Small Business Grants in Mississippi (MS)

Securing a small business grant in Mississippi involves identifying the right opportunities, understanding the eligibility criteria, and preparing a compelling application. Here are some of the most relevant opportunities for small businesses in Mississippi:

Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) Grants and Incentives
The MDA offers various financial assistance programs to support small businesses and economic development in Mississippi. One such program is the Mississippi Small Business Assistance Loan Program, which provides low-interest loans to small businesses for working capital, equipment purchases, and other eligible expenses.

MSU Center for Entrepreneurship and Outreach (CEO)
The MSU CEO provides up to $10,000 of funding to student and faculty startup companies through multiple programs. Participants in the MSU VentureCatalyst™ program have access to up to $7,500 in grant funding.

Amber Grants for Women
This program offers three $10,000 business grants each month. The application process involves answering two questions about your business.

I Am JXN Micro Enterprise Grant
This grant is available to qualifying for-profit businesses with 5 or fewer full-time equivalent employees, including the owners, in Jackson, Mississippi. The maximum grant amount is $20,000.

CARES Act Funding
Mississippi has used CARES Act funding to support small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The state’s “Back to Business” program offered grants up to $25,000 each, administered by the Mississippi Development Authority.

Southern Mississippi Planning & Development District (SMPDD)
The SMPDD can provide funding up to $250,000 to start-up or existing businesses that are creditworthy and have a Minority Business Enterprise certification provided by the Mississippi Development Authority.

Mississippi Seed Fund
The Mississippi Seed Fund provides early-stage funding for high-tech and high-growth firms in Mississippi. The program is administered by Innovate Mississippi.

Review the eligibility criteria and application requirements. This may include providing detailed information about your business, demonstrating how the grant will be used, and showing how your business will contribute to the economic development of Mississippi. It’s also crucial to submit your application by the specified deadline.

There are also federal small business grants available to businesses in Mississippi, particularly those that contribute to the community’s economic development or create jobs.

Regularly check with local and regional economic development agencies, chambers of commerce, and other business support organizations for new grant opportunities.