Get up to 2% cashback** redeemed to your personal bank account. Chat with us.

Startups Grants In Texas - 2024

Explore our comprehensive List Of Startups Grants In Texas designed to fuel growth for innovative entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Lisa Shmulyan
Accounting & Tax
February 15, 2024

Small businesses and startups in Texas can find many grants that don't have to be paid back. These grants help various groups and industries. They include young farmers, women entrepreneurs, veterans, and minority owners. Texas offers these opportunities at the state and local levels and through private sources, too. This shows Texas's dedication to building an economy full of different businesses. It helps new and small businesses grow.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas Workforce Commission’s Skills for Small Business Program offers up to $1,800 per year for each new employee.
  • Young Farmer Grants by the Texas Department of Agriculture range from $5,000 to $20,000 and cover up to 50% of expenses1.
  • The Texas Enterprise Fund provides grants for businesses expanding or opening new facilities1.
  • Center for Women Entrepreneurs offers StartHER Grants, which provide $5,000 to women-owned small businesses1.
  • The Texas State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) supports small businesses with up to $10,000 in export grants1.
  • The Open for Business Grant Program in Houston offers grants from $5,000 to $100,000 for diverse-owned small businesses1.

Introduction to Startups Grants in Texas

Texas is a place where entrepreneurs and small businesses find strong support through grants. These grants are vital for sparking new ideas and helping businesses grow throughout the state. With over 3 million small businesses, Texas's economy is bustling with entrepreneurial energy2. Nearly half the workers in Texas are employed by small businesses, showing their significant impact on local communities2.

Finding the right funding for business expansion in Texas involves looking into many programs. For instance, the Texas Enterprise Fund offers grants from $75,000 to $40 million if you create lots of jobs2. The Texas Workforce Commission has a grant program too, giving up to $1,800 per new employee each year3. These efforts highlight Texas's dedication to helping businesses succeed.

A key resource for startups is the Texas StartUp Directory. It lists incubators, accelerators, coworking spaces, and more available across the state. It encourages using local support from governments, chambers of commerce, and schools. Programs like 3 Day Startup and others at Baylor University are showcased. You can find the directory here4.

Grants in Texas also target specific industries. There are grants up to $1,300 for music projects and $4,000 for animal conservation4. Entrepreneurs can find up to $40,000 in startup funding4. For more opportunities, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce lists many grants available nationwide, broadening the scope for Texas entrepreneurs2.

Applying for grants involves research and meeting deadlines. For example, Texas nonprofits have until August 15, 2024, to apply for certain grants4. Using Texas GrantWatch and the Texas Southwest Small Business Development Center Network can help in securing these important funds2.

Texas is an excellent place for startups and small businesses aiming to flourish. Thanks to numerous grant programs and strong community support, entrepreneurs have what they need to innovate and grow in the state.

Texas Workforce Commission’s Skills for Small Business Grant Program

The Texas Workforce Commission's Skills for Small Business Grant Program is a great help for businesses. It is for those looking to train their teams. Small companies with fewer than 100 workers can get funds to pay for training. They can use it for both new and current full-time employees at local schools5.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for grants, your business must have under 100 employees. This helps ensure the program really benefits small businesses in Texas, which are over 433,000 strong5. The goal is to make teams better, ready for growth and more competition. Both new hires and long-time workers can join in on the training6.

Funding Details

Businesses can get up to $1,800 a year for each new hire for training costs6. If you have employees already, they can get up to $900 each. In total, there's $2 million available to help small businesses in Texas through this program5. This money supports training and keeps companies competitive5.

Application Process

It's easy to apply for the Skills for Small Business Grant. You can do it all year because the Texas Workforce Commission supports ongoing learning. Just fill out the form on the TWC's website. You'll need to share details about what training you need and how many people work for you7. The process gets Texas businesses the tools they need for their teams to thrive.

Texas Enterprise Fund

The Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) boosts Texas' economy. It does this by giving big financial help to businesses. These businesses create lots of jobs and invest a lot in Texas.

