Nehemiah Davis Greatness Grant: $2,500 Quarterly Funding for First-Time Startup Founders + 90 Days of Mentorship

Grant Overview

Quarterly $2,500 Cash + Mentorship for U.S. Entrepreneurs Starting from Nothing – No Perfect Pitch Deck Required

The Greatness Grant is a funding opportunity designed specifically for beginning entrepreneurs who are ready to take the leap but need financial support to kickstart their journey. But here’s the thing nobody tells you. Most grants want you polished, buttoned-up, with financial projections that look like a Wall Street analyst put them together. At 19, Nehemiah began his entrepreneurial journey by selling water bottles on the streets of Philadelphia. This grant? It’s built by someone who gets where you’re coming from.

The Greatness Grant is a direct line to founders still in the “water-bottle” phase, those scribbling ideas on napkins, maxing out debit cards, and wondering how to turn passion into payroll. Here’s what sets this opportunity apart: you get Nehemiah’s personal mentorship, lifetime access to a founder community that actually shows up for each other, and a spotlight on his 400,000+ follower platform. The catch? You have to be willing to show up on a livestream to claim your win.

Think about it. Most greatness grant programs ask for business plans that look like doctoral dissertations. This one wants your story. Raw, real, and ready to make a dent in your corner of the world.

Title: Nehemiah Davis Greatness Grant

Donor: The Nehemiah Davis Foundation

Focus: startup funding, early-stage entrepreneurs, community impact, quarterly grant, mentorship, first-time founders, business acceleration, underrepresented entrepreneurs

Region: United States, District of Columbia

Eligibility:
– Must be 18 years or older
– Business can be just an idea or an operating startup (no revenue cap)
– Any industry welcome (tech, food, beauty, social enterprise, retail)
– Must reside and operate in the U.S. or D.C.
– Must be available for livestream announcement
– Previous winners cannot re-apply

Benefits:
– Financial Award: $2,500 unrestricted cash
– Mentorship: 90-day direct access to Nehemiah Davis
– Community Access: Lifetime membership in the Greatness Grant founder Slack community
– Marketing Exposure: Feature spotlight across Nehemiah’s 640k+ Instagram following
– Ongoing Support: Invitation to quarterly virtual mastermind sessions with fellow founders

Deadline: Ongoing (Quarterly cycles)

Nehemiah Davis was born and raised in Philadelphia. His father has been incarcerated since Nehemiah was two years old, and he was brought up by his mother and grandmother. The man behind this grant didn’t inherit a trust fund or get a loan from wealthy parents. Nine years ago, Davis caught the entrepreneurial itch at the ripe old age of 19. With the aid of his mother, Myra Grant, he was able to get and run a fruit truck that served West Philadelphia.

So when your application lands on their desk? They’re not looking for MBA-speak. They’re searching for that same hunger they had when they were hustling water bottles in Philly heat.

What Makes the Nehemiah Davis Greatness Grant Different

The Greatness Grant by Nehemiah Davis is your opportunity to unlock your potential and start your entrepreneurial journey with the support you need. “The Greatness Grant is my way of paying it forward. I believe in helping others take the first step toward greatness, just like others once helped me.”

Think about traditional grants for a second. They want three years of revenue history. Market validation. A team with fancy degrees.

The Greatness Grant? Applications will be judged based on the clarity of your business idea, your passion, and the potential impact of your business on your community. That’s a completely different ball game.

Q: Can I apply if my business is literally just an idea right now?
A: Yes, absolutely.

Q: What if I’ve never written a business plan?
A: Not required for this application.

Q: Do past failures disqualify me?
A: No. Sometimes failure is the best teacher.

Q: Do I need to show revenue or customers first?
A: No revenue requirements exist.

Q: What if I’ve been turned down by other grants?
A: This program judges heart over credentials.

Is This Grant Right for You?

