Technology & Innovation Grants for Businesss

This grant provides $2,000 and free small business consulting to creative entrepreneurs in Allegheny, Beaver, Greene, and Washington counties, Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants are for-profit micro-businesses or aspiring entrepreneurs in creative fields with less than $200,000 in gross revenue. The program requires a business plan consultation with a Referral Coordinator before applying. Funds can be used to start or grow creative businesses, and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

This fellowship offers three tracks—Institutional, Individual, and Emerging Technology—for individuals or teams aiming to build innovative, open-source tools, resources, or products that benefit journalists and newsrooms. Open to applicants worldwide and from any background, the 8-month remote fellowship provides a $75,000 stipend (or $100,000 for Emerging Technology projects), paid in installments based on deliverables. Fellows are expected to build, test, and launch their project, which must be free and accessible to the journalism community. The program includes support and opportunities to share learnings through public deliverables.

This is a global social media video contest inviting creators to submit short, vertical videos (up to 30 seconds) that showcase real workflows or problems solved using Airtable. Selected videos will be used in Airtable's paid social campaigns, with creators receiving a $200 Visa gift card. All accepted entries are eligible for a $10,000 grand prize, awarded to the video with the highest click-through and conversion rates. Videos must meet specific technical and content requirements, and the deadline for submissions is January 30, 2026.

This startup competition for US-based founders or co-founders offers at least $50,000 in investment capital, significant in-kind seed services, and global media exposure. Finalists will participate in a high-production studio event in Dallas, TX, with the chance to advance to the World Championship for additional funding. The competition is open to startups at the idea or early growth stage, with applications accepted from October 15, 2025, to February 1, 2026.

This competition supports early-stage startups innovating in food and agriculture, with a focus on sustainable business practices. Eligible formative-stage companies can compete for a $50,000 investment and support from Penn State University and corporate partners. Finalists receive travel stipends and accommodations to participate in the pitch competition. The program is designed to help startups scale, advance R&D, and grow their teams.

This is the premier venture competition at Tufts University, offering teams led by students, faculty, staff, and recent alumni the opportunity to pitch new ventures in General, Social Impact, and Healthcare & Life Science tracks. Participants compete in live pitch events for a chance to win cash and in-kind prizes valued in total at over $250,000. The competition is open to new ventures at the idea or early growth stage and provides significant support and resources to help launch and grow innovative projects.

This is an early-stage program designed for top technical founders aiming to build generational businesses. Fellows receive $400,000 upfront funding for 7% equity on a SAFE, plus a guaranteed $600,000 in their next external funding round. The program includes an intensive 8-week in-person bootcamp in San Francisco or New York City, followed by a flexible residency phase with ongoing mentorship, community access, and support. Fellows benefit from over $300,000 in credits and perks, direct partner mentorship, and introductions to top investors. The Fellowship is sector-agnostic and supports ambitious founders from idea to seed stage, with a focus on long-term partnership and company-building.

This network offers up to $1 million in uncapped funding for startups, along with extensive support including office space in San Francisco or New York, 24/7 concierge service, customer introductions, and access to exclusive events with unicorn founders. Additional benefits include mentorship, potential for significant follow-on funding, and various perks such as tech credits and sporting event tickets. This opportunity is open to startup founders at various stages seeking both funding and a strong support network.

This accelerator is a four-month, in-person program in Silicon Valley designed to help early-stage startups scale rapidly. Selected founders receive a $150,000 seed investment in exchange for 6% equity, along with access to a robust curriculum, mentorship from industry experts, and a global network of investors and resources. Additional benefits include exclusive credits and discounts through the 500 FounderHub. The program is open to founders worldwide who are ready to participate in person and are seeking to accelerate their startup's growth.

This incubator partners with top technical founders and domain experts to build and invest in early-stage applied AI startups. Selected teams receive up to $600,000 in funding, $1,000,000 in cloud credits, and 12 months of hands-on company-building support, including design, commercialization, hiring, and operational assistance. The program is open to entrepreneurs globally, offering both remote and in-person collaboration, and provides access to a robust network of investors, partners, and AI experts.

This organization offers early-stage founders the opportunity to secure their first investment, access a San Francisco campus, and join a supportive community of ambitious builders. The program is open to founders working on innovative projects in emerging domains such as AI, AR/VR, hardware, content creation, and more. Selected applicants receive funding, workspace, and mentorship, with a focus on resilience and community support. To apply, founders simply need to share what they are building for a chance to be invited to campus and to give a formal pitch to receive equity investment in an amount TBD.

