Love Is in the Air...So Is Funding (February Grants Inside)
February's grant lineup is here. Time to fund what you love.
Hey there! February's grant list is packed with opportunities for Black-owned businesses, women founders, nonprofits, and mission-driven organization, with $1,441,500.00 in funding, grants, and pitch competitions up for grabs. Here's something important: just because a grant doesn't list your exact industry doesn't mean you don't qualify. If it says 'Black-owned business' or 'women-led', that's YOU, whether you're in retail, consulting, media, healthcare, or anything else. Don't disqualify yourself before you even apply. We've done the research and now it's your turn to take action
1. New Profit BUILD Investments
New Profit's BUILD Investments program offers substantial, multi-year support for nonprofit organizations focused on education, economic mobility, and democracy. Eligible nonprofits receive approximately $1.5 million in unrestricted funding over a four-year term, paired with strategic advisory support from a dedicated Deal Partner. The program seeks social entrepreneurs who are meaningfully guided by the communities they serve and have the vision to co-design solutions to systems-level challenges. Applicants must be U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with an annual budget of at least $2 million and at least one full-time social entrepreneur leading the organization. Interested organizations can submit a Discovery Form year-round to express interest, and New Profit uses this to assess alignment before inviting formal applications. Selected organizations benefit not only from capital but also from capacity-building support, community connections, and enhanced credibility through the partnership.
Eligible locations: United States
2. Karma for Cara Foundation Microgrant Program
The Karma for Cara Foundation offers microgrants to support youth-led community service projects across the United States. This program is designed for students ages 18 and under who want to make a meaningful impact in their communities through hands-on service projects. Applications are reviewed quarterly with deadlines on January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1 each year. Eligible projects must go beyond simply purchasing and donating items—they should involve participants in actively transforming materials, organizing efforts, or creating something that benefits others. Examples include turning vacant lots into community gardens, rebuilding school playgrounds, or helping senior citizens prepare their homes for winter. The foundation does not fund stipends, facility rentals, transportation costs, or gift cards. Student groups may apply by designating up to three student leaders as points of contact. Notifications are sent within two weeks after each quarterly deadline.
Amount: $1,000
Eligible locations: United States
3. The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge 2026
The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge is a national competition offering small business owners the chance to win cash prizes along with national exposure through Inc. magazine. The competition is open to independently owned, non-franchised businesses with nine or fewer employees that are registered in the U.S. or District of Columbia. Nine semifinalists will be selected to work with established entrepreneur mentors on various business challenges, with answers shared publicly for voting from March 16 to April 5. The top three finalists will travel to Nashville, Tennessee on April 23, 2026, to pitch their businesses live before celebrity judges. The grand prize winner receives $25,000 plus an editorial feature in Inc. magazine, while the two runners-up each receive $5,000. This multi-stage competition combines cash prizes, mentorship, networking opportunities, and media visibility,making it ideal for business owners seeking both funding and brand-building opportunities..
Eligible locations: United States
Deadline: February 22, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST
Not ready to apply? Start with our Digital Grant Guide to get your business prepared for grant opportunities. [Grant Guide here]
There are 31 more grants totaling more than $$1,420,500.00 waiting, exclusively for Elite subscribers. Claim your access now