Square Cornerstone Grant: $10K Business Grants for Small Business Owners in 2025

Grant Overview

Real Support for Local Businesses: $10K and Expert Guidance in Your Corner

Business grants just got a major upgrade. Square’s Cornerstone Grant program isn’t your typical funding opportunity that throws money at you and wishes you luck. They’re stepping up with a complete package designed to tackle the real challenges small businesses face today. We’re talking $10,000 in funding, plus a full year of mentorship from industry experts, and visibility across Square’s massive platforms. If you’ve been using Square for at least six months and running a small operation in the US, this could be your ticket to the next level. The application deadline’s September 30, 2025, so you’ve got time to prepare, but not enough to procrastinate. Business grants like this don’t come around every day.

This business grants initiative addresses a critical gap where Square approves 95% of loan applications compared to just 13% at traditional banks. Four winners will split $40,000 in direct funding, but the real value lies in what comes after: a year of expert mentorship from Forbes-recognized professionals, plus marketing exposure reaching over one million subscribers.

Donor: Square Financial Services, Inc. and Square Banking

Focus: small business funding, entrepreneur grants, financial mentorship, business growth, minority business support

Region: United States

Eligibility:
– Current Square seller with at least 6 months of ongoing transactions
– US-based business with fewer than 20 employees
– Must qualify as a small business under SBA guidance with annual revenue under $2M
– Applicants must be legal US residents
– Business must not be in bankruptcy or named as a defendant in an active lawsuit

Benefits:
– Financial Award: $10,000 grant to grow, upgrade, or launch new ideas
– Mentorship: One year of financial guidance from Keila Hill-Trawick (Top 200 Forbes CPA) and Aja Evans (Board-Certified Therapist & Author)
– Networking: Features in Square newsletters (reaching 1M+), social media, and The Bottom Line

Deadline: September 30, 2025

What makes the Cornerstone Grant stand out? Square’s recognition that money alone isn’t enough. They’re addressing the funding gap that’s left so many small business owners stranded. According to Square’s internal data, over half of their loans already go to sellers in regions with the lowest traditional approval rates. This grant program extends that commitment, specifically targeting those who’ve been overlooked by conventional funding sources. For-profit businesses often struggle to find such targeted support.

Let’s break down what you’re actually getting. Sure, the $10,000 is nothing to sneeze at—it can cover new equipment, inventory expansion, or even that marketing campaign you’ve been putting off. But the mentorship component? That’s where things get interesting. You’ll get direct access to Keila Hill-Trawick, a CPA who’s made Forbes’ Top 200 list, and Aja Evans, a board-certified therapist and author. These aren’t just random names Square pulled out of a hat—they’re professionals who understand both the financial and emotional challenges of running a small business. Similar high-value grants rarely offer this level of expert access.

The visibility aspect shouldn’t be underestimated either. Being featured in Square’s newsletters that reach over a million subscribers? That’s exposure most small businesses can only dream of. Add in social media features and a spot in The Bottom Line, and you’ve got a marketing boost that could potentially be worth more than the grant money itself. Other funding opportunities simply can’t match this reach.

Square’s been pretty clear about who they want to support. If you’re running a massive corporation with hundreds of employees, this isn’t for you. This is for the small shops, the local services, the neighborhood favorites that make communities unique. Specifically, they’re looking for businesses with fewer than 20 employees and annual revenue under $2 million. That’s a wide net that covers everything from solo entrepreneurs to small teams making their mark. Startup founders and established small businesses alike should take note.

The requirement that applicants must be current Square sellers with at least six months of transaction history makes sense. Square wants to support businesses that are already part of their ecosystem and have demonstrated some operational stability. It’s not just about who needs the money—it’s about who’s actively working to build something sustainable. Quarterly grant programs often have similar requirements to ensure applicants are serious.

Square’s kept the application process refreshingly straightforward. No jumping through endless hoops or submitting 50-page documents. You’ll need to submit your application by September 30, 2025, after which a panel will evaluate all submissions. Winners get announced in November via email and through a press release—so you’ll want to keep an eye on your inbox around that time. Competitive grant programs typically have similar timelines.

What’s the panel looking for? While Square hasn’t published explicit scoring criteria, based on their stated mission and previous grant programs, they’re likely evaluating businesses based on community impact, growth potential, and how well the additional support could help overcome specific challenges. This isn’t just about picking the “best” business on paper—it’s about identifying where this combination of funding and support can make the biggest difference. Targeted grant opportunities often prioritize these factors.

This isn’t Square’s first rodeo when it comes to supporting small businesses. They’ve previously run initiatives like the 21 Squared Grant Initiative and the 24 Squared grant program, which collectively awarded over $100,000 to community organizations and small businesses. What’s impressive is that 91% of sellers who take out a Square Loan report business growth—showing that their support programs actually work. Global grant opportunities rarely have such documented success rates.