This is a 14-week program for pre-Series A startups demonstrating real traction. Each cohort selects only seven companies, providing a $125,000 investment in exchange for 7% equity. Participants benefit from weekly pitch sessions with seasoned investors, personalized coaching on fundraising and growth, and access to a vast network of angels and VCs. The program culminates in a high-profile demo day that offers significant exposure and fundraising opportunities for high-growth startups.

This accelerator supports enterprise and technical startup founders by providing tailored mentorship, access to investors, and a global network of industry leaders. The program is designed for teams solving complex, real-world problems and offers a structured path from idea to scalable business. Participants benefit from expert guidance, personalized growth support, and opportunities to connect with top-tier VCs, helping them refine their strategy, prepare for fundraising, and accelerate their company’s growth.

This grant provides $50,000 to innovative, high-growth companies headquartered and operating primarily in North Carolina. Targeted at startups with proprietary intellectual property or a sustained competitive advantage, the grant supports businesses that have demonstrated proof of concept and are ready to scale. Eligible applicants must have at least one full-time founder living in North Carolina and be addressing large, rapidly growing market opportunities. Companies with significant prior revenue or investment are less likely to be considered. The grant aims to help recipients achieve milestones that position them for institutional investment, further grant funding, or increased revenue.

This grant offers $75,000 non-dilutive grants to innovative, scalable, and job-creating early-stage startups, with an additional $25,000 available for companies relocating to St. Louis. Winners also gain access to a robust support ecosystem, including programming, fundraising assistance, and exclusive network benefits. To qualify, startups must headquarter in St. Louis for at least one year and meet team residency requirements. The competition is open to idea-stage to pre-Series A companies with technology-enabled solutions and diverse founder teams. Applications are accepted worldwide from February 18 to March 31, 2026.

This accelerator invests $100,000 in up to ten high-growth startups per year, focusing on fintech, insuretech, digital health, and data analytics. The 12-week accelerator program provides mentorship, co-working space, $1M+ in vendor perks, and opportunities to pitch to investors. Startups must have at least one founder based in the United States, and the program prioritizes entrepreneurs historically underserved in accessing capital. Applications are open for the Spring and Fall 2026 cohorts.

This opportunity offers $1,000 in grants and resources to small business owners across the United States. With a simple monthly application process, this grant aims to support passionate entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses. There is a $15 application fee

This opportunity offers a multi-week cohort program for US-based e-commerce businesses looking to scale. Participants receive a $10,000 business grant, with the opportunity to win additional funding through a pitch competition. The program also provides access to industry expertise, tailored workshops, process optimization services, expert coaching, and networking opportunities. Eligible applicants must have at least three years in business, annual revenue between $300,000 and $1,000,000, a business bank account, and be preparing to scale through storefront or wholesale expansion. Applications are open until January 30, 2026.

This accelerator supports U.S.-based nonprofits and mission-driven for-profits working to advance digital equity and prepare vulnerable workers for the evolving workforce. In 2026, the program will select five organizations to receive $100,000 in funding, $100,000 in technology and solutions, and participate in a six-month virtual capacity-building program. Eligible applicants must be legally registered in the U.S., reach at least 25,000 people annually, and have active programs focused on youth, on-demand workers, or small businesses. The Accelerator aims to help organizations scale their impact and close the digital divide through funding, technology, and expert support.

This grant is for creators using real-time 3D technology to drive social impact. The initiative supports projects that aim to make the world more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable, offering financial backing, technical guidance, and opportunities to reach wider audiences. Open to changemakers and storytellers globally.

This accelerator is a three-month, mentorship-driven opportunity designed for early-stage startups and founders worldwide. Selected companies receive capital investment, hands-on mentorship, access to a global network of corporate partners, investors, and alumni, as well as curated workshops and fundraising support. As of April 2025, they invest a total of $220,000 in each accepted startup through a 3-month, mentorship-driven accelerator program. This investment comprises a $20,000 cash injection for 5% equity (common stock) and a $200,000 uncapped convertible note (SAFE) with a Most Favored Nation (MFN) clause.

This tech giant offers a range of programs and initiatives to support startups at every stage, from early-stage through growth to well-established companies. Opportunities include accelerators with tailored technical and leadership training, guided online Startup School sessions, cloud cost coverage for AI startups, business support, and exclusive events. Startups can also access partner benefits, discounts, and connections to experts. Programs are open to startups worldwide and address a range of technical and business needs.

