Small Business Grants NJ: Unlock Free Funding Opportunities in 2025
🏆 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
✅ 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.
📌 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!
