🏆 Top Small Business Grants in New Jersey (2025)

1. Small Business Improvement Grant (NJEDA)

• Purpose: Reimburses costs for building improvements or purchasing new furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
• Award: 50% of eligible project costs, up to $50,000.
• Eligibility: Open to small businesses and nonprofits with a minimum project cost of $5,000. Projects must have commenced on or after March 9, 2020, and within two years prior to the application date.
• Application: Accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.
• More Info: NJ EDA Portal

2. Route 80 Business Assistance Grant Program

• Purpose: Provides financial support to small businesses affected by Route 80 detours due to sinkhole repairs near Exit 34.
• Award: Grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000.
• Eligibility: Small businesses and nonprofits with up to 50 full-time employees, located within a five-mile radius of Exit 34. Applicants must certify a negative financial impact of at least $1,000 for Q1 2025.
• Application Window: Opens May 29, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. and closes June 4, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.

3. NJ State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)

• Purpose: Assists small businesses in expanding their export activities.
• Award: Financial awards on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Eligibility: New Jersey-based small businesses that are new to export or currently exporting goods and services.
• More Info: New Jersey Official Website

4. Mercer County Business Grants

• Purpose: Supports local businesses in Mercer County through two programs: the Revitalize and Grow Grant (for signage and façade improvements) and the Business Builder Rebate Grant (for specific business-related expenses).
• More Info Here

5. Community Foundation of New Jersey Grants

• Purpose: Offers various grants to support initiatives in health, education, and community development.
• Examples:
  • Empower New Jersey Grant: Supports economic empowerment projects; awards range between $50,000 – $100,000.
  • Sheila Williamson Memorial Health Grant: Funds grassroots health equity initiatives; awards range from $2,500 to $5,000.
• Application Deadlines: Vary by program; some close as early as June 30, 2025.
• More Info Here

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✅ How to Apply

• NJEDA Programs: Visit the NJEDA Application Center to apply for state-run grants.
• County and Local Grants: Check with your county’s official website or local economic development offices for specific application procedures.
• Nonprofit Grants: Refer to the respective organization’s website for application guidelines and deadlines.

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📌 Final Tips

• Stay Informed: Regularly check official websites and subscribe to newsletters for updates on new grant opportunities.
• Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents such as financial statements, proof of business registration, and project proposals in advance.
• Seek Assistance: Consider reaching out to local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) for guidance on the application process.
• Invest in your website or e-commerce store once you receive your grant!