Six grant program opportunities open to Hayward small businesses

Hayward Upward


Image of a few stacks of coins in the dirt with plants coming out of them.

In support of Hayward small businesses, the City of Hayward Economic Development Division researches and shares small business grant opportunities provided by a variety of companies and private organizations. 

Grant availability, eligibility requirements, award amounts and deadlines for the grant programs vary, and local businesses are encouraged to review each opportunity carefully and contact the grant administrators directly with any questions. 
 
While the City of Hayward is not affiliated with the following six grant programs or the organizations administering them, we are committed to sharing relevant resources with our local business community:
  • The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge: The UPS Store, in partnership with Inc. magazine, is hosting the Small Biz Challenge, a national competition that gives eligible small business owners the opportunity to compete for a share of a $35,000 prize pool and gain national exposure. Finalists receive mentorship and the chance to pitch live for the grand prize, which can include up to $25,000 and a feature in Inc. magazine. This program is open to independent U.S. small businesses meeting eligibility criteria. Application Deadline: Feb. 22 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST). Learn more and apply: https://www.inc.com/theupsstore/small-biz-challenge
  • Amber Grant for Women-Owned Businesses: The Amber Grant awards three $10,000 grants each month to women-owned businesses. One monthly winner is selected each year to receive an additional $50,000 annual grant. Businesses must be at least 50 percent women-owned and operate in the United States or Canada.  Application Deadline: Last day of each month by 11:59 p.m. EST. Learn more and apply: https://ambergrantsforwomen.com/
  • Secretsos Small Business Grant: Secretsos provides $2,500 quarterly grants to U.S.-based small businesses to support growth and operations. Application Timing: Opens on the first day of each quarter at 12 a.m. Central Standard Time (CST) and closes on the last day of the quarter at 11:59 p.m. CST. Current Deadline: March 31, 11:59 p.m. CST. Learn more and apply: https://secretsos.com/grants/ 
  • The Kitty Fund Mompreneur Grant: This program awards a total of $20,000 in $1,000 micro-grants to 20 mom-owned businesses. Eligible businesses must have annual revenue of $5 million or less and between two and 100 employees. All founders must identify as mothers. Application Timing: Pre-registration is currently open; full applications open in March. Learn more: https://foundersfirstcdc.org/kitty-fund 
  • Breva Thrive Grant: Breva offers a recurring $5,000 grant to small businesses that are revenue-generating and making a positive impact. Application Timing:  April 1 to April 30. Learn more and apply: https://www.breva.ai/thrive-grant
  • Intuit Small Business Grants (QuickBooks & Mailchimp): Intuit periodically offers grants of up to $20,000 for small businesses that demonstrate community impact and innovation. Application Timing: The program operates on a rolling, nomination-based cycle throughout the year. Learn more and apply: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/offers/small-business-hero-program/