Let’s be real – the Greatness Grant isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a huge cash infusion to scale an already successful business, this probably isn’t it. The $2,500 is meaningful but not life-changing for established companies. This grant is specifically designed for founders in that fragile early stage where a little bit of capital and a lot of guidance can make all the difference.

It’s perfect for you if:
– You have a clear business idea or early-stage operation
– You’re coachable and hungry to learn from someone who’s been there
– You understand that business success and community impact are connected
– You’re comfortable sharing your story and being authentic
– You have the bandwidth to fully engage in the mentorship program

It might not be the best fit if:
– You’re looking for passive income or quick returns
– You’re not open to feedback and coaching
– You prefer to keep your business journey private
– You don’t have time to participate in the community aspects

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. CLICK HERE to get the GRANT PROPOSAL WRITING help.

The Selection Criteria That Actually Matters

Let’s break down what they’re really scoring. This one wants heart. The foundation evaluates applications on three core pillars:

– Clarity of Vision (40%): Can you explain your business idea in a way your grandmother would understand? Skip the jargon. They want to know what problem you’re solving and for whom. One applicant won by describing their dog-grooming service as “Uber for muddy pups.” Simple. Clear. Memorable.

– Community Impact (35%): How does your success lift others? Maybe you’re hiring locally. Training teenagers. Supporting other small businesses. Stand Out: Highlight your vision, passion, and the impact your business will have on your community.

– Pure Determination (25%): They call it “fire-in-the-belly.” It’s that thing that makes you stay up till 3 AM perfecting your product when everyone else says you’re crazy.

Past Winners: Real Stories, Real Results

Here’s what previous greatness grant recipients actually did with their $2,500.

Remember Tay’s Vegan Cookies from Q1 2024? The founder was making cookies in her apartment kitchen, selling them at local farmers markets on weekends. The $2,500 went straight to renting commercial kitchen space. Six months later? Three grocery stores in Philadelphia carry her products. That’s not a miracle. That’s what happens when the right funding meets the right moment.

FlexFit Mobile Gym took their grant money and retrofitted a box truck. Sounds crazy? They’re booking $8,000 months now. The founder was a personal trainer tired of seeing clients skip workouts because they couldn’t get to the gym. So he brought the gym to them.

Read2Lead bought tablets. That’s it. Simple purchase. But those tablets created after-school reading labs that caught the city’s attention. Two months post-grant, they secured a $15,000 city contract. In 2010, Nehemiah established the Nehemiah Davis Foundation with a mission to serve the homeless and support underprivileged youth. The foundation organizes annual events such as back-to-school giveaways, Thanksgiving dinners, and Christmas toy drives. It also provides weekly meals for the homeless and offers free youth programs, including writing workshops and guitar lessons.

Notice the pattern? None of these winners had elaborate five-year projections. They had immediate, specific needs and clear plans for that $2,500.

The Hidden Benefits Nobody Talks About

Sure, the $2,500 cash is nice. But past winners say the real value comes after.

Winners don’t just walk away with cash; they step into Nehemiah’s circle—monthly group strategy calls, private Slack channel, and a front-row seat when he opens his Rolodex. One winner described it like this: “The money helped me start. The mentorship helped me scale.”

640K Followers, 7,810 Following, 13K Posts – Nehemiah Davis | Digital Marketer (@neodaviso) on Instagram When you win, you’re not just getting a check. You’re getting visibility to an audience that’s already interested in entrepreneurship and success stories. Several winners reported getting their first customers directly from the announcement post.

How to Craft Your Greatness Grant Application

Forget everything you know about grant applications. This isn’t about impressing a committee with your vocabulary.

Start with your story. Not your resume. Your actual story. What brought you here? Maybe you got laid off and discovered your side project was your real calling. Perhaps you’re a parent who invented something because you couldn’t find what your kid needed in stores. Submit Your Application: Share your story, your business idea, and how this grant will help you achieve your goals.

