Small Business Grants in North Dakota
North Dakota has one of the strongest state finances in the country thanks to oil revenues and a robust agricultural economy. This translates into active small business grant programs through the Department of Commerce and a low-cost business environment.
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North Dakota's Small Business Economy
North Dakota's key industries include oil and energy, agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. 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 North Dakota Businesses
These are nationwide programs with no state restrictions. North Dakota businesses qualify for all of them.
Jobber Grants for Home Service Businesses
Jobber
Annual $250,000 grant program exclusively for home service businesses — plumbing, HVAC, electrical, roofing, landscaping, painting, pest control, cleaning. Grand prize $100K, plus $50K, $25K×2, and $10K×5. Requires joining the free Jobber Home Service Community Forum before applying.
HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
HUD does not grant CDBG funds directly to businesses, nonprofits, or individuals — the direct grantee is always the city or county government. There is no application a business can submit to HUD; a business can only lobby its local government to fund a project. Verified against hud.gov 2026-07-14.
Accion Opportunity Fund Grants
Accion Opportunity Fund
Primarily a LOAN provider (term loans, SBA 7(a), equipment/truck financing) — actual grants are rare, sponsor-specific, time-limited side programs (e.g. a past $10K Black-owned-business grant, a past $5K restart grant), not a standing $25K general grant. Most current activity is loans, not grants.
USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)
USDA Rural Development
Grants covering up to 50% of project costs for HVAC upgrades, energy efficiency improvements, and renewable energy installations at rural small businesses. Strong fit for HVAC contractors upgrading client equipment or their own facility.
IFundWomen General Grant
IFundWomen
Ongoing grants and coaching for women-owned businesses. IFundWomen partners with major brands to fund women entrepreneurs across all industries.
Amber Grant for Women
WomensNet
Monthly $10,000 grants to women-owned businesses plus a $50,000 year-end grant. One of the most accessible women's business grants — $15 application fee, no minimum revenue, rolling monthly deadlines.
Cartier Women's Initiative Award
Cartier
International grant for women-led, for-profit businesses with positive social and/or environmental impact. Up to $100K for finalists.
Visa She's Next Grant Program
Visa
Grants and mentorship for women-owned small businesses, with a focus on Black women entrepreneurs and underserved communities.
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Get My Free North Dakota Grant ReportNorth DakotaState Programs & Resources
In addition to federal grants, North Dakota has state-specific programs worth exploring.
North Dakota Department of Commerce
Administers the Flex PACE loan program, North Dakota Development Fund, and various business development grants.
North Dakota SBDC
The North Dakota SBDC offers free consulting and grant research at centers across the state.
Bank of North Dakota (BND)
The nation's only state-owned bank, BND partners with local lenders to support small businesses through various loan and grant programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there grants specifically for North Dakota businesses?▼
Yes — North Dakota has state-specific programs including North Dakota Department of Commerce, North Dakota SBDC, Bank of North Dakota (BND). In addition to the federal grants above, our report includes guidance on finding and applying to North Dakota-specific programs.
Are there grants for Fargo or Bismarck small businesses?▼
Fargo has the Fargo-Moorhead Economic Development Corporation and Great Plains Software's legacy business community. Bismarck has the Bismarck-Mandan Development Association and state agency proximity grants.
Does North Dakota have grants for energy businesses?▼
North Dakota's oil and renewable energy sectors have strong federal DOE support, state energy incentives through the North Dakota Industrial Commission, and USDA REAP grants for rural energy businesses.
Are there North Dakota grants for agricultural businesses?▼
North Dakota is a top agricultural state with substantial USDA presence, the ND Department of Agriculture's programs, and the North Dakota Farmers Union provides agricultural business resources.
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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