Small Business Grants in California
California small businesses and startups have access to both state-specific programs and federal funding through SBIR, SBA, EDA, and USDA. Below are the most relevant programs — use Founder Kit to match your specific business to all programs you qualify for.
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California State Grant Programs
California Competes Tax Credit
NegotiatedGovernor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz)
Income tax credits for businesses that create jobs in California, awarded in competitive application rounds.
Learn more →IBank Small Business Finance Center
Up to $500KCalifornia Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank
Loans and loan guarantees for small businesses in low-wealth communities.
Learn more →CALOSBA Small Business Loan Guarantee
Up to $2.5MCalifornia Office of the Small Business Advocate
State-backed guarantees that help small businesses access capital they wouldn't otherwise qualify for.
Learn more →Federal Programs Available in California
SBIR / STTR
Phase I: up to $300K · Phase II: up to $2MMultiple federal agencies (NIH, NSF, DOD, DOE, NASA)
Non-dilutive R&D funding for small businesses with a technology or research component. Available in all 50 states.
Learn more →SBA 7(a) Loan Program
Up to $5MU.S. Small Business Administration
Low-interest loans for working capital, equipment, and real estate — the most accessible federal financing program.
Learn more →Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grants
$100K–$10M+U.S. Department of Commerce
Competitive grants for economic development projects in manufacturing, innovation, and tech.
Learn more →USDA Rural Development Business Grants
Up to $500KU.S. Department of Agriculture
Grants and loans for businesses in rural areas driving economic development and job creation.
Learn more →California Small Business Development Center
Free one-on-one advising for California small businesses — grant writing, business plans, and financing strategies.
Find your local SBDC →Form your company in California
Filing fee: $100 · Timeline: 3–5 business days
California requires a minimum of one director and prohibits par value stock. Nonprofits must include California-specific dissolution language.
Start formation wizard →Guides for California Founders
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