Q: Should I hire someone to write my application?
A: Write it yourself. Authenticity beats polish here.

Q: How long should my application be?
A: Focus on clarity over length. 150-250 words is plenty.

Q: What if English isn’t my first language?
A: They care about your idea, not perfect grammar.

Q: Should I mention other grants I’ve applied for?
A: Only if they add context to your story.

Q: Can partners apply together?
A: One application per business, regardless of founders.

Q: What happens if I don’t win this quarter?
A: Reapply next quarter with an updated story.

Next, nail down the specifics. What exactly would you do with $2,500? “Grow my business” is vague. “Buy a heat press to print 50 shirts per day” is specific. “Invest in marketing” is weak. “Run Facebook ads targeting Philadelphia moms for my meal prep service” is strong.

The community angle matters more than you think. I don’t think I’ve ever met a young person more focused on community uplift than Nehemiah Davis. Davis holds at least a half-dozen neighborhood events annually through his nonprofit, the Nehemiah Davis Foundation. He recently served Thanksgiving dinners to 300 people in West Philadelphia and Overbrook during his Food From Heaven Thanksgiving Feast. Your business doesn’t need to be a nonprofit. But show how your success creates ripples. Hiring your nephew. Buying supplies from local vendors. Teaching other entrepreneurs what you learn.

The Application Timeline and What to Expect

Applications run on quarterly cycles. But here’s the insider tip: apply early in the quarter, not last minute.

Why? Because Winners will be notified via email and announced publicly on a virtual livestream on the dates mentioned above. You MUST be present on the livestream to claim your grant if you are chosen. If you’re selected, you need to be ready for that livestream. No-shows forfeit their award. It’s happened before.

The review process is surprisingly fast. Unlike government grants that take months, Greatness Grant typically reviews within 2-3 weeks after the quarterly deadline.

Once you submit, here’s what happens:
1. Initial review for completeness
2. Evaluation based on the three criteria (clarity, impact, determination)
3. Final selection by Nehemiah himself
4. Email notification if selected
5. Livestream announcement and grant distribution

Common Application Mistakes That Kill Your Chances

Let’s talk about what not to do. Because sometimes knowing what fails is as valuable as knowing what succeeds.

The Copy-Paste Disaster: Using the same generic application you wrote for other grants. They can tell. Your application should feel like you wrote it specifically for the Greatness Grant, because you should have.

The Sob Story Trap: Yes, share your challenges. But don’t make your whole application about problems. Despite facing challenges, including being expelled from school multiple times, Nehemiah developed a strong entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. Focus on solutions, determination, and forward momentum.

The Vague Vision: “I want to help people” isn’t a business plan. Who specifically? How? When? Where? The more concrete your vision, the stronger your application. If you’re opening a bakery, don’t just say “bakery.” Say “gluten-free bakery for the three schools in my district with rising celiac diagnoses.”

Missing the Livestream: This one’s brutal but true. Stay Tuned: Winners will be notified and announced on September 19th via livestream. Several applicants have been selected but lost their grant because they didn’t show up for the announcement. Mark your calendar. Set three alarms. This is non-negotiable.

Beyond the Money: Understanding the Greatness Grant Ecosystem

Over time, he expanded his ventures, founding several businesses, including Neo Daviso Enterprises. What you’re really getting access to is an ecosystem built by someone who understands the entrepreneurial journey from the ground up.

The Slack community alone has become a powerhouse resource. Past winners share supplier contacts, troubleshoot problems together, even become each other’s first customers. One winner described finding their manufacturer through a Slack connection, saving them three months of research.

Monthly strategy calls aren’t just motivational speeches. Nehemiah “Neo” Davis, has been able to do what few people have been able to do : build a multi-million dollar enterprise through the power of Digital Sales, Internet Marketing, and helping others unlock their greatness. The Internet has no shortage of opportunities and those who are able to take action will reap extremely lucrative rewards! In this episode Neo will give us the game on what it takes to become a digital marketing millionaire. These are working sessions where real problems get solved.

