Discover comprehensive small business grant opportunities in California. Find state grants, federal programs, women's business grants, and local funding opportunities available to California entrepreneurs in 2025.
Primary Agency: GO-Biz (Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development)
Population: 39.5 million
Official Website: https://business.ca.gov
The GO-Biz (Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development) is the primary state agency responsible for administering small business grants and economic development programs in California. Contact them directly for the most current grant opportunities and application requirements.
Grants for small businesses impacted by COVID-19 to support recovery and job retention
Agency: GO-Biz
Competitive tax credit program for businesses expanding in California
Agency: GO-Biz
Supports technology commercialization through regional innovation hubs
Agency: iHub Network
Seed funding for early-stage clean energy technologies
Agency: California Energy Commission
California offers specialized grant programs for women-owned businesses, supporting female entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and business development resources.
Grants supporting women entrepreneurs in technology and innovation
Funding for women of color starting or expanding businesses in California
In addition to state-level programs, many cities and counties in Californiaoffer their own small business grant programs with local funding priorities and requirements.
California offers multiple small business grant programs in 2025 including state-administered grants through GO-Biz (Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development), local economic development programs, and federal grants available to California businesses. Major programs include grants ranging from $5,000 to over $500,000 for business expansion, job creation, and economic development. California businesses can also access federal programs like SBA grants, USDA rural development grants, and SBIR/STTR technology grants.
To apply for California small business grants, start by visiting https://business.ca.gov and contacting GO-Biz (Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development). Most applications require a business plan, financial statements, proof of job creation or retention, and demonstration of economic impact. Applications are typically submitted online through the state's economic development portal. Processing times vary from 30-90 days depending on the program size and complexity.
Yes, California offers several grants specifically for women-owned businesses. These include state-administered women's business development grants, federal programs available to California women entrepreneurs, and local women's business council grants. California also participates in national programs like the Amber Grant and other women-focused funding initiatives.
Small business grants in California typically range from $5,000 to $500,000, with most grants falling between $10,000 and $100,000. Larger economic development grants can exceed $1 million for significant job creation projects. The average grant size depends on the program type, with small business development grants averaging $25,000 and major economic development incentives averaging $250,000.