This mentorship program offers a grant and a comprehensive support package to founders of established, tech-enabled businesses. Participants benefit from expert-led virtual sessions, mentorship, business advisory support, and access to a vibrant entrepreneurial community. Eligible applicants must be 18 or older, have a majority-owned business registered for at least a year, demonstrate business traction, incorporate a technology component, and generate at least $50,000 in annual revenue.

This program/mentorship/accelerator support eight startups in Latin America that are working to reduce food loss and waste. The program targets for-profit startups with market-based solutions, particularly those leveraging data and AI to optimize food systems. Eligible startups must be legally incorporated in a Spanish-speaking Latin American country, have at least one full-time founder based in the region, possess a minimum viable product, and have raised less than $1M in equity. Selected participants receive tailored coaching, mentorship, networking opportunities, exposure, and access to a summit in Mexico City, helping them scale their impact and prepare for further investment or expansion.

This foundation offers a monthly microgrant to individuals and groups with creative, innovative, or inspiring ideas. Grants are awarded by local chapters around the world, with each chapter interpreting 'awesome' in its own way. Funding is available for a wide range of projects, including those in the arts, technology, community development, and more. The application process is simple, and grants are given with no strings attached, allowing recipients full ownership of their ideas.

This program supports LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs at all stages of business development by providing access to a global network, mentorship, investor connections, educational events, and business resources. Members benefit from tailored support, including a dedicated accelerator, expert office hours, and exclusive perks, all designed to foster growth and success within the LGBTQ+ entrepreneurial community.

This grant program celebrates the most innovative and impactful solopreneurs in the United States. Fifty honorees will receive recognition, visibility, community access, and resources, with the Top-5 receiving a share of $150,000 in grants to accelerate their ventures. Eligible applicants are solo business owners (the only full-time employee) across all sectors, evaluated on originality, performance, impact, authenticity, and influence.

This accelerator selects approximately 20 startups every six months to receive an equity investment and participate in a 6-month mentorship process. Open to startups worldwide, the program offers mentorship, workspace, business development resources, and access to a vast advisor and alumni network. Cohort teams receive guaranteed investment and the opportunity to present at Demo Day, while Pad-13 teams have access to many resources but do not receive guaranteed funding. The program supports startups across industries and provides significant in-kind resources and networking opportunities.

This global startup competition is for early-stage ventures leveraging technology to combat human trafficking and child exploitation. Open to pre-seed, seed, and Series A startups, the competition awards the winner a $100,000 investment, along with visibility, partnership opportunities, and a platform to present solutions to industry leaders. Finalists are invited to present at a high-profile event during SXSW in Austin. Applications are open to startups worldwide working on innovative solutions in areas such as child safety, labor trafficking prevention, survivor services, supply chain transparency, AI detection tools, fintech, hospitality, transportation, law enforcement, and online platform safety.

This pitch competition is for edtech entrepreneurs. Open to ventures at any stage and from any country, the competition awards significant cash prizes and provides access to a robust ecosystem of investors, mentors, and industry experts. Participants benefit from mentorship, feedback, and the opportunity to pitch their ventures live, with a focus on advancing impactful solutions in teaching and learning.

This renowned startup accelerator program is held in San Francisco in various cohorts throughout the year. Startups from anywhere in the world, at any stage of development, are eligible to apply. Selected companies receive investment, mentorship from experienced partners, access to a powerful alumni network, weekly events, and introductions to investors. Applications are submitted online, and promising applicants are invited to interview.

This microgrant offers funding to two independent podcasters worldwide who have been podcasting for three years or less. In addition to the cash grant, winners receive one year of free podcast hosting with RSS.com. The grant supports new and growing podcasters with funding, resources, and community exposure.

This fund seeks early-stage, tech-enabled startups headquartered in Chicago, led by founders who have faced material barriers to accessing capital due to racial discrimination, for an equity investment. The fund targets companies at the Friends & Family stage that have raised less than $25,000 in equity capital. Investments are made under a SAFE agreement with a $4M post-money valuation cap and a 20% discount rate. The application process includes a written application, video submission, and live interview, with a focus on fair and consistent evaluation.

This contest offers five grants of up to $20,000 each to early-stage entrepreneurs in Queens, NY. The program supports startups in categories such as consumer tech, enterprise tech, sustainability, community, and food-based businesses. Eligible applicants must be pre-seed or seed-stage startups, attend at least four program events, and submit an online application. Winners are selected through a multi-stage judging process culminating in a live pitch event.

