Connecticut Small Business Grants & Funding Programs
Connecticut offers support for small businesses through statewide development programs, innovation-focused funding, and local initiatives serving startups, manufacturers, and service businesses.
Statewide Development Support
Connecticut businesses can access support tied to growth, capital investment, job creation, and business resilience through statewide partners.
Innovation and Technology Funding
Technology, biotech, and innovation-led businesses can find support through commercialization programs, startup initiatives, and research-connected funding opportunities.
Local Business Programs
Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, and other communities offer local business assistance, corridor support, and entrepreneur programs for eligible businesses.
Connecticut Business Grants
142 grants found
The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge
The 2026 UPS Store Small Biz Challenge offers entrepreneurs the chance to win a grand prize, including a cash award from the $35,000 prize pool and a spotlight in Inc. magazine.
The Mott Million Dollar Challenge
The Mott Million Dollar Challenge is a national pitch competition offering a share of $1 million in prizes to support innovative, real-world problem-solving ideas created by students in grades K–12.
Skip's $10,000 2026 Kickoff Grants
The Skip's $10,000 2026 Kickoff Grants offer funding to support U.S.-based entrepreneurs and small business owners.
State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) is a grant program that helps small businesses expand their exports.
AAUW Career Development Grants
The AAUW Career Development Grants offer up to $8,000 to help women take the next step in their STEM careers.
The Kitty Fund
The Kitty Fund will award a total of $20,000 to 20 small business owners who identify as mothers through the Kitty Fund Mompreneur Business Grant.
2026 Halstead Grant
The 2026 Halstead Grant recognizes emerging silver jewelry artists who show both creative talent and business potential.
Manufacturing Grants
SBA provides grants to help empower small manufacturers as part of the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative.
Associate Development Organizations (ADOs) Grants
Local economic development partners in each of Washington’s 39 counties, providing resources, loans, grants, and support for growth.
USDA Rural Business Loans & Grants
The USDA offers loans, loan guarantees, and grants to help businesses start, expand, or add value to their business in rural areas.
SBIR & STTR Innovation Grant Programs
Competitive grant funding from 11 federal agencies to help small businesses develop and test new products, ideas, or technology.
Early Education and Out of School Time (EEOST) Small Grant Program
The EEOST provides grants to tax-exempt nonprofit corporations to develop or improve a child care facility in which at least 50% of the child care enrollment consists of low-income families who are eligible to receive public subsidy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about business grants in Connecticut