For many Black entrepreneurs, securing funding remains one of the most significant challenges to growing their businesses, especially when it comes to marketing. Marketing budgets are often limited, and traditional financing options may be difficult to access due to systemic barriers. Grants offer an essential source of non-dilutive capital, funds that do not require giving up equity or incurring debt, and many are specifically designed to support Black-owned businesses.
In 2025, numerous grant programs will provide Black entrepreneurs with financial resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help fund marketing campaigns, brand development, and customer outreach. This article outlines the top grants every Black entrepreneur should know about to effectively fund their marketing efforts and accelerate business growth.
2. Why Grants Matter for Black Entrepreneurs’ Marketing Success
Marketing is a critical driver of business growth, yet many Black-owned businesses face disproportionate challenges accessing capital to invest in advertising, digital campaigns, and branding. Grants provide a unique opportunity to overcome these barriers by offering funds that can be used flexibly for marketing activities without financial risk.
Beyond funding, many grant programs also offer mentorship, business development workshops, and exposure to networks that can amplify marketing impact. These combined resources help Black entrepreneurs build brand awareness, engage new customers, and compete effectively in increasingly digital marketplaces.
3. Top Grants for Black Entrepreneurs to Fund Marketing in 2025
1 Million Black Businesses Initiative (1MBB)
A partnership between Shopify and Operation HOPE, the 1MBB initiative aims to support one million Black-owned businesses by 2030. It provides an eight-week business development program, mentorship from industry leaders, and assistance in securing capital. Marketing funds can be used for digital advertising, branding, and content creation. Since launching, 1MBB has helped nearly half a million Black entrepreneurs grow their businesses.
Wish Local Empowerment Program
This $2 million fund offers grants from $500 to $2,000 to Black-owned brick-and-mortar businesses with fewer than 20 employees and under $1 million in annual revenue. Recipients become Wish Local vendors, turning their stores into pickup points for online orders. The grant money supports marketing efforts to increase foot traffic and local brand awareness (Forbes, 2025).
HerRise MicroGrant
Targeted at women of color entrepreneurs, the HerRise MicroGrant awards $1,000 monthly to eligible businesses with under $1 million in revenue. The grant supports social media campaigns, website improvements, and promotional events. The application process is straightforward, making it accessible for Black women entrepreneurs seeking marketing support.
National Black Business Pitch (NBBP)
This competition awards three winners $10,000 each after submitting a video and pitching live to a virtual audience. Marketing funds from this grant can be used for advertising and brand building. Winners also gain access to corporate supply chains and networking opportunities, expanding their market reach.
Sephora Beauty Grant
Designed for Black-owned beauty businesses with at least $100,000 in annual revenue, this $100,000 grant supports marketing campaigns, product launches, and brand expansion. Sponsored by Sephora and the Fifteen Percent Pledge, it offers substantial funding to scale marketing efforts within the beauty industry.
Black Girl Ventures Pitch Program
Focused on Black women entrepreneurs, this pitch program combines crowdfunding with traditional pitching. Winners receive cash prizes and mentorship, which can be used to develop advertising campaigns and community outreach, helping grow authentic brands.
Lenovo Evolve Grant
This grant awards $25,000 to minority-owned businesses, including Black entrepreneurs, alongside mentorship and technical support. It encourages investment in AI and digital marketing tools to modernize operations and improve customer engagement.
Comcast RISE Investment Fund
Comcast RISE provides grants to small businesses owned by people of color for marketing consultations, media placements, and creative production services. This fund helps Black entrepreneurs amplify their marketing reach through professional support.
Amber Grant for Women
Awarding $10,000 monthly and an additional $25,000 annually, the Amber Grant encourages applications from women of color. Funds can be used for marketing campaigns, branding, and business development.
SoGal Black Founder Startup Grant
SoGal offers grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 to Black women founders, supporting early-stage marketing efforts that help bridge the gap from idea to sustainable business growth.
Rising Star Grants Program
The Rising Star Grants Program supports three outstanding Black women-owned businesses or entrepreneurs in Canada with financial support and community recognition .
The Fifteen Percent Pledge Achievement Award
This program, in which Fifteen Percent Pledge partners with Shop with Google, offers grant funding to three Black-owned businesses. The winner receives $200,000, the runner-up receives $35,000 and the third place finalist receives $15,000 (NerdWallet, 2025).
NAACP Powershift Entrepreneur Grant
All rising and established Black entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for the Powershift Entrepreneur Grant. Businesses selected will receive a $25,000 grant (NAACP, 2025).
4. Tips for Applying and Maximizing Grant Opportunities
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Prepare Documentation: Have financial statements, business plans, and marketing strategies ready before applying.
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Customize Applications: Tailor each application to highlight how marketing funds will drive growth and community impact.
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Leverage Mentorship: Use mentorship opportunities to refine marketing plans and expand networks ( Read more here rocketdevs.com).
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Combine Funding Sources: Pair grants with loans or crowdfunding to maximize marketing budgets ( Read more here rocketdevs.com).
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Stay Organized: Track deadlines and requirements carefully to improve success chances.
5. Conclusion
Grants offer Black entrepreneurs vital financial resources and support to overcome barriers and invest in marketing strategies that drive growth. The programs outlined here provide a range of options for funding marketing initiatives, mentorship, and networking in 2025.
