Grants for Cleaning Business: How to Get Funding in 2025

Starting or expanding a cleaning business in the U.S. can be financially demanding. Fortunately, various grants are available in 2025 to support entrepreneurs in the cleaning industry. This comprehensive guide explores the types of grants available, eligibility criteria, application processes, and tips to enhance your chances of securing funding.

Understanding Cleaning Business Grants

Grants are non-repayable funds provided by government agencies, corporations, or nonprofit organizations to support specific business activities. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment, making them an attractive funding option for small businesses.InvestopediaInvestopedia+4Nav+4Investopedia+4

For cleaning businesses, grants can assist with:

• Purchasing equipment and supplies
  

• Hiring and training staff
  

• Marketing and advertising
  

• Implementing eco-friendly practices
  

• Expanding services or locationsCoCountantJobber+4Nav+4CoCountant+4
  

Types of Grants Available

1. Federal Grants

Federal grants are offered by U.S. government agencies to promote economic development and innovation. While highly competitive, they provide substantial funding opportunities.

• Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program: Supports research and development projects with commercial potential. Award amounts range from $50,000 to $275,000 for Phase I and up to $1.8 million for Phase II. CoCountant
  

• Grants.gov: A centralized database for federal grant opportunities. While most listings are for organizations, some may be applicable to small businesses. NerdWallet: Finance smarter+17thejanitorialstore.com+17Grants.gov+17
  

2. State and Local Grants

State and local governments offer grants to stimulate regional economic growth. These grants often have less competition and may be tailored to specific industries or communities.

• Start.Pivot.Grow. Micro Grant: Provides $2,500 in non-dilutive funding to U.S.-based, for-profit companies with at least two years of operation, generating $50,000+ annually, and having no more than two employees. U.S. Chamber of Commerce
  

3. Private and Corporate Grants

Many corporations and private organizations offer grants to support small businesses, often as part of their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

• Jobber Grants: Awards $10,000 to home-service businesses, including cleaning companies. Applications are open through June 11, 2025. NerdWallet: Finance smarterJobber+1NerdWallet: Finance smarter+1
  
  

• Amazon Business Small Business Grants: Amazon Business is awarding over $250,000 in monetary grants and prizes to support the growth of 15 small businesses. Amazon Business
  
  

• FedEx Small Business Grant Contest: Offers $25,000 grants to existing businesses. Applicants must submit a video capturing their business story. Grants.gov+4Nav+4NerdWallet: Finance smarter+4
  
  

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for grants varies depending on the grantor's objectives. Common criteria include:

• Business Size: Many grants target small businesses with a specific number of employees or revenue thresholds.Investopedia
  

• Business Type: Certain grants are industry-specific, focusing on sectors like cleaning services.
  

• Location: Some grants are available only to businesses operating in specific regions or communities.
  

• Demographics: Grants may be designated for minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, or other underrepresented groups.Nav
  

• Business Stage: Some grants cater to startups, while others are intended for established businesses seeking expansion.
  

How to Apply for Grants

1. Identify Suitable Grants

Research and compile a list of grants that align with your business profile. Utilize resources like:NerdWallet: Finance smarter+11YourAspireSoftware+11U.S. Chamber of Commerce+11

• Grants.gov
  

• SBA.gov
  

• Nav's Small Business Grant Guide
  

• LegalZoom's Grant Listings
  

2. Review Eligibility Requirements

Carefully read the eligibility criteria for each grant to ensure your business qualifies. Pay attention to deadlines, required documentation, and specific application instructions.Nav

3. Prepare Necessary Documentation

Commonly required documents include:

• Business plan
  

• Financial statements
  

• Tax returns
  

• Proof of business registration
  

• Owner identificationthejanitorialstore.com+13Investopedia+13Investopedia+13
  

4. Craft a Compelling Application

Highlight how the grant will benefit your cleaning business and align with the grantor's objectives. Be clear, concise, and persuasive in your narrative.

5. Submit Before Deadlines

Ensure all application materials are complete and submitted before the specified deadlines. Late or incomplete applications are typically disqualified.NerdWallet: Finance smarter

Tips to Enhance Your Chances

• Tailor Applications: Customize each application to address the specific goals and requirements of the grant.Investopedia
  

• Seek Assistance: Utilize resources like the SBA's Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) for guidance. LegalZoom+6Investopedia+6Investopedia+6
  

• Maintain Accurate Records: Keep detailed financial and operational records to support your application.
  

• Demonstrate Impact: Clearly articulate how the grant will positively impact your business and community.
  

• Follow Up: After submission, follow up with the grantor to confirm receipt and express continued interest.

Alternatives to Grants

If grants are not accessible or suitable, consider alternative funding options:

• Small Business Loans: SBA-backed loans offer favorable terms for small businesses.YourAspireSoftware+1Nav+1
  

• Business Lines of Credit: Flexible financing options that allow borrowing up to a certain limit.YourAspireSoftware
  

• Personal Loans: Borrowing from family or friends can provide quick capital, though it carries personal risk.Jobber+1YourAspireSoftware+1
  

• Alternative Lenders: Companies like Greenbox Capital offer funding from $3,000 up to $500,000 with fast turnaround times. Greenbox Capital

Conclusion

Securing funding through grants can significantly aid in starting or expanding your cleaning business. By understanding the types of grants available, meeting eligibility criteria, and submitting compelling applications, you can increase your chances of obtaining financial support. Remember to explore all available resources and consider alternative funding options to ensure the growth and success of your business in 2025.