Square’s approach has consistently focused on underserved communities and businesses that struggle to access traditional funding. Their data shows that 37% of loans through Square Capital go to minorities, significantly higher than the 26% from traditional lenders. This commitment to equitable funding isn’t just talk—it’s reflected in their programs and outcomes. Investor pitch events often aim for similar diversity goals but fall short.

Mark these dates in your calendar if you’re planning to apply:

– Application Deadline: September 30, 2025 at 8am
– Evaluation Period: October 2025
– Winners Announced: November 2025
– Mentorship Period: One year following announcement

Q: Can I apply if I just started using Square?
A: No, you need at least six months of ongoing transaction history with Square to be eligible.

Q: What types of businesses have the best chance of winning?
A: Square hasn’t specified preferred business types, but they emphasize community impact and businesses facing barriers to traditional funding.

Q: How will the $10,000 be distributed?
A: The grant will be deposited directly into your Square Checking account.

Q: Is the mentorship one-on-one or group-based?
A: The program provides one-on-one mentorship with both Keila Hill-Trawick and Aja Evans.

Q: Can non-profits apply for this grant?
A: The eligibility criteria specify for-profit businesses with fewer than 20 employees, so non-profits likely don’t qualify.

Q: Can I apply multiple years if I don’t win?
A: This is a pilot program – future iterations haven’t been confirmed.

Q: What happens to my Square account if I win?
A: No changes to standard processing terms, but enhanced support access likely.

The financial guidance component connects directly to Square’s banking services. Winners receive the grant through Square Checking accounts, creating a natural pathway to deeper financial services integration. That’s not coincidence – that’s strategic ecosystem building.

For comparison, traditional business grants like those offered through the Olga Loizon Memorial Foundation focus purely on funding without the integrated services approach. Square’s model suggests they view grant recipients as long-term strategic partners rather than one-time beneficiaries.

With only four winners selected, competition will be fierce. So how do you make your application rise to the top? First, be crystal clear about how the $10,000 will specifically help your business grow. Vague statements like “it will help me expand” won’t cut it. Instead, detail exactly what you’ll do with the funds—whether it’s purchasing specific equipment, launching a new product line, or expanding to a new location. Technology-focused grants often require similar specificity.

Second, emphasize your community impact. Square’s clearly interested in businesses that contribute to their local communities. How does your business create jobs, support other local businesses, or address community needs? Be specific about the ripple effects your business creates. Fellowship programs often look for this same community focus.

Finally, don’t shy away from discussing the challenges you’ve faced. This grant is specifically designed for businesses that face barriers to traditional funding. Be honest about those obstacles and how this combination of financial support and mentorship could help you overcome them. Accelerator programs appreciate this level of transparency.

Honestly, putting together a proposal this complex is a huge task. If you’re serious about this and want a second pair of expert eyes, that’s what we do at Grantaura. A little bit of help on the grant proposal can make all the difference. Just something to think about. CLICK HERE to get the GRANT PROPOSAL WRITING help.

Check Your Eligibility

18 More Business Grants

Finding the right business grants requires strategic searching across multiple funding sources. Square’s Cornerstone Grant represents just one option in a competitive landscape where timing and positioning matter more than luck.

1. Sephora Beauty Grant: $100K Business Grants for Black Females: The Sephora Beauty Grant offers a whopping $100,000 to one lucky Black woman entrepreneur in the beauty industry each year, addressing the significant funding gap in the beauty sector.
2. Idea Cafe Small Business Grant: Secure $1,000 in funding for your business venture through the Idea Cafe Small Business Grant, featuring a simple application process with no fees or business plan required.
3. $100K Poker Power Grant Money For Small Business 2025: This unique grant offers not just funding but a new approach to business thinking, specifically designed for minority and women entrepreneurs.
4. BizConnect Small Business Funding: $5K Grant + Mentorship: Get $5,000 in small business funding plus expert mentorship through BizConnect, specifically targeting businesses in distressed communities.
5. Secretsos™ Small Business Grants USA $2,500 Funding: Quarterly $2,500 business grants for underserved entrepreneurs in the USA, with no business plan required and complete spending flexibility.
6. Business & Enterprise Grants: Discover comprehensive grant opportunities for businesses of all sizes, from startups to established enterprises looking for growth funding.
7. Startups Grants: Discover specialized grant opportunities designed for startups at various stages of development, from idea to early growth.
8. Invest Angel Pipeline Angels Grants Min. $5K Per Startup: Pipeline Angels trains 500+ investors to fund underrepresented founders, with potential investments ranging from $25K-$50K.
9. $50K Grants for Technology – Giga Accelerator Programme: Startup grants for technology innovation, designed for tech startups at various stages of development.
10. Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2025: £35k equity-free scale-up funding with micro-grants up to £2k each, perfect for final regulatory tests or marketing initiatives.
11. 500 Global Flagship Accelerator Program: A prestigious four-month in-person accelerator program combining capital investment with intensive mentorship and networking opportunities.
12. Hey Helen Grant: $5,000 for Women-Owned Mission-Driven Businesses: Female entrepreneurs with proven impact can access this cash grant designed specifically for women founders who need capital to scale existing ventures. Unlike traditional corporate grants, this program offers quick decisions and flexible fund usage.
13. Galaxy Monthly Grant: $2,450 for Women and Minority Entrepreneurs: Monthly opportunity for minority and women-owned businesses featuring both cash awards and luxury prizes. This program runs continuously, providing multiple application chances throughout the year.
14. Beyond Open Charlotte Grant: Up to $150,000 for Diverse Entrepreneurs: Charlotte-based businesses can access substantially larger grants through this Wells Fargo-backed initiative. Awards range from $10,000 to $150,000 for qualifying diverse-owned businesses in designated opportunity corridors.
15. She’s Connected by AT&T: $50,000 Small Business Grant: National competition offering major funding plus extensive media exposure for U.S. entrepreneurs. Winners receive professional video features and marketing support alongside cash grants.
16. United States Grants: Complete listing of federal, state, and local grant opportunities available to U.S.-based businesses and organizations. Organized by geographic region and funding source for efficient searching.
17. Women-Owned Business Grants: Curated selection of funding opportunities targeting female entrepreneurs across all industries. Features both national programs and regional initiatives supporting women’s business development.
18. Minority-Owned Business Grants: Comprehensive resource for minority entrepreneurs seeking funding opportunities designed to address historical funding gaps and promote diverse business ownership.Finding the right business grants can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but Grantaura makes it simple. Our platform offers a comprehensive, free database of active grants specifically designed for small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re looking for funding to launch a new venture, expand an existing business, or support a specific project, we’ve got you covered with opportunities that match your unique needs and qualifications.

