If you’ve recently started your small business or are looking to grow it, your available finances play a major role in your ability to invest in your organization.
Both grants and loans can provide the funding necessary to fuel your landscape company’s progress to the next level. When deciding between grants and loans, consider your financial situation to avoid taking on unnecessary debt or receiving funds that cannot be used as needed due to grant requirements.
Also, consider how quickly you need these funds. Loans can typically be approved in days, while grants have far lengthier approval processes. However, applying early and often for grants can secure capital you don’t have to pay back later on.
Loan Options
Traditional lenders like banks are a good fit if you have been operating for more than two years, have good credit and at least $100,000 in annual revenue. If your business is younger or your credit score is below 680, online lenders are an option.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) also has a Lender Match tool that can connect you with lenders that fit your needs.
If you don’t need to borrow a lot of money, look for microloans. These tend to be less than $50,000 and are typically offered by nonprofits and government organizations like the SBA.
There are also a number of organizations that provide business loans based on various criteria. For instance, the Latino Economic Development Center offers loans from $1,000 to $250,000 with interest rates as low as 6.5% and no hidden fees to businesses in Puerto Rico and the Washington, D.C./Baltimore metropolitan region.
Meanwhile, the Accion Opportunity Fund grants small business loans ranging from $5,000 to $250,000, along with educational resources, coaching, and support networks in both English and Spanish.
Sources for Grants
There are numerous grants provided at the local, state and federal levels. The most comprehensive database is Grants.gov. The U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency offers both targeted grants and loans designed to aid minority-owned businesses throughout the year.
Nonprofits also offer assistance to small businesses. The Amber Grant Foundation focuses on supporting women entrepreneurs and awards a series of grants throughout the year, totaling $435,000. They have a $10,000 monthly grant winner as well as three $25,000 annual Amber grants.
Meanwhile, the Hiring Our Heroes’ Small Business Grant Program awards five businesses with a one-time grant of $10,000. Applicants must reside in the U.S., be a veteran or military spouse with three to 20 employees, not exceed $5 million in annual revenue and be located in an economically vulnerable community.
Galaxy Grants, which supports women and minority entrepreneurs with their small businesses, is running a $2,950 Galaxy Grant Giveaway with a 30-second entry process. The deadline to enter is September 30, 2025, and winners will be announced the following week.
Successfully Applying for Grants
Because the grant process can take much longer, it’s important to craft an application that can stand out from the crowd. Articulate a compelling need as to how you hope to utilize the funds if selected.
Carefully review the requirements before applying for certain business grants. Follow the guidelines closely so your efforts aren’t wasted.
Pay attention to the stipulations on how the funds may be used as well. Make sure you’re prepared to follow the accounting standards outlined, or you may end up having to pay back these funds.
Proofread your submission and if you aren’t selected this time, ask for feedback and try again as many grants are available on a yearly basis.
