New York has about 2.4 million small businesses, 99.8 percent of all businesses in the state, and they employ nearly half of its workers (SBA Office of Advocacy, 2025). That makes them crucial to the state’s economy, contributing to job creation, innovation, and economic growth.
However, these businesses face challenges like rising costs and economic uncertainties.
To support them, New York offers many generous grant programs to help entrepreneurs launch their startups and invest in growth, innovation, and sustainability without debt.
If you’re looking at starting a business in New York and need a small business grant to get going in the Empire State, here are some of the best options available.
What are small business grants?
Small-business grants are awarded to startups and existing businesses to help them grow and succeed.
Unlike loans, which you must repay with interest, or venture capital (VC), where investors take equity for funding, grants are free, making them an attractive option for small businesses, especially if you have problems qualifying for traditional financing or want to avoid debt.
Grants come from various sources, including federal and state governments, corporations, private foundations, and nonprofits.
New York state-specific small business grants for 2026
New York State offers grants to support start-ups and small businesses and encourage job creation and economic development within the state.
New York’s grant programs target various industries and needs, offering opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses (MWBEs), startups, and established businesses looking to expand.
These state-specific grants focus on fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable growth and are available through various state agencies.
1. New York State Consolidated Funding Application (CFA)
The CFA streamlines access to multiple state grant programs, including funding for economic development, sustainability projects, and workforce training; you can apply for different grants using one application form.
Application and eligibility process:
The CFA hosts multiple programs and initiatives that change throughout the year, so check periodically to see what’s available. The 2026 round closed July 31, 2026. The next round usually opens in late spring.
You can find information on the Regional Economic Development Council Programs by visiting the CFA Available Resources | Consolidated Funding Application (ny.gov) website.
2. New York StartUP! Business plan competition (CLOSED)
The New York StartUP! Business Plan Competition is run by the New York Public Library and offers aspiring entrepreneurs in The Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island the chance to win cash prizes, along with mentorship and access to NYPL business resources. Prizes have ranged from $7,500 to $15,000. NYPL hasn’t announced a new cycle.
Application and eligibility process:
To qualify, you must live in, and run your business in, Manhattan, the Bronx, or Staten Island, and have earned less than $10,000. Participants attend four workshops, a librarian consultation, and a business advisor meeting before submitting a business plan. Brooklyn and Queens residents have their own library competitions.
3. Global NY State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant
Distinct from the broader Global NY Fund, the Global NY STEP Grant provides smaller, more accessible reimbursement grants to New York small businesses pursuing specific export activities. Grants range from $2,000 to $5,000 per activity, and a company may apply for up to three activities per year, for a total annual cap of $10,000. The program is funded in part through a grant from the US Small Business Administration. It reimburses up to 50% of eligible costs. Funds for the current period (through September 2027) are awarded first come, first served until they run out.
Application and eligibility process:
Eligible activities include trade show participation, trade missions, Commerce Department services, translation, and other export development costs. Companies typically receive a status update within 30 business days of applying.
4. NYSTAR Innovation Matching Grants Program
Administered by Empire State Development’s Division of Science, Technology and Innovation (NYSTAR), the Innovation Matching Grants Program supplements federal SBIR and STTR awards received by New York-based small businesses. Companies that have received SBIR or STTR funding from the federal government are eligible for matches of up to $100,000 for Phase I and $200,000 for Phase II awards, capped at 50% of the federal award.
The program is specifically designed to fund commercialization activities not covered by federal SBIR/STTR awards, such as marketing, legal assistance, and other steps needed to bring a technology to market.
Application and eligibility process:
To be eligible, your business must have 100 or fewer employees and must have already received, or be actively applying for, a federal SBIR or STTR award. Rounds open at 9:00am on the 2nd Wednesday in October and April each year, and remain open for just one week, closing the following Tuesday at 5:00pm. Round 6 closed in October 2026. The next round is expected to open April 14, 2027. A single business may only submit one application per round.
Industry-specific and niche small business grants 2026
New York industry-specific and niche grants are financial programs that support businesses in specific sectors and demographics.
These grants promote growth and innovation in industries such as technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and manufacturing for underrepresented groups, including minority- or women-owned businesses, sustainability projects, and community-based ventures.
Unlike general small business grants, industry-specific and niche grants offer tailored funding that addresses the unique challenges within a field and provided by government agencies, industry groups, or private organizations.
1. Market New York Tourism Grant (CLOSED)
The Market New York grant program funds tourism marketing initiatives and working capital projects throughout the Empire State.
Small businesses and other eligible applicants can receive funding for marketing and for hosting special events like conferences, festivals, and athletic competitions.
Application and eligibility process:
- Round 16 (2026) funded tourism marketing and working capital projects only; capital projects weren’t eligible.
- Applicants can be nonprofit organizations or for-profit businesses authorized to do business in New York.
- Proposals should focus on marketing projects that promote tourism within the region or state.
- Applicants need a 50% cash match, and requests start at $50,000.
- Applications went through the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA), which closed July 31, 2026.
Contact the New York State Division of Tourism for information about future funding rounds.
