler’s Library City Guides

Hustler’s Library Local Business guides are your blueprint for doing business in major U.S. cities. From banks and coworking spaces to legal resources and funding options, each guide gives you the real-world local context you need to operate like a pro.

Business Basics Library

The Hustler’s Library Business Basics Page is a clear, accessible glossary of the concepts every founder should understand—TAM, competitive advantage, non-dilutive funding, customer acquisition, scaling models, and more.

Stop spinning your wheels and start improving your business today with Hustler’s Library!