Starting or growing a small business in Miami-Dade County comes with unique challenges, but local entrepreneurs have access to several grant programs designed to provide critical financial support. Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment—making them an invaluable resource for business owners who qualify.
Here’s your guide to the current small business grant opportunities available in Miami-Dade County and how to position yourself for success.
Mom and Pop Small Business Grant Program
The Mom and Pop Small Business Grant Program is one of the most popular and accessible funding opportunities for small business owners in Miami-Dade County. Administered by individual County Commission districts, this program provides grants typically ranging from $2,500 to $3,000 to help local businesses cover essential expenses.
What It Covers
Grant funds can be used for:
- Equipment purchases
- Business supplies and inventory
- Marketing and advertising
- Security systems
- Minor renovations and improvements
- Technology upgrades
Eligibility Requirements
- Business must be located within the applying district
- Valid Miami-Dade County Business Tax Receipt (BTL)
- Operating for at least one year in most districts
- Must be a for-profit business
- Owner must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
District-Specific Details
Each commissioner’s district runs its own Mom and Pop program with slightly different timelines:
District 4: Applications typically open in February, with grants up to $2,500 available.
District 5: Part of the Elevate District 5 program, offering grants up to $2,500. Applications have been open through late May in recent cycles.
District 7: Offers grants up to $3,000 for businesses in areas including Coconut Grove. Application windows are announced annually.
District 8: Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins’ district offers up to $2,500 through their annual program.
Pro Tip: Check your district commissioner’s website regularly or sign up for their newsletter to be notified when applications open. These programs are competitive and funding is limited.
Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust (MDEAT) Business Grants
The Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust offers two distinct grant opportunities through their 2025 Business Grant Cycle:
Business Empowerment Grant
This program provides larger grants aimed at fortifying and enhancing businesses countywide. The grants typically span up to three years, offering sustained support for business growth and development.
Business Resource and Education Grant
Designed to help businesses access training, technical assistance, and educational resources, this grant focuses on building capacity and knowledge rather than direct operational expenses.
How to Apply
Applications are available through the Miami-Dade County Economic Advocacy Trust website. Prepare to submit:
- Detailed business plan or description
- Financial statements
- Documentation of how funds will be used
- Proof of business registration and operation in Miami-Dade County
Florida SBDC Resources
While not a grant program itself, the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Florida International University provides free consulting services that can help you identify and apply for grant opportunities. They also offer:
- Business plan development assistance
- Financial projection preparation
- Grant writing workshops
- One-on-one consulting with business experts
Their services are particularly valuable for preparing competitive grant applications. Many successful grant applicants credit SBDC guidance with helping them put together winning proposals.
Additional Funding Opportunities
Driving Small Business Forward Fund
This national program, accessible to Miami-Dade businesses, awards $50,000 grants plus access to a 12-week Boost Camp coaching program. The program specifically targets businesses that need commercial vehicle support to grow their operations.
Community-Based Organization Grants
While primarily for nonprofits, some small businesses structured as social enterprises may qualify for Miami-Dade’s Community-Based Organization Grant Program, which provides funding for organizations delivering human and social services.
Application Tips for Success
Start Early
Don’t wait until the deadline to begin your application. Grant applications require documentation that may take time to gather, including:
- Updated financial statements
- Current business licenses
- Tax returns
- Proof of business location
- Bank statements
Tell Your Story Compellingly
Grants are competitive. Beyond meeting basic requirements, you need to communicate:
- What makes your business unique
- How the grant will create measurable impact
- Why your business deserves support
- Your connection to the local community
Be Specific About Fund Usage
Vague requests get rejected. Instead of saying “I’ll use funds for marketing,” explain exactly how: “I will invest $1,500 in targeted social media advertising to reach Miami-Dade residents, with the remaining $1,000 going toward professional photography of our products.”
Demonstrate Community Impact
Grants often prioritize businesses that benefit the broader community. Highlight:
- Local job creation or retention
- Services provided to underserved communities
- Community involvement and partnerships
- Plans for business growth that will benefit the local economy
Get Professional Help
Take advantage of free resources:
- SBDC consulting for application preparation
- SCORE mentors with grant writing experience
- Local library business centers with research resources
Follow Instructions Exactly
This seems obvious, but many applications are disqualified for technicalities. If the application asks for two years of tax returns, don’t submit three. If the budget form has specific line items, use them as directed.
What to Do If You’re Not Awarded
Grant rejection isn’t the end of the road:
- Request feedback when possible to understand why your application wasn’t selected
- Apply again in the next cycle with an improved application
- Explore alternatives like microloans through organizations like Accion or community development financial institutions
- Build your track record by documenting business growth and community impact for future applications
Stay Informed
Grant opportunities change frequently. To stay current:
- Follow your County Commissioner’s social media accounts
- Sign up for Miami-Dade County business newsletters
- Connect with the Beacon Council, Miami’s economic development organization
- Join local business associations that share funding opportunities
Small business grants represent real money that doesn’t need to be paid back. For Miami-Dade entrepreneurs, taking the time to research and apply for these programs can mean the difference between struggling and thriving. Start your grant journey today.
Grant program details and deadlines are subject to change. Always verify current information directly with program administrators before applying.