Head to head
Small business grants vs SBA microloan
One never has to be repaid and is very hard to get. The other has to be repaid and is achievable. Most businesses researching grants would be served faster by the microloan.
| Small business grants | SBA microloan | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical amount | $500 to $250,000+ | Up to $50,000 |
| Cost | No repayment; substantial time cost | Typically 8%-13% |
| Time to funding | 1-9 months | 2-6 weeks |
| Term | n/a | Up to 7 years |
| Relative expense | No cost | $$ |
Cost bands are editorial judgements expressed in APR-equivalent terms so products quoting factor rates and discount fees can be compared with products quoting interest. They indicate relative expense, not quotes. Methodology.
Small business grants
Usually chosen when
- The business is research-intensive and fits SBIR or STTR, by far the largest genuine source of federal grant money
- There is an active local economic development programme, which is far less competitive than national ones
- You have time to invest in a competitive application
SBA microloan
Usually chosen when
- The need is operating capital, which almost no grant funds
- You need a decision in weeks rather than months
- The business does not fit a research or policy category
Common questions
- Are business grants taxable?
- Grant income is generally taxable to a business. Check with an accountant, since treatment varies by programme and entity type.
Other comparisons
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