Starting a small business in Tennessee can be facilitated through various grants and funding opportunities. Here are some potential sources for grants to support the establishment and growth of small businesses in Tennessee:
- Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC):
- TSBDC provides business counseling, training, and resources for entrepreneurs. While they may not offer direct grants, they can provide guidance on accessing funding, including loans and grants, for small businesses.
- Launch Tennessee:
- Launch Tennessee supports startups and small businesses in the state. While they may not directly provide grants, they offer resources, mentorship, and connections to funding opportunities for entrepreneurs.
- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) – Tennessee District Office:
- The SBA offers various programs and services to support small businesses, including loans and grants. Explore the SBA’s programs and check with the Tennessee District Office for information on available funding.
- Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD):
- TNECD may provide grants and incentives for businesses looking to expand or relocate to Tennessee. Explore their business development programs for potential support.
- Tennessee Rural Development (RD):
- The USDA Rural Development office for Tennessee offers programs that support rural businesses, including grants and loans. Explore their business and industry programs for potential funding opportunities.
- Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA):
- TVA provides economic development programs to support businesses in the Tennessee Valley region. While they may not offer direct grants, they provide assistance and resources for business growth.
- Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee:
- Local community foundations, such as the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, may offer grants or support for small businesses. Explore community foundation grant programs that align with your business goals.
- SCORE Tennessee:
- SCORE, a nonprofit organization, provides mentoring and educational resources to small business owners. While not a grant provider, SCORE can offer valuable guidance on accessing funding opportunities.
- Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center – Nashville:
- The MBDA Business Center in Nashville supports minority-owned businesses. While not a direct grant provider, they may offer assistance and connections to resources for small business development.
- Angel Investors and Venture Capital Firms:
- Explore opportunities to secure funding from angel investors or venture capital firms based in Tennessee. These investors may provide capital in exchange for equity in your small business.
- Local Chambers of Commerce:
- Local chambers of commerce in Tennessee may have information on grants, loans, and resources available for small businesses. Connect with your local chamber to inquire about available support.
Always verify the eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and deadlines for each funding opportunity. Additionally, consider exploring industry-specific grants, local business associations, and networking with other entrepreneurs for insights into available funding sources for starting a small business in Tennessee.