How to Apply for Fort Worth Business Grants

Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States, with a thriving small business ecosystem that spans tech startups, manufacturing, hospitality, and creative industries. As the city continues to expand, local government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and economic development partners have established a robust network of business grants designed to support entrepreneurs, minority-owned enterprises, and community-focused ventures. Unlike loans, business grants do not require repayment, making them one of the most valuable financial resources available to early-stage and established businesses alike.

Applying for Fort Worth business grants can be a transformative step for your company—providing capital to hire staff, purchase equipment, expand operations, or launch marketing initiatives. However, the application process is competitive and requires careful preparation, strategic alignment with funding priorities, and attention to detail. Many qualified applicants are turned away not because they lack merit, but because their submissions are incomplete, misaligned with grant criteria, or poorly articulated.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every stage of applying for Fort Worth business grants—from identifying eligible opportunities to submitting a compelling application. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner looking to scale, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge, tools, and real-world examples needed to succeed. By following the steps outlined here, you’ll significantly increase your chances of securing funding that can accelerate your business growth without adding debt.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Types of Business Grants Available in Fort Worth

Before you begin applying, it’s essential to recognize the different categories of business grants available in Fort Worth. These fall into three primary classifications: government-funded, nonprofit-supported, and industry-specific grants.

Government-funded grants are typically administered by the City of Fort Worth Economic Development Department, Tarrant County, or state agencies like the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office. These often target job creation, neighborhood revitalization, and support for underserved communities. Examples include the Fort Worth Small Business Grant Program and the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

Nonprofit-supported grants are offered by local chambers of commerce, community foundations, and business incubators. These may focus on women-owned businesses, veteran entrepreneurs, or minority-owned enterprises. The Fort Worth Black Chamber of Commerce, for instance, offers targeted grants to support Black-owned businesses in the city.

Industry-specific grants are often tied to sectors such as agriculture, technology, green energy, or healthcare. For example, the Fort Worth Innovation District offers grants to startups developing AI, robotics, or clean energy solutions. These grants are usually administered in partnership with universities like Texas Christian University (TCU) or the University of North Texas Health Science Center.

Understanding these distinctions allows you to target the most relevant opportunities and tailor your application accordingly.

Step 2: Determine Your Business Eligibility

Every grant has specific eligibility requirements. Failure to meet even one criterion can result in immediate disqualification. Common eligibility factors include:

• Business location: Your business must be physically located within Fort Worth city limits or Tarrant County, depending on the grant.
• Business structure: Most grants require your business to be registered as an LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship with a valid Texas business tax ID.
• Ownership demographics: Many grants prioritize women, veterans, LGBTQ+, or minority-owned businesses. Some require proof of ownership by a qualifying group.
• Revenue and employment size: Grants often cap eligibility for businesses with fewer than 50 employees or annual revenues under $2 million.
• Operational history: Some grants require businesses to have been operating for at least 6–12 months; others are designed for pre-revenue startups.

Review the official grant guidelines meticulously. If you’re unsure whether your business qualifies, contact the grant administrator directly—many agencies provide pre-application consultations. Do not assume eligibility based on general information found online; requirements change frequently.

Step 3: Identify Current Grant Opportunities

There is no single database that aggregates all Fort Worth business grants, so proactive research is essential. Start with these official sources:

• City of Fort Worth Economic Development Department: Visit fortworthtexas.gov/economic-development and navigate to the “Grants & Incentives” section. This is the primary hub for city-funded programs.
• Tarrant County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC): Offers regional grants and works with local partners to fund business expansion projects. Check their website for open RFPs (Requests for Proposals).
• Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce: Maintains a list of grant opportunities and hosts monthly business networking events where funding options are discussed.
• Texas.gov Grants Portal: The state’s official grants portal lists all publicly funded programs, including those accessible to Fort Worth businesses.
• Local nonprofit and foundation websites: Organizations like the United Way of Tarrant County, the Fort Worth Women’s Business Center, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce often administer grants with specific eligibility criteria.

Set up Google Alerts for keywords like “Fort Worth business grant,” “Tarrant County small business funding,” and “Texas minority business grant.” Subscribe to newsletters from the Fort Worth Chamber and Economic Development Department to receive real-time updates.

