7 Small-Business Grants You Can Apply For in February 2026

If you’re running a small business in 2026, the hustle is real—but so is the opportunity. While traditional loans are an option, there is still “free money” on the table in the form of grants. The catch? You have to move fast before the deadlines pass.

We’ve rounded up the top active grants for February 2026. Whether you are a tech startup, a local micro-enterprise, or a growing brand looking to pivot, one of these could be the capital injection you need.

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1. Intuit QuickBooks & Mailchimp Small Business Hero Program

This is one of the premier opportunities available this month. Beyond just the cash, this program offers significant exposure and brand storytelling for your business. It’s perfect for owners who have made a positive impact on their community or industry.

• Grant Application Page: Apply Here
• Program Hub (Stories & FAQs): Learn More
• Pro Tip: Use the hub to read past winners’ stories to see what kind of impact Intuit is looking for before you submit your nomination.

2. Secretsos Small Business Grant

Designed for entrepreneurs who have hit walls with traditional financing, Secretsos provides “non-dilutive” capital—meaning you get the funds without giving up equity in your company.

• Primary Info (SoCal Hub): Full Details
• Application Platform: Submit via F6S
• Who it’s for: Micro-enterprises looking for a boost to overcome specific financial hurdles.

3. Start.Pivot.Grow. Micro Grant

Growth often requires a specific, concrete next step—like a new piece of equipment or a marketing campaign. This grant is specifically designed to fund those pivotal moments.

• Official Grant Info: Apply Here
• Note: This program often runs in quarterly rounds. If you miss the February cutoff, keep this link bookmarked for the next cycle.

4. Small Business Heroes Program (Regional Hub)

If your business is based in Southern California or you operate as a micro-enterprise, this regional hub is an essential resource. It aggregates localized guidance and access points for the broader Small Business Heroes initiatives.

• Program Info: Regional Access

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Quick Link Summary

Need to move fast? Here is the “cheat sheet” of all the links mentioned above:

Grant / Program	Direct Link
Intuit Small Business Hero Program	Apply Here
QuickBooks Program Hub	View Details
Secretsos Grant (Info)	View Info
Secretsos Grant (F6S)	Apply on F6S
Start.Pivot.Grow. Grant	Apply Here
Small Business Heroes (SoCal Hub)	View Hub

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Your February Grant Strategy

Don’t let “analysis paralysis” stop you. Follow these three steps to make the most of this month:

1. The 60-Minute Audit: Block out one hour this week to click through these links and skim the eligibility requirements.
2. The “Top 3” Rule: Don’t try to apply for everything at once. Pick the 2 or 3 grants where your business clearly meets the criteria and focus on high-quality applications for those first.
3. Bookmark This Page: Several of these grants are recurring. Even if you aren’t ready to apply today, these links will be your best friend for the rest of 2026.

Need help navigating your funding options? While grants are great, they are just one piece of the puzzle. If you need a comprehensive strategy for loans or long-term capital, reach out to us today for a consultation!