Terms

• Business Grants: Financial awards given to businesses that don’t need to be repaid, typically provided by governments, corporations, or foundations to support specific business activities or goals.
• Small Business Administration (SBA): A United States government agency that provides support to entrepreneurs and small businesses, including loan programs, counseling, and contracting assistance.
• Mentorship: A professional development relationship where an experienced person provides guidance, advice, and support to someone with less experience in their field or industry.
• Revenue: The total amount of income generated by a business before any expenses are deducted, often used as a measure of business size and performance.
• Eligibility Criteria: The specific requirements and conditions that applicants must meet to qualify for a grant or other funding opportunity.
• Grant Application: The formal process of requesting funding from a grant provider, typically involving submission of detailed information about the business, its needs, and how the funds will be used.
• Financial Guidance: Professional advice and direction on managing business finances, including budgeting, cash flow management, tax planning, and financial decision-making.
• Community Impact: The positive effects a business has on its local community, including job creation, economic development, and addressing community needs.
• Transaction History: A record of all financial transactions conducted through a business account, used to demonstrate business activity and financial stability.
• Panel Review: An evaluation process where a group of experts or stakeholders assesses grant applications and selects recipients based on predetermined criteria.
• Press Release: An official statement issued to media outlets to announce news or events, such as the selection of grant recipients.
• Newsletter Features: Inclusion in email newsletters distributed to subscribers, providing visibility and exposure to a targeted audience.
• Bankruptcy: A legal status of a person or entity that cannot repay debts to creditors, often disqualifying businesses from grant eligibility.
• Lawsuit Defendant: A business or individual being sued in a court of law, which may affect eligibility for certain grants and funding opportunities.
• Gross Annual Revenue: The total income a business generates in a year before deducting any expenses, used as a key metric for determining business size and grant eligibility.
• Financial Wellness: The state of being financially healthy and stable, including having adequate cash flow, manageable debt levels, and the ability to withstand financial challenges.
• Entrepreneur: An individual who organizes and operates a business, taking on greater than normal financial risks in order to do so.
• Small Business: A privately owned corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship that has fewer employees and less annual revenue than a corporation or regular-sized business.
• Funding Gap: The difference between the amount of capital a business needs and the amount it can access through traditional financing sources.
• Underserved Communities: Populations that lack access to financial services, business resources, and economic opportunities compared to the general population.
• Business Growth: The process of improving some measure of a business’s success, which can be measured in terms of increased revenue, expanded customer base, or market share.

Author

As someone who’s spent years watching passionate entrepreneurs struggle to find the funding they need to turn their dreams into reality, I’m particularly excited about the Square Cornerstone Grant. It’s not just another business grant throwing money at problems it’s a thoughtful approach to addressing the real barriers small business owners face every day. Having worked with over 300 clients at Grantaura, I’ve seen firsthand how the right combination of funding and guidance can transform a struggling business into a thriving community staple.

That’s why I founded Grantaura in 2021: to make quality grant funding accessible to the SMEs, individual entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and creatives who often get overlooked by traditional funding sources. The Cornerstone Grant embodies exactly the kind of opportunity I believe in substantial financial support paired with the expertise that makes that money actually work for the business. If you’re serious about growing your business but hitting wall after wall with funding, this might just be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.