This grant is for women seeking to enter, transition into, or advance within fields where women are underrepresented, especially in STEM, business, law, and leadership roles. The grants support short-term, accredited certificate or training programs that lead to employment or advancement within 6-12 months. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, identify as women, hold at least an Associate’s degree, and be pursuing professional advancement in fields where women hold less than 50% representation. Degree programs are not eligible. Applications are reviewed on a rolling, competitive basis, and funds are disbursed at the start of the grant term.

This grant offers non-dilutive funding, technology upgrades, and strategic support to growth-stage consumer brands in the CPG sector. Designed for companies with established online traction, the grant provides a full website upgrade, managed migration to the provider's e-commerce platform, and access to mentorship and industry connections. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and eligible brands must demonstrate consistent online revenue and a readiness to scale their digital operations.

Dare to Post is a 30-day daily posting challenge for creators, offering a share of a $100,000 prize pool to those who complete the challenge. Participants must join the Dare to Post community, sign up for Stanley IG, and post a qualifying Instagram Reel or Carousel daily from February 17 to March 18, 2026, tagging @stanforcreators and using #StanDareToPost. All eligible finishers split the prize pool equally. The challenge aims to help creators build consistency, confidence, and community, with additional access to resources and support.

This grant supports U.S.-based for-profit and nonprofit organizations in using wearable technology to drive social and economic change. Eligible applicants must be incorporated in the U.S. for over 12 months and not be a government entity. Recipients gain access to a collaborative network of innovators. Priority areas include skills, employment, health, economic growth, community, accessibility, and support for veterans, but applications from all sectors are welcome.

This grant/fund offers grants to eight fashion businesses or startups with innovative circular fashion solutions. One global winner will also have the chance to receive a sizable investment. The program provides financial support, mentoring, investor workshops, and brand growth opportunities to help businesses scale sustainable practices and reduce fashion industry waste. Open to businesses globally, with a preference for U.S.-based applicants.

This accelerator accepts up to ten tech startups per year, focusing on fintech, insurtech, digital health, and data analytics. The accelerator supports entrepreneurs from historically underserved backgrounds, particularly those facing barriers to capital and financial access. Selected startups receive funding, a concierge experience, and tailored support to help scale their businesses.

This pitch competition for startups with at least one female MIT-affiliated founder or C-Suite member. Eligible companies must have less than $1M in annual revenue and less than $10M in equity funding. The event, held in NYC, offers a grand prize and a runner-up, along with networking and exposure to investors. Applicants must be able to attend the event in person, and prior applicants are welcome to reapply.

This pitch competition for Michigan-based startups focuses on outdoor recreation. Eligible companies must have limited prior investment and revenue. Finalists will be selected to present live at the event on March 27, 2026. Applications require a form and pitch deck or executive summary, with a deadline of March 3, 2026.

This grant is for early- and growth-stage startups in Detroit. Eligible applicants must be legally incorporated, have a strong operational presence in Detroit, and offer a technology-based or innovation-driven product with a scalable model. Startups should demonstrate early execution through MVPs, customer validation, or key milestones. The application process takes 45–60 minutes, and semifinalists may be asked to submit a video pitch. Funding decisions are based on program alignment, total score, and available resources.

This accelerator program supports student entrepreneurs in the U.S. with innovative business ideas. Selected startups receive up to non-dilutive grant funding, access to significant compute credits, mentorship from industry leaders, and the chance to pitch to hundreds of institutional investors. The program aims to empower the next generation of founders by providing capital, resources, and a robust network to help scale their ventures.

This virtual, cohort-based business accelerator is designed for early-stage collegiate founders and recent graduates. Participants will engage in a month-long virtual program featuring a tailored curriculum, peer networking, and entrepreneurial training. The program culminates in a pitch competition, with top founders earning the opportunity to attend the WBENC National Conference in Salt Lake City, UT. Eligible applicants must be current students or recent graduates (within the past 12 months), founders or owners of a business operating for at least six months, and committed to full participation in all program activities.

This fully funded, 8-week virtual program is designed for maturing consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands aiming to scale into mass retail. The accelerator offers tailored education, mentorship, and resources to help diverse founders refine their sales strategies, build brand identity, and meet retailer compliance requirements. Participants benefit from workshops, 1:1 mentoring, pitch coaching, and direct access to retail buyers and distributors. The program is ideal for CPG brands with established sales, team members, and shelf-ready products looking to expand their retail presence and business capacity.

This is a program for U.S.-based startups developing catalytic technologies that enable industrial decarbonization and defossilization. Targeting companies at the pre-seed or seed stage with TRL 3–8, the program offers access to industry expertise, collaboration opportunities, technical validation, and exclusive networks, but does not provide direct funding. Selected startups benefit from engagement with Shell and Technip Energies, potential pilots, and increased visibility in the greentech sector.