Step 4: Prepare Required Documentation

Grant applications demand a thorough and organized submission package. Commonly requested documents include:

• Business license and tax ID: A copy of your Texas Comptroller’s business registration and EIN from the IRS.
• Financial statements: Most grants require profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and bank statements for the last 12–24 months. Startups may submit projected financials with supporting assumptions.
• Business plan: A concise 5–10 page document outlining your mission, target market, competitive analysis, marketing strategy, and growth projections.
• Proof of ownership: Articles of incorporation, partnership agreements, or ownership affidavits that verify demographic qualifications (e.g., women-owned, veteran-owned).
• Resumes of key personnel: Highlight relevant experience, especially for leadership roles.
• Letters of support: From customers, suppliers, or community partners that validate your business’s impact.
• Use-of-funds statement: A detailed breakdown of how the grant money will be spent—equipment, payroll, marketing, etc. Be specific.

Organize these documents in a digital folder with clear labels. If submitting via an online portal, ensure all files are in PDF format and under the size limit (usually 5–10 MB per file).

Step 5: Write a Compelling Grant Application

The application narrative is where you distinguish yourself from other applicants. Avoid generic statements like “We want to grow our business.” Instead, focus on impact, alignment with grant goals, and measurable outcomes.

Structure your application using this framework:

1. Executive Summary (1 paragraph): State your business name, location, mission, and the amount requested. Include one sentence on the community or economic impact.
2. Problem Statement: What challenge are you addressing? Is it lack of access to capital in your neighborhood? High unemployment in your industry? A gap in local services?
3. Proposed Solution: How will the grant funds solve this problem? Be specific: “$25,000 will fund the purchase of three commercial-grade 3D printers to produce custom prosthetics for local veterans.”
4. Implementation Plan: Outline the timeline. Who will do what? When will deliverables be completed?
5. Expected Outcomes: Use metrics: “We will hire three full-time employees within six months,” or “We will serve 500 low-income families through subsidized meals by December.”
6. Sustainability Plan: How will your business continue after the grant ends? Show long-term viability.

Use clear, professional language. Avoid jargon. Proofread for grammar and spelling. If possible, have a trusted advisor or mentor review your draft before submission.

Step 6: Submit Your Application and Follow Up

Most Fort Worth grants are submitted through online portals. Ensure you submit before the deadline—late applications are rarely accepted. Some systems close automatically at midnight, so submit at least 24 hours in advance to avoid technical issues.

After submission, you should receive a confirmation email. If you don’t, contact the grant administrator immediately. Keep a record of your submission date, time, and confirmation number.

Follow up politely after two weeks if you haven’t received an acknowledgment. A brief, professional email asking for an update on the review timeline is appropriate. Do not call repeatedly or pressure staff. The review process can take 4–12 weeks depending on the volume of applications.

Step 7: Prepare for Possible Interviews or Site Visits

Some grants require finalists to participate in an interview or allow a site visit. This is not a formality—it’s a critical evaluation step. Be ready to:

• Explain your business model in 60 seconds.
• Describe how the grant will create jobs or serve the community.
• Answer questions about financial projections and risk mitigation.
• Show your workspace, equipment, or operations in person or via video call.

Practice your responses with a colleague. Dress professionally. Bring printed copies of your application and supporting documents. Be honest—if you don’t know an answer, say so and offer to follow up with information.

Step 8: Accept the Grant and Fulfill Reporting Requirements

If awarded, you’ll receive an award letter outlining terms and conditions. Read it carefully. You may be required to:

• Sign a grant agreement.
• Open a separate bank account for grant funds (required for some programs).
• Submit quarterly progress reports.
• Provide receipts for all expenditures.
• Participate in a public recognition event or media feature.

Failure to comply with reporting requirements can result in repayment of the grant. Keep meticulous records. Use accounting software like QuickBooks to track grant-related expenses separately. Schedule reminders for reporting deadlines.

Best Practices

Align Your Goals with the Grant’s Mission

Every grant has a purpose—whether it’s reducing poverty, promoting innovation, or supporting minority entrepreneurs. Your application must clearly demonstrate how your business advances that mission. Don’t try to force a mismatch. If you’re applying for a grant aimed at increasing green jobs, don’t focus on your retail sales numbers. Instead, explain how your solar panel installation business reduces carbon emissions and creates skilled labor opportunities in underserved neighborhoods.

