How To Get A Startup Business Grant As A Student

Starting a business as a student can be challenging, but grants can provide the financial support needed to launch your idea without taking on debt. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, making them an excellent funding option. Here’s how you can secure a startup business grant as a student.

Identify the Right Grants

There are many grants available for student entrepreneurs. Some are industry-specific, while others are open to all innovative startups.

Student-Specific Grants

• Thiel Fellowship – $100,000 for students under 22 who drop out of school to start a business.
• The Dorm Room Fund – Seed funding for student-run startups.
• VentureWell E-Team Grant – $5,000–$25,000 for college students developing innovative products.

Government and Nonprofit Grants

• Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grant – For students with tech-based startups.
• National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grant – Up to $4,000 for small business growth.
• FedEx Small Business Grant – Up to $50,000 for startups, including student-led businesses.

Industry-Specific Grants

• Halstead Grant – $7,500 for student jewelry designers.
• Arch Grants – $50,000 for businesses in St. Louis, open to students.
• AWS Activate for Startups – Free cloud credits and tech support for student-led startups.

Develop a Strong Business Plan

Most grant applications require a well-thought-out business plan. A strong plan should include:

• A clear problem statement – What issue does your startup solve?
• Market research – Who is your target audience?
• A unique value proposition – What makes your business stand out?
• Revenue model – How will your business make money?
• Growth strategy – How will you scale over time?

If you need help writing a business plan, many universities offer entrepreneurship programs or startup incubators that provide mentorship.

Prepare a Winning Application

Each grant has different requirements, but a compelling application should include:

• A strong personal story – Why are you passionate about this business?
• Proof of progress – Do you have a prototype, website, or early sales?
• Clear use of funds – How will you spend the grant money to grow your startup?

Build a Network & Get Support

Many grants prefer applicants with strong mentorship and industry connections. You can:

• Join university startup competitions to gain credibility.
• Connect with past winners to learn from their experiences.
• Engage with local business incubators that offer additional funding opportunities.

Explore Alternative Funding Sources

If you don’t win a grant, other funding options include:

• Crowdfunding – Platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe.
• Pitch Competitions – Many universities and organizations offer cash prizes for top startup ideas.
• Angel Investors – Some investors focus on funding student-led startups.