March Madness: The funding edition
Brackets aren't the only thing heating up this month. $1,908,500.00 in grants waiting.
March Madness isn’t just about brackets, it’s also about bagging funding. We’re talking $1,908,500.00 in grants, pitch competitions, and real money for Black-owned businesses, women founders, and nonprofits ready to make moves.
Quick reminder: if a grant says “Black-owned business” or “women-led,” that’s you, whether you’re in consulting, retail, nonprofit work, or running a mobile detail business. Don’t bench yourself because they didn’t name your exact industry. If the eligibility fits, you’re in the game.
We scouted the opportunities. Now it’s your turn to shoot your shot.
1. Breva Thrive Grant
Breva AI awards grants every quarter to small businesses making a positive impact in underrepresented communities. If you've been in business for at least one year, you're encouraged to apply (though newer businesses can too). This grant supports Black-owned, women-led, and mission-driven entrepreneurs across all industries who need a little extra capital to scale operations, buy equipment, hire staff, or boost marketing. Your business must be legally registered in the U.S. and operate here. Applications are reviewed quarterly, with the next deadline October 31, 2025. The best part? No industry restrictions. Whether you're in consulting, retail, or healthcare, if you're building something that strengthens your community, apply.
Amount: $5,000
Eligible locations: United States
Deadline:
Q2 2026: April 1 - April 30, 2026 ← Next available window
Q3 2026: July 1 - July 31, 2026
Q4 2026: October 1 - October 31, 2026
2. NBA Foundation Grants
The NBA Foundation awards grants to nonprofits dedicated to serving under-resourced youth (ages 13-24) in NBA team markets across the U.S. and Canada. Focus areas include workforce development, career readiness, job placement, and economic empowerment through programs in arts, criminal justice, healthcare, music, STEM, and sports. Spring 2026 applications are open through March 31. Apply through their FLUXX portal. Must provide Form 990, organizational budget, project budget, and board list.
Eligible locations: United States & Canada
Deadline: March 31, 2026
3. Karma for Cara Microgrant
Karma for Cara offers microgrants to youth-led community service projects across the U.S. for students ages 18 and under. Applications reviewed quarterly with deadlines January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1. Projects must involve students actively transforming materials or organizing efforts (not just purchasing and donating items). Examples: turning vacant lots into gardens, rebuilding playgrounds, helping seniors winterize homes. Student groups can designate up to three student leaders. Notifications sent within two weeks after each deadline.
Amount: $250 - $1,000
Eligible locations: United States
Deadline: Upcoming Quarter Deadline (April 1)
Not ready to apply? Start with our Digital Grant Guide to get your business prepared for grant opportunities. [Grant Guide here]
There are 27 more grants totaling more than $1,882,500.00 waiting, exclusively for Elite subscribers. Claim your access now.