Start Early and Build Relationships

Don’t wait until the deadline to begin. Many grants open for applications months in advance. Use the lead time to refine your business plan, gather documents, and connect with grant administrators. Attend workshops, networking events, and webinars hosted by the Economic Development Department. Building relationships increases your visibility and trustworthiness.

Be Specific and Quantifiable

Vague claims like “We will grow our business” carry no weight. Instead, say: “With $15,000 in grant funding, we will purchase a commercial-grade bakery oven, enabling us to increase daily production from 50 to 150 loaves, hire one additional baker, and expand distribution to three new farmers’ markets by Q3.” Specificity builds credibility.

Highlight Community Impact

Fort Worth grant programs prioritize projects that benefit the broader community. Emphasize job creation, support for local suppliers, youth internships, or partnerships with schools and nonprofits. If your business serves low-income residents, mentions of sliding-scale pricing, free services, or donations strengthen your case.

Use Professional Design and Formatting

Even if the application doesn’t require it, a clean, well-formatted document signals professionalism. Use consistent fonts (Arial or Times New Roman, 11–12 pt), clear headings, and bullet points for readability. Avoid cluttered layouts or excessive graphics. If submitting a business plan, include a cover page with your logo and contact information.

Apply for Multiple Grants

Don’t put all your hopes on one application. Apply to three to five grants that match your profile. Even if you don’t win all of them, the process sharpens your business planning skills and increases your chances of success. Some grants have overlapping eligibility, so you may qualify for more than one.

Document Everything

Keep a master folder (digital and physical) containing:

• All grant applications submitted
• Correspondence with grant administrators
• Receipts, invoices, and expense reports
• Progress reports and performance metrics

This documentation will help you reapply for future grants, secure loans, or attract investors.

Tools and Resources

Online Grant Databases

• Texas Grants Portal (tx.gov/grants): The official state database for all public grants in Texas, searchable by region and industry.
• Grants.gov: Though primarily federal, this site includes some programs open to Texas businesses.
• Foundation Directory Online (FDO): A paid resource available through public libraries (including Fort Worth Public Library) that lists private and corporate foundations offering business grants.

Business Planning Tools

• SCORE.org: Free mentorship and downloadable business plan templates tailored to small businesses.
• LivePlan: Subscription-based software that guides you through creating investor-ready business plans with financial forecasting.
• Canva: Use to create visually appealing one-page summaries or infographics to accompany your application.

Financial Tracking Tools

• QuickBooks Online: Ideal for tracking grant-related expenses and generating reports.
• Wave Accounting: Free accounting software for startups with limited budgets.
• Google Sheets: Create custom templates to log grant deadlines, required documents, and submission status.

Local Support Organizations

• Fort Worth Small Business Development Center (SBDC): Offers free one-on-one counseling, grant writing workshops, and access to funding databases. Located at Tarrant County College.
• Fort Worth Women’s Business Center: Provides specialized support for women-owned businesses, including grant application assistance.
• Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Tarrant County: Offers grants, training, and networking for Latino entrepreneurs.
• Fort Worth Black Chamber of Commerce: Hosts grant workshops and connects Black-owned businesses with funding sources.
• TCU Neeley School of Business – Entrepreneurship Center: Supports tech and innovation startups with grant coaching and pitch competitions.

Free Educational Resources

• YouTube Channels: Search for “Fort Worth business grant tutorial” or “how to write a grant proposal” for free video guides.
• Fort Worth Public Library: Offers free access to LinkedIn Learning, which includes courses on grant writing, financial planning, and small business management.
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Learning Center: Free webinars on funding, compliance, and business planning.

Real Examples

Example 1: GreenTech Solutions – Clean Energy Startup

GreenTech Solutions, a Fort Worth-based startup founded by two TCU engineering graduates, applied for the Fort Worth Innovation District Grant to develop affordable solar-powered charging stations for electric vehicles. Their application included:

• A detailed market analysis showing rising EV adoption in Fort Worth.
• Projected job creation: two full-time engineers and one technician.
• A $50,000 budget breakdown: $30,000 for equipment, $15,000 for installation, $5,000 for community outreach.
• Letters of support from the City’s Sustainability Office and a local electric cooperative.