Overview

TEF is all about sealing the deal. It offers hefty rewards to companies expanding or starting new projects in Texas. These efforts boost the economy and promote higher wages locally. The main goal? To back companies that promise to create many jobs and invest big.

Want to see who got grants between FY2004 and FY2011? Check the Texas Enterprise Fund Award Listing8.

Eligibility Criteria

Companies eyeing TEF grants must hit specific targets. These include creating lots of jobs, paying good wages, and getting strong support from local government. Only those committed to these goals can join the program. Grant dollars — between $1,000 and $10,000 per job — are decided through an economic model9.

Also, companies must prove that a TEF grant is key to their expansion plans in Texas.

Funding Amounts

TEF grants vary, tailored to each project's needs. They consider job creation and investment size. TEF picks applications that promise the most economic boost. Amounts range from $50,000 to $750,000. This helps cover project costs and supports jobs for those with lower to moderate incomes9.

From FY2004 to FY2011, TEF supported various sectors. This includes biotech, aerospace, and finance. It shows TEF's broad impact on Texas' economy8.

Young Farmer Grants

The Texas Department of Agriculture has a Young Farmer Grant program. It aims to boost agriculture by helping emerging farmers. The program gives matching grants from $5,000 to $20,000 every fall and spring10. It is open to Texans aged 18 to 45 who are U.S. citizens. They can use these funds for various qualifying farming projects.

For a farmer's project to get funding, they need to match the grant equally. They also must show how the money was spent10. The Young Farmer Grant does not cover big purchases over $5,000. This rule makes sure the funds support impactful yet affordable projects10.

The grants have a bigger goal than just funding projects. They do not support farming as a hobby or give multiple awards to one family for the same project10. This shows Texas's commitment to serious farming businesses. The state wants to help its next generation of farmers grow in a sustainable way.

There's a wide variety of grants available for young farmers in Texas11. These include funds for education and research in agriculture11. Young farmers can find grants for areas like organic farming, disaster relief, and technical training. This variety helps ensure the growth of Texas's agricultural sector.

The Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Development Program adds to this support network12. It offers new farmers education, mentorship, and technical help. This program helps new farmers understand the farming industry better. Together, these efforts show Texas's active role in supporting young farmers, building a strong agricultural future.

Center for Women Entrepreneurs StartHER Grant

The Center for Women Entrepreneurs at Texas Woman's University has a special offer. It's the StartHER Grant to help women-owned businesses in Texas. Each of the ten selected businesses receives $5,00013. This money goes to various business needs, making it easier for female entrepreneurs to succeed.

Grant Details

The StartHER Grant is for women-owned small businesses with at least 51% female ownership13. These businesses must be in Texas and have five or fewer full-time employees13. The grant is given in two parts: $2,500 at the start and the rest after completing some requirements13.

Getting the full grant requires signing an agreement, taking part in training, and presenting a business plan13. This ensures the money is used well to grow the business.

Eligibility Criteria

To get the StartHER Grant, businesses must be female-led and based in Texas13. But certain people can't apply. This includes TWU staff, their families, past grant winners, and recent CWE program participants13. This rule helps new and growing women-owned businesses get a chance.

Application Timeline

The chance to apply for the StartHER Grant is from September 3 to October 4, 202414. Applicants must show how they spent the money to get the second part of the grant13. A personal investment of $500 is needed, without taking on new debt13. Meeting the deadline is key to taking advantage of this big funding opportunity.

Veteran Woman Grant

The Texas Woman’s University (TWU) offers the Veteran Woman Grant, giving $5,000 to 25 women veterans in Texas. They focus on the entrepreneurial spirit of these women15. This effort helps women veterans in Texas grow their small businesses15.

Applicants must prove they are women and veterans. They also need to submit a detailed business plan15. This process helps make sure the money goes to businesses truly run by veteran women. It supports the local economy by including these important entrepreneurs.

