New Year, New Funding: Grants to Start 2026 Strong
January is the perfect time to apply. Here’s a curated roundup of grants worth your attention this month.
What’s up business besties. 2026 is about being intentional with how we do business. Since you’re reading this, you are already taking the right step towards funding. It’s scary to say, but many CEOs, Founders and Executive Directors leave thousands of dollars on the table simply because they don’t know where to look. We got you! We curated a powerful list of grants, accelerators, and pitch competitions totaling $2,146,000.00 for small businesses and non profit organizations that could change your funding game
1. Kathryn B. McQuade Education & Skills Grant
Offered by the Kathryn B. McQuade Foundation, this grant will be awarded to nonprofit organizations that support education and skills training for youth and children. Applications are accepted from January 1 through March 31, 2026. The grant focuses on programs that equip young people with the skills and education needed to succeed academically and professionally.
Amount: $50,000
Eligible locations: United States
Deadline: March 31, 2026
2. Holohil Grant Program
The Holohil Grant Program supports wildlife conservation and research projects worldwide by donating Holohil transmitters (plus shipping) each quarter to studies that advance scientific knowledge, contribute to conservation, engage or educate the public, and focus on under‑represented species. Applicants must submit a brief (max 500 words) project summary via email, and submissions are reviewed quarterly. The program is open to conservation professionals, scientists, educators, and even informed non‑scientists from anywhere in the world, and recipients are asked to provide a short report and photos after using the equipment.
Eligible locations: Baltimore, Chicago, and Washington, D.C
Deadline: January 25, 2026
3. Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant
The Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant will be given one woman entrepreneur to help grow or scale her business. Applicants must be subscribed to the Her Agenda newsletter. The winner will be announced around March 2026. This grant is aimed at supporting women-led businesses with tangible growth potential.
Amount: $5,000
Eligible locations: United States
Deadline: January 18, 2026
Not ready to apply? No worries. Start with our Digital Grant Guide, packed with tips to get your business grant ready. [Grant Guide here]
There are 21 more grants totaling more than $2 million dollars waiting, exclusively for Elite subscribers. Claim your access now