Small Business Grants in Maryland
Maryland's proximity to Washington D.C. gives its small businesses unique access to federal contracting, government-adjacent industries, and a concentration of technology and cybersecurity businesses around the NSA corridor. The Maryland Department of Commerce and TEDCO are key state resources for small business funding.
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Maryland's Small Business Economy
Maryland's key industries include cybersecurity, biotechnology, defense contracting, healthcare, and seafood/agriculture. Grant programs are often tailored to these sectors, meaning businesses in these industries tend to qualify for more opportunities — and face less competition for state-specific awards than for purely federal programs.
Top Grants Available to Maryland Businesses
These are nationwide programs with no state restrictions. Maryland businesses qualify for all of them.
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
U.S. Small Business Administration
Federal funding for small businesses engaged in research and development with potential for commercialization. Phase I up to $275K, Phase II up to $1.75M.
Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)
U.S. Small Business Administration
Similar to SBIR but requires partnership with a university or research institution. Strong for commercializing academic research.
Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG)
USDA Rural Development
Grants for rural businesses and cooperatives to improve economic conditions. Targets businesses in rural areas (populations under 50,000).
EDA Build to Scale Program
Economic Development Administration
Supports organizations that accelerate the development of regional innovation economies by building a pipeline of scalable companies.
Minority Business Development Agency Grants
U.S. Department of Commerce - MBDA
Supports minority-owned businesses through business centers, capital access programs, and federal contracts.
SBA Community Navigator Pilot Program
U.S. Small Business Administration
Provides access to SBA resources and capital for underserved small businesses including minority, veteran, and women-owned businesses.
DOT Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
U.S. Department of Transportation
Certification program that provides access to federally funded transportation contracts. DBE certification opens doors to set-aside contracts.
IFundWomen General Grant
IFundWomen
Ongoing grants and coaching for women-owned businesses. IFundWomen partners with major brands to fund women entrepreneurs.
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In addition to federal grants, Maryland has state-specific programs worth exploring.
Maryland Department of Commerce
Administers Maryland's business incentive programs including the Maryland Small Business Development Fund and Advantage Maryland (formerly MEDAAF) for job-creating businesses.
TEDCO (Technology Development Corporation)
Maryland's technology commercialization and economic development agency funds technology startups and innovation-driven small businesses.
Maryland SBDC
With centers in Baltimore, Annapolis, and across the state, the Maryland SBDC provides free business consulting and grant application support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there grants specifically for Maryland businesses?▼
Yes — Maryland has state-specific programs including Maryland Department of Commerce, TEDCO (Technology Development Corporation), Maryland SBDC. In addition to the federal grants above, our report includes guidance on finding and applying to Maryland-specific programs.
Are there grants for Baltimore small businesses?▼
Baltimore has active grant programs through the Baltimore Development Corporation, the Neighborhood Business Works program, and various CDFI lenders targeting small businesses in Baltimore's neighborhoods.
Does Maryland have grants for cybersecurity or technology businesses?▼
Yes — TEDCO's Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund, SBIR federal grants, and the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (NCCoE) ecosystem all create grant opportunities for Maryland tech businesses, particularly around the I-270 and Route 1 corridors.
Are there Maryland grants for minority-owned businesses?▼
Maryland has the Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) program, the Maryland Capital Enterprises, and multiple CDFI programs targeting minority entrepreneurs. The state has one of the highest MBE certification rates in the country.
Do I have to pay back a grant?▼
No — grants are free money that does not need to be repaid. Unlike loans, grants are awarded outright for qualifying business activities. Some grants have reporting requirements (spending documentation) but no repayment obligation.
How long does it take to receive grant money?▼
It depends on the grant. After approval, most federal grants disburse within 30-90 days. State grants vary. Some private grants (like Hello Alice and Amber Grant) can move faster. Our report identifies the fastest grants to apply for.
What if I don't have any certifications?▼
Many top grants are open to all small businesses regardless of certifications. That said, certifications like WOSB, VOSB, or MBE can dramatically increase the number of grants you qualify for. Our report includes a certification roadmap if you qualify.
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