This program is part of greater support for female entrepreneurs in Texas. For instance, WomensNet gives $10,000 monthly grants to women who own businesses. They also give out $25,000 annually to chosen winners in all states and Canada16. Groups like NASE and Verizon also offer grants for veterans17.

Texas has many SCORE chapters in cities like Austin and Dallas16. They offer vital mentoring and support. Investments from Hivers & Strivers Capital and Veteran Ventures Capital boost funding for veteran-owned businesses15.

These Texas grants are more than just money. They also offer mentoring and networking. This well-rounded support helps veteran-owned businesses start and grow in Texas's economy.

The Alamo Small Business Grant Program

The Alamo Small Business Grant Program helps Texas small businesses grow. It offers financial help for things like renovations and buying equipment. Businesses that have been around for at least two years can get up to $2,500 to help them succeed18.

Program Benefits

Local businesses get crucial financial aid from this grant. The money can improve storefronts, which makes the neighborhood look better. It helps businesses stay strong and stand out18.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for this grant, your business must have been running for two years. This rule ensures that only serious and stable businesses get help. You also need to show detailed plans and agreements when you apply18.

Application Steps

To apply, you'll need to put together a detailed proposal. Make sure you have all the necessary papers ready. Once your application is in, it's reviewed, and if approved, you get reimbursed for up to $2,500 of your costs18.

For extra info on how to get involved with the Alamo grant, check out the San Antonio Economic Development Department's Program and.

Texas State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)

The Texas State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grants aim to help Texas small businesses reach global markets. They are managed by the Texas Department of Agriculture. This program gives up to $10,000 in grants to help companies sell their products abroad.

These incentives boost local industries and help Texas businesses compete worldwide. To get this grant, a business must have been running for at least a year. They also need to pay 25% of the grant, showing they are committed to growing exports.

This effort is part of bigger support for Texas businesses, adding up to over $91,001 million19. STEP is crucial for supporting activities like farming and exports. It makes Texas businesses stronger in trade20.

Open for Business Grant Program in Houston

The Open for Business Grant Program in Houston helps small businesses grow. It's powered by the Wells Fargo Houston Equity Fund. The goal is to support diverse small businesses in underprivileged areas. These grants boost Houston's economy and make it stronger.

Overview

The Houston Equity Fund runs this grant program. Small businesses can get grants between $5,000 and $100,000. This money helps them buy what they need to grow their company. Houston is a great place to start a small business, ranking 22nd in the U.S21..

Eligibility Criteria

To get a grant, businesses must be in Houston and often run by women, racial minorities, or other underseen groups. In Houston, 44% of small businesses are led by women, and 22% by minorities21. This grant aims to give these groups more chances by offering financial help.

Application Process

The grant application is simple but detailed. Applicants fill out a form online, explaining their business and financial needs. They might also need to share a business plan. Those selected usually show they can grow and help the community. Programs like LiftFund and Liftoff Houston also offer help, working well with this grant21.

Filling out an application for this grant can really help Houston's small businesses. It gives them the funds needed to thrive. Thanks to the Wells Fargo Houston Equity Fund, local businesses foster a rich and inclusive economy.

Lubbock Economic Development Alliance Grants

The Lubbock Economic Development Alliance (LEDA) offers grants to help businesses grow and fix up downtown Lubbock. LEDA helps bring in new companies and supports current ones in getting better at what they do.

Grant Programs

LEDA's grant programs help with many business needs. This includes money for making downtown better and for other business upgrades. Businesses can get cash help and pay-backs for making their places nicer and other upgrades.

LEDA doesn't stop there. They also help with figuring out what workers are needed, analyzing the economy, and finding places for businesses to set up. To learn more about what LEDA does, click on the official LEDA website22.

Eligibility Requirements

To get a grant from LEDA, your business needs to be in certain areas, follow tax rules, and either own or lease the property for a long time. LEDA works with local groups to make sure businesses fit with Lubbock's goals22.

Application Steps

Applying for LEDA grants means following a clear set of steps. This makes the process fair for everyone.