This grant supports early-stage startups—both nonprofit and for-profit—that are reinventing local journalism in the United States. The challenge is open to founders, creatives, and entrepreneurs building innovative tools, models, or platforms that strengthen community-centered journalism, with a focus on local impact and digital innovation.

This grant supports implementation-ready projects that strengthen Michigan’s circular supply chains. Eligible projects include recycling, reuse, repair, remanufacturing, recycled-content products, supply chain adaptation, and upstream circular innovations. The program is designed for current entrepreneurs, founders, and creatives at the pre-seed or seed stage, with a preference for projects based in Michigan.

This is a pitch competition and grant opportunity for founders from the Military and Intelligence Communities who are building B2B/G tech startups. Eligible applicants include military veterans, military spouses, and former intelligence professionals who are part of the founding team of a pre-Series A, U.S.-based B2B/G software or technology startup.

This pitch competition is for early-stage and growth-stage startups in AI enablement, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing. The event features a live pitch competition judged by industry experts and offers significant networking opportunities. Startups with innovative solutions in areas such as robotics, integrated optics, quantum computing, and sustainable technologies are encouraged to apply.

This grant offers funding and mentorship to female-founded businesses based in North Texas. Designed to support entrepreneurs at any stage, the grant provides both capital and access to a network of leading female founders. The application requires business and financial details, a founder story, and a plan for using the funds.

This accelerator is for edtech startups in the U.S. with at least $200K in product revenue and repeatable paying customers. The 10-11 week accelerator provides hands-on support, sector expertise, and access to a strong network, helping companies scale their impact in K–12, higher education, workforce development, and lifelong learning. Up to five companies are selected per year, with opportunities for follow-on capital based on milestones.

This pitch competition offers a cash prize and additional business support to mission-driven, sustainability-focused CPG brands. The competition is designed for early-stage and growth-stage entrepreneurs in food, beverage, supplements, and personal care sectors.

This pitch competition is for emerging CPG brands in the U.S., offering a cash prize and in-kind prizes valued at over $700,000. Open to early-stage companies with annual sales under $20 million in qualifying categories, the competition provides access to experts, valuable networking, and an all-expenses-paid trip to pitch at the C360 conference in San Antonio, TX. Applicants must have products available for U.S. sale and be able to participate in both virtual and live pitch events.

This accelerator is for women-led startups with limited access to resources and funding. Offering a grant, three months of business training, mentorship, legal support, coworking space, and more, the program targets early-stage, tech, tech-enabled, or CPG businesses with strong or emerging product-market fit. Eligible applicants must be from or willing to relocate to Tulsa, OK, have an incorporated business with at least $10K in revenue or equivalent traction, and commit to full-time participation. The program aims to help founders accelerate growth, strengthen their brands, and build scalable, repeatable systems for success.

This accelerator program is for early-stage pet and petcare startups based in the United States. Selected startups receive an investment, expert mentorship, milestone support, and access to a network of industry leaders. The hybrid program includes both in-person and virtual components, culminating in a demo day presentation to investors and industry professionals.

This grant is for entrepreneurs and first-time founders, offering equity-free funding, Microsoft Azure credits, and mentorship. Open to early-stage, for-profit ideas or projects, the program provides access to AI tools, resources, and a global platform. Finalists will participate in a three-day World Final in the US, culminating in the selection of a global winner. Applicants must submit a one-pager, with support available from the AI Application Tool to help brainstorm and refine ideas. The opportunity is open globally, with a preference for US-based applicants.

This grant provides funding to individuals, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and teams to build add-ons (plugins, extensions, or integrations) for Adobe Express. The fund supports new ideas that enhance creativity and improve workflows for millions of users, with a focus on presentations, enterprise efficiency, connected workflows, and design intelligence. Applicants do not need to be developers, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.

This foundation is seeking technologists worldwide who are building AI systems to strengthen democracy. This 2026 incubator program will fund 10 projects for 12 months, supporting initiatives that use AI to improve information quality, institutional transparency, and civic space. Eligible projects must be beyond the prototype stage, with AI as a core capability, and demonstrate real-world use. In addition to funding, participants receive mentorship, skills workshops, network access, and opportunities to pitch at Mozilla Festival. The strongest projects may be considered for additional funding. Applicants must commit to active participation and public reporting, and projects must not engage in political campaigning.

This grant provides up to $1 million in funding for pre-seed startups and founders across industries. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and funds can be used for general business growth and development.