When it comes to fueling the growth of small businesses, access to funding can make all the difference. For Black-owned small businesses across New England, the Power Forward Small Business Grant offers more than just financial assistance — it’s an opportunity to gain visibility, resources, and community support to thrive for years to come.
💡 What Is the Power Forward Small Business Grant?
The Power Forward Small Business Grant is a collaborative initiative by Boston Celtics United, VistaPrint, and the NAACP, designed to economically empower Black-owned small businesses across New England. Through this program, businesses can receive transformative grants of $25,000 to strengthen their operations, expand their reach, and make a greater impact within their communities.
This program is fueled by a combined $1 million commitment from VistaPrint and the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation, ensuring that dozens of small businesses will benefit on a rolling basis — meaning there’s no fixed deadline to apply.
But the Power Forward Grant goes beyond financial support. Recipients also receive:
- Marketing and design resources customized to their brand and business goals.
- Opportunities to be featured on national, co-branded platforms — offering powerful exposure.
- Ongoing visibility and credibility from being associated with well-known partners like the Celtics and the NAACP.
In other words, this is more than a grant — it’s a growth partnership.
🧩 Who Qualifies for the Power Forward Grant?
To apply, your business must meet the following eligibility criteria:
✅ Be a Black-owned small business.
✅ Employ 1 to 25 team members.
✅ Be based and operating in one of the following areas:
- Massachusetts
- Maine
- New Hampshire
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Or select areas of Connecticut
Applicants should be able to demonstrate their community impact — how their business contributes positively to their local area — and explain how they intend to use the $25,000 grant to make a measurable difference.
If that sounds like your business, this opportunity could be your next big break.
📅 Deadline: None — applications are accepted year-round.
🔗 Apply here: usbusinessgrants.org/apply
💼 Not Ready for Grants? Explore These Alternatives
While grants are amazing because they don’t require repayment, they can take time and effort to secure. If you’re looking for faster funding solutions, here are some great alternatives:
1. Small Business Loans
If your business is well-established and your credit is strong, consider applying for a bank loan or SBA loan. These often come with lower interest rates and flexible terms.
2. Business Lines of Credit
Need ongoing access to cash? A line of credit allows you to borrow as needed and only pay interest on what you use — perfect for managing cash flow.
3. Merchant Cash Advances or Invoice Financing
If you’re still building your credit, these can provide quick access to capital based on your future sales or invoices.
4. Small Business Credit Cards
If your funding needs are smaller, a credit card can help cover purchases while earning rewards or cash back.
📚 Where Else to Find Small Business Grants
1. GrantWatch
GrantWatch.com is one of the most comprehensive databases for grants of all kinds — from federal to private funding. Although it’s a paid service, it’s constantly updated and allows you to filter through 25,000+ grants to find the ones best suited for your business niche and location.
2. Your Local Library
Your local library is an underrated goldmine for small business owners. Librarians are skilled researchers who can help you access databases and connect with local business networks. Many libraries also partner with Chambers of Commerce and business development organizations, making it easier to find community-specific funding opportunities.
🏢 Free Resources to Help Your Business Grow
Even if you don’t win a grant right away, there are plenty of free resources that can help you prepare stronger applications and build your business foundation:
Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)
SBDCs provide free mentoring and training for small business owners. They can help you:
- Write a strong business plan.
- Understand financing options.
- Connect with other entrepreneurs.
- Craft a winning grant application strategy.
You can find your local SBDC through SBA.gov.
SCORE.org
SCORE is a nonprofit backed by the Small Business Administration that connects entrepreneurs with free mentorship and workshops. Mentors can review your grant applications, help you build a pitch, or guide you toward local grant opportunities.
Tip: Watch SCORE’s webinar on “How to Find and Get a Small Business Grant” for step-by-step guidance.
State Agencies
Most states have departments or offices dedicated to supporting local businesses. Visit your state’s Department of Corporations or Economic Development Office website to find state-funded grants and low-interest loan programs. Sign up for their newsletters to stay updated on new funding rounds.
🚀 Final Thoughts
The Power Forward Small Business Grant isn’t just another funding program — it’s a movement dedicated to uplifting Black entrepreneurs and helping them create sustainable impact in their communities. Whether your business is a café in Boston, a design studio in Vermont, or a wellness brand in Rhode Island, this grant offers the resources and visibility you need to take your business to the next level.
If you’re eligible, don’t wait — apply today and join a network of forward-thinking business owners who are shaping the future of Black entrepreneurship in New England.
🔗 Apply Now: usbusinessgrants.org/apply
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