Veteran business grants offer a valuable opportunity to secure free funding that can help you launch or grow your business. Unlike small-business loans or other forms of debt-based financing, these grants don’t require repayment, making them a preferred option for veterans seeking financial assistance. Applying for these grants can be competitive and time-consuming, but the potential rewards are significant if you are successful. Whether you are a veteran starting a business or looking to expand an existing venture, this guide will help you navigate the top 21 grants available for veterans in 2025, plus additional financing options like loans for construction businesses and free resources to support your growth.

1. Veteran Entrepreneur Portal (VEP) Grants

The Veteran Entrepreneur Portal provides a wealth of resources for veteran business owners, including information on various grants, loans, and other funding opportunities. One notable offering is the VEP’s partnership with government and private entities to connect veterans to small-business grants specifically tailored for their needs.

2. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program

The SBIR program offers grants to small businesses that are focused on innovation, including those owned by veterans. This program is ideal for veteran entrepreneurs in tech, healthcare, or other industries where research and development are key.

3. Hivers and Strivers

Hivers and Strivers is a venture capital fund specifically for U.S. Military Academy (West Point) graduates who are pursuing business ventures. While not a traditional grant, it provides financial backing to veteran-owned businesses in their early stages.

4. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants

Veterans running small businesses can apply for NASE Growth Grants, which provide up to $4,000 to help with business expansion, marketing, and other essential needs. This is a great option for veterans looking to grow their companies quickly.

5. The StreetShares Foundation

The StreetShares Foundation offers grants and funding opportunities to veteran business owners. Their Veteran Small Business Award offers funding and mentorship to promising veteran entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses.

6. Amber Grant for Women Veterans

The Amber Grant is a $10,000 monthly grant for women entrepreneurs, and it includes a $25,000 annual grant. Women veterans in business can apply to this grant for support to grow their companies in various sectors, from technology to retail.

7. Warrior Rising

Warrior Rising is a nonprofit organization that supports veterans in starting and growing businesses. They offer grants and educational resources to help veterans succeed in the entrepreneurial world.

8. Veterans Business Fund

The Veterans Business Fund is dedicated to assisting veterans with capital for starting or expanding their businesses. This nonprofit organization offers low-interest loans and grants for veterans who need funding to establish or grow their ventures.

9. TAP (Transition Assistance Program) Small Business Workshops

TAP offers various resources for veterans transitioning to civilian life, including small business workshops and guidance on securing funding through grants. These workshops can help you identify and apply for veteran business grants.

10. The VetFran Program

The VetFran Program offers financial incentives to veterans interested in franchising. This initiative provides grants and discounts on franchise fees, making it easier for veterans to enter the world of business ownership.

11. The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program

The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program offers grants and support to veteran business owners in need of assistance in the government contracting space. Veterans can apply to become eligible for sole-source contracts with the federal government.

12. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

The VA offers several funding programs, including VA Small Business Grants, for veteran entrepreneurs. These grants are designed to support businesses that focus on hiring veterans and those that are committed to making a positive impact on the community.

13. Bunker Labs

Bunker Labs provides a range of resources, including grants and networking opportunities for veterans looking to start businesses. Their Bunker Labs Founder Institute is an excellent resource for veterans who need guidance, mentorship, and funding for business ideas.

14. SBA Community Advantage Loans

Although not a traditional grant, SBA Community Advantage Loans can provide veterans with affordable, low-interest loans to help finance their small businesses. These loans can be a great option if you're looking to complement grants or if you don’t qualify for other types of funding.

15. Military Entrepreneur Program

The Military Entrepreneur Program helps veterans navigate the process of starting or growing their businesses through various resources, including grants and loan options for those needing capital. It’s a great starting point for veterans interested in pursuing entrepreneurship.

16. Blue Star Families' Veteran Entrepreneur Resources

Blue Star Families provides a host of resources for military veterans, including grant programs specifically focused on veteran entrepreneurs. They partner with local businesses and nonprofit organizations to offer small-business grants.

17. The Idea Cafe Small Business Grant

The Idea Cafe Small Business Grant is a great option for veterans looking to start or expand their small businesses. This grant provides funding for innovative business ideas and helps veteran entrepreneurs scale their businesses with financial support.

18. Vetrepreneur Award by StreetShares

Another initiative by StreetShares, the Vetrepreneur Award, offers up to $15,000 in grants for veteran entrepreneurs. This program is geared towards helping veterans grow their businesses and expand their reach.

19. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Grants

The USDA offers various grants for businesses in rural areas, including those owned by veterans. If you are looking to start a business in agriculture, farming, or rural development, the USDA provides several funding opportunities specifically for veteran business owners.

20. Patriot Boot Camp

Patriot Boot Camp is a nonprofit organization that provides business education, mentorship, and financial support for veterans looking to enter the world of technology and entrepreneurship. They also offer a variety of grants and funding opportunities for veterans.

21. Loan for Construction Businesses

If you are a veteran in the construction industry, finding a loan for construction businesses can be an essential tool for your company's success. While it’s not a grant, there are several financing options available for veteran-owned construction companies, including SBA loans, private loans, and other construction-specific funding options.

Additional Resources

In addition to these grants, there are other resources available to veteran business owners, including SCORE, which offers free mentoring, and VET-Force, which connects veteran business owners with networking and growth opportunities. For veterans in construction, securing a loan for construction businesses can also complement your efforts in funding your venture.

Conclusion

Veteran business grants and other financial opportunities can be a game-changer for veterans looking to start or grow their small businesses. While the application process may require time and effort, the resources available to you as a veteran entrepreneur are invaluable. By taking advantage of these top 21 grants and exploring other financing options, including a Affordable Business Loans, you can set your business up for long-term success. Don't forget to tap into the wealth of free resources and programs available to help you navigate the world of entrepreneurship and secure the funding you need.