2. Global NY fund grant program
The Global NY Fund Grant Program helps New York organizations increase global exports.
For-profit businesses can receive up to $25,000, while nonprofits are eligible for up to $100,000.
Successful applicants can use funds for activities like export workshops, adapting products for foreign markets, taking part in trade shows, and overseas market development.
Application and eligibility process:
- For-profit businesses can receive up to $25,000 in reimbursement, covering up to 50% of total project costs.
- Not-for-profit organizations that provide export assistance and trade education can receive up to $100,000, covering up to 75% of total project costs.
- Grant applicants should speak with an ESD Global NY Representative before applying, as failure to do so could significantly delay review and approval.
- Average processing time is approximately 90 days.
The Global NY Fund Grant Program is currently open and accepting applications on a continuous basis.
Federal grants available to NY businesses
Federal grants are non-repayable funds government agencies provide to support specific projects, initiatives, or research efforts.
For businesses in New York, these grants serve as a crucial source of financing for startups and small enterprises looking to innovate, expand operations, or conduct research and development.
New York businesses can access federal grant programs tailored to diverse needs, from technology development to export assistance.
1. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program
The SBIR program funds small businesses engaged in research and development with the potential for commercialization.
It stimulates technological innovation and supports healthcare, energy, and defense research.
Application and eligibility process:
You can apply through the various federal agency websites to participate in the program.
2. Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program
The STTR program funds small businesses collaborating with research institutions to develop innovative technologies.
This program encourages partnerships between small businesses and nonprofit research organizations.
Application and eligibility process:
You submit your application through the participating agencies, similar to the SBIR program
Note: The SBIR and STTR programs lapsed on September 30, 2025, after Congress missed the reauthorization deadline. Congress reauthorized both programs on April 13, 2026, through September 30, 2031.
3. Small business administration (SBA) grants
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is a federal agency offering resources and support to small business owners.
The SBA doesn’t offer grants to start or grow a business; its grants mostly go to research (SBIR) and to organizations that support small businesses.
In New York, the SBA operates through three district offices:
- SBA Buffalo District Office : Serves 14 counties in western New York. Businesses can contact the Buffalo’s main office or the Rochester’s satellite office.
- SBA Metro New York District Office : Covers 14 counties, including New York City, Long Island, and surrounding areas. The main office is in New York City, with a satellite office in Hauppauge.
- SBA Syracuse District Office : Supports 34 counties in upstate New York, with its office in Syracuse.
Application and eligibility process:
Visit the SBA website to explore grant opportunities and follow the provided application instructions.
Corporate and private foundation small business grants for 2026
Corporate and private foundation grants are financial awards given by businesses and philanthropic organizations to support small businesses, community projects, and initiatives that align with their mission or corporate social responsibility goals.
In 2026, many corporations and private foundations will offer grants targeting small businesses, focusing on sustainability, diversity, economic development, and technological innovation.
1. Freed Fellowship Grant
The Freed Fellowship provides a $500 micro-grant monthly to one U.S. small business owner.
Recipients of this monthly grant become eligible for a $2,500 year-end grant. Winners receive a one-on-one strategy session with a business expert and a year-long membership to the Freed Studio, a virtual entrepreneurial community.
Application and eligibility process:
- You must be a U.S.-based small or micro-business owner.
- The program encourages applications from underrepresented businesses.
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and must be submitted by midnight on the last day of the month to be eligible for that month’s grant.
- There’s a $19 application fee.
2. Amber Grant
WomensNet awards $15,000 Amber Grants to women-owned businesses every month, and three of each year’s monthly winners receive an additional $75,000 year-end grant.
Application and eligibility process:
The program is open to women-owned businesses, and one application keeps you eligible for the monthly grants. There’s a $15 application fee.
New York small business grant application process: best practices and tips
No matter which grant you apply for, following the application process and meeting all requirements is essential.
Here are some tips to assist you:
- Research: Understand the specific grant programs available and their eligibility criteria.
- Align your project goals with the priorities of the funding agency.
- Start early: Begin the application process well in advance to allow time for research, preparation, and revisions.
- Follow guidelines: Read and adhere to application instructions, including formatting, required documents, and deadlines.
- Develop a sound proposal: Outline your project objectives, timeline, and budget. Include measurable outcomes and show the impact of your project.
- Gather supporting documents: Prepare necessary documentation, such as business plans, financial statements, and letters of support.
- Review and revise: Edit your application for clarity, coherence, and conciseness.
- Seek help: Use resources such as Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) or local grant workshops for guidance.
- Network: Attend informational sessions or networking events related to grant opportunities to connect with providers and other applicants.
- Prepare for follow-up: Be ready to provide additional information or clarification if requested by the grant agency after submission.
Conclusion
Some final things you need to know about grants:
Most federal grants fund research and development (such as SBIR) or specific projects, not general business costs, and larger state grants can be challenging to get because of the application process, eligibility requirements, and competition.
A smarter approach is to apply for a smaller local or New York industry-specific grant, which could increase your chances of approval. A grant can also help cover the costs of starting and running an LLC in New York.