  • First, you apply and tell what upgrades or improvements you want to do.
  • Then you share important documents, like proof you own the property, tax records, and your project plans.
  • A review by LEDA and its partners checks if your project is a good fit and can really help.
  • If your project gets the green light, you start work. After you're done and everything checks out, you get paid back22.

LEDA grants play a big role in making downtown Lubbock better. They also help local businesses grow stronger in Lubbock's economy.

Conclusion

Exploring the world of successful startup grants in Texas might seem tough at first. But, Texas offers a wide variety of grants that help the economy grow. There are many choices like the USDA Rural Business Development Grant which helps small companies. It is for businesses with fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in revenue23. And, Amazon's Small Business Grant gives up to $25,000 every year23. These options encourage business expansion in Texas.

In cities, specific programs are also key. For instance, the Lift Fund Texas in Houston offers microloans up to $500K especially to women, minorities, and startups24. The variety of grants means different types of businesses can find help, boosting the state's economic growth. Places like the Capital Factory in Austin and Bio Houston support tech and biotech startups. They help make Texas known as a place where new businesses can thrive24.

For those hit by COVID-19, there are special grants and programs to help. They are there to help businesses recover and keep going. Knowing about these grants, along with other financial options like loans and crowdfunding, is vital. It helps businesses find the right support to grow. Overall, Texas's wide-ranging grant programs play a big role in promoting economic well-being. They show Texas's strong commitment to its communities and innovation.

FAQ

What types of Texas small business grants are available?

Texas has many grants for small businesses, like those for young farmers and women entrepreneurs. Also available are grants for veteran and minority-owned businesses. These grants are found at state and local levels for different industries.

How can small businesses benefit from grant funding in Texas?

Grants offer vital funds to help small businesses grow without needing to repay. This money can support training, expansion, and improving operations.

What is the Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) Skills for Small Business Grant Program?

The TWC Skills for Small Business Grant helps with training new and current full-time workers. It gives up to $1,800 per new worker and $900 for current ones each year. To get this grant, a business must have fewer than 100 employees.

What are the eligibility criteria for the Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF)?

The TEF helps businesses that create lots of jobs and pay well. These businesses should have strong local government support. They must be planning big expansions or new sites that bring more jobs and investment.

Who is eligible for the Young Farmer Grant in Texas?

Young farmers in Texas, aged 18 to 45, can get the Young Farmer Grant. They must be U.S. citizens and work in Texas. The grant offers $5,000 to $20,000 to help start or grow agricultural projects.

What is the StartHER Grant provided by the Center for Women Entrepreneurs?

The StartHER Grant gives $5,000 to small businesses in Texas run by women. To be eligible, women must own more than half of the business. It should have no more than five workers. The grant can be used for various needs. Applications open from September 3 to October 4, 2024.

What support does the Veteran Woman Grant offer?

The Veteran Woman Grant aids small businesses in Texas run by women veterans. It offers money and combines business skills with military experience.

What does the Alamo Small Business Grant Program cover?

The Alamo Small Business Grant Program provides up to $2,500 for storefront upgrades and business costs. It's for businesses in Alamo, Texas, operational for over two years.

How does the Texas State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) assist businesses?

The STEP program offers up to $10,000 to small businesses in Texas expanding exports. Businesses must be at least a year old and enhance Texas products or services. They also need to contribute 25% of the grant amount.

What is the Open for Business Grant Program in Houston?

The Open for Business Grant Program in Houston gives financial help to diverse small businesses. Supported by the Houston Equity Fund and Wells Fargo, grants range from $5,000 to $100,000. They support asset buying and other needs.

What types of projects do the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance Grants support?

The Lubbock Economic Development Alliance Grants focus on improving properties and commercial areas in Downtown Lubbock. Businesses must meet certain rules related to location, ownership, and taxes.

Meet Every, bookkeeping & taxes for startups and entrepreneurs

Contact our team for tailored advice & assistance

Subscribe to get founder advice delivered straight to your inbox.