They were awarded $45,000. Within six months, they installed five charging stations in underserved neighborhoods and partnered with the city to offer free charging during peak hours. Their success led to a follow-up grant from the Texas Clean Energy Initiative.

Example 2: Mama’s Kitchen – Minority-Owned Catering Business

Mama’s Kitchen, a home-based catering business owned by a single mother and veteran, applied for the Tarrant County Minority Business Grant to transition from home cooking to a licensed commercial kitchen. Their application emphasized:

• Her service to 200+ low-income families through subsidized meal programs.
• Her plan to hire two part-time employees from a local workforce development program.
• How the grant would allow her to meet health department requirements and expand her client base.

She received $12,000, which covered the cost of commercial-grade refrigeration, ventilation systems, and licensing fees. Within a year, her business grew from $80,000 to $250,000 in annual revenue and now employs five people.

Example 3: TechHive – Youth Tech Education Nonprofit

Though not a traditional business, TechHive—a nonprofit offering free coding classes to Fort Worth teens—applied for a community development grant to purchase 20 laptops and hire a part-time instructor. Their application tied directly to the city’s goal of reducing youth unemployment and increasing digital literacy.

They received $20,000 and partnered with the Fort Worth Independent School District to offer after-school programs. Their success inspired a similar grant program in Dallas.

Key Takeaways from These Examples

• Each applicant clearly connected their project to a city or county priority.
• They used data and specific numbers to prove impact.
• They demonstrated sustainability beyond the grant period.
• They leveraged partnerships to strengthen credibility.

FAQs

Can I apply for multiple Fort Worth business grants at the same time?

Yes. Many businesses successfully secure funding from multiple sources, as long as the grant terms allow it. Some grants prohibit “double-dipping”—meaning you cannot use funds from two grants to pay for the same expense. Always read the fine print and disclose other funding sources in your application.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to qualify for a Fort Worth business grant?

No. Many grants require only that your business be legally registered in Texas and operated within Fort Worth. Non-citizens with valid work authorization (e.g., E-2 visa, green card holders) are often eligible. Check individual grant guidelines for citizenship or residency requirements.

How long does it take to receive grant funds after approval?

Typically 4–12 weeks. Some grants disburse funds in installments tied to milestones. Others require you to submit receipts before reimbursement. Always clarify the payment timeline in your award letter.

What happens if I don’t spend all the grant money?

You must return unused funds. Grant administrators require strict accountability. If your project scope changes, notify the grantor immediately. They may approve a reallocation, but you cannot keep unspent money without written permission.

Are there grants for startups with no revenue?

Yes. Programs like the Fort Worth Innovation District Seed Grant and the Tarrant County Startup Accelerator offer funding to pre-revenue businesses. These often require a strong business plan, prototype, or proof of market demand.

Can I reapply if my application is denied?

Absolutely. Many successful grantees applied multiple times before winning. Request feedback from the grant administrator. Use it to improve your next application. Some programs even offer post-denial coaching.

Do I have to pay taxes on grant money?

In most cases, yes. Grant funds received for business purposes are generally considered taxable income by the IRS. Consult a CPA or tax advisor to understand your obligations. Some grants for nonprofit or charitable activities may be exempt.

Is there a limit to how much I can receive in grants per year?

Some programs cap annual funding per business at $50,000 or $100,000. Others have no cap but require justification for large requests. Always check the maximum award amount listed in the grant guidelines.

Conclusion

Applying for Fort Worth business grants is not a shortcut—it’s a strategic process that demands preparation, clarity, and authenticity. The funding available is substantial, but it’s awarded to those who can clearly articulate their vision, demonstrate community value, and execute with precision. By following the steps outlined in this guide—researching opportunities, aligning with grant goals, preparing strong documentation, and leveraging local resources—you position yourself not just to win a grant, but to build a resilient, impactful business.

Remember: every successful grant applicant started exactly where you are now—with an idea and the determination to make it real. The city of Fort Worth is investing in entrepreneurs like you. Your job is to show them why you’re worth the investment.

Start today. Review the City of Fort Worth Economic Development website. Identify one grant that fits your business. Gather your documents. Write your narrative. Submit your application. The next step in your business’s growth is just one application away.