: The Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) supports small businesses in rural areas with funding for training, technical assistance, or infrastructure.

Major corporations frequently run grant programs to support small business ecosystems. Non-Dilutive Funding and Grants for Small Businesses

The federal government is a major source of free funding, though it often focuses on specific goals like innovation or supporting underserved communities.

: This is the primary database for all federal grant opportunities. In 2026, it remains the most comprehensive starting point for finding agency-specific funds.

"Free money" for a business typically refers to —capital that does not require you to give up any ownership (equity) or repay the funds with interest. For 2026, entrepreneurs have several pathways to secure this type of support, ranging from government-sponsored programs to private corporate initiatives. 1. Government Grants and Federal Programs