Q: What topics do the strategy calls cover?
A: Everything from pricing strategy to hiring your first employee.

Q: Can I still access resources if I don’t win?
A: Apply again next quarter. Many winners applied multiple times.

Q: Is the mentorship really hands-on?
A: Winners report getting direct feedback on everything from logos to lease negotiations.

Strategic Timing: When to Apply for Maximum Impact

Not all application timing is equal. Based on patterns from past winners, here’s what works.

Q1 applications (January-March) often come from New Year resolution energy. Competition can be higher, but so is the quality of applications. If you’re applying in Q1, make sure your idea stands out.

Q2 (April-June) sees fewer applications typically. Tax season distracts people. If you’re ready, this might be your sweet spot for less competition.

Q3 (July-September) brings summer hustlers. Many successful applications come from people who used summer to validate their ideas at farmers markets, festivals, or pop-ups.

Q4 (October-December) is interesting. Holiday businesses do well here, but so do services targeting the new year. One Q4 winner was a professional organizer who used the grant to prepare for January’s decluttering rush.

Making Your $2,500 Greatness Grant Work Harder

Smart winners leverage their grant for more than face value. Here’s how they do it.

The Matching Game: Some winners have used their greatness grant award as proof of concept to unlock other funding. “We were selected for the Nehemiah Davis Greatness Grant” carries weight with other funders. It shows you’ve been vetted.

The PR Angle: Local media loves underdog entrepreneur stories. Several winners got free publicity by sharing their grant win with community newspapers and local morning shows.

The Supplier Negotiator: One clever winner used their grant award letter to negotiate payment terms with suppliers. “I have guaranteed funding coming” opened doors that “I’ll pay you when I can” never would.

The Unspoken Truth About the Greatness Grant

Here’s something the official materials don’t emphasize enough. The circle of greatness is a community that connects people that can help support one another. It’s great when one person creates connections, but it’s even greater when it’s an entire community creating connections. Keeping resources in the circle and having people smarter and sharper than you in your circle is the key to success.

This isn’t just about the money. It’s about believing someone sees potential in your crazy idea when everyone else thinks you should just get a “real job.”

Finding inspiration to go out on his own after “being constantly fired from jobs,” Davis decided that enough was enough and started his own companies. As a man with strong character and conviction, Davis only wants to do more. “The impact that I’ve had thus far is great, but I’m looking to expand and touch more people,” he says.

For many winners, that validation was worth more than the cash. It’s the moment someone successful says, “Yes, your idea has merit. Yes, you can do this.”

Interested in strengthening your overall funding strategy? Consider exploring Maine Technology Institute’s seed funding program if you’re developing innovative products, especially in tech sectors.

Your Application Checklist: The Non-Negotiable Elements

Before you hit submit, make sure you’ve covered these bases.

Your Story Arc: Does your application have a beginning (where you started), middle (where you are), and end (where you’re going)? If it reads like a resume, start over.

The Specificity Test: Could someone else copy your exact plan with your description? If yes, you’re specific enough. If no, add details.

The Grandmother Test: Would your grandmother understand your business after reading your application? Complex businesses can be explained simply. If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.

The Impact Statement: Can you point to specific people who benefit from your success? Names aren’t necessary, but “the 47 families in my apartment complex who work night shifts and need affordable meal prep” beats “busy people.”

The Money Map: Do you know exactly where every dollar of the $2,500 goes? Not roughly. Exactly. This shows you’re ready to execute, not just dream.

Q: Should I include financial projections?
A: Only if they’re simple and realistic.

Q: Can I apply if I already have some revenue?
A: Yes, there’s no revenue cap for eligibility.

Q: What if my business model changes after applying?
A: Focus on your current plan. Pivot later if needed.

The Network Effect: Why Greatness Grant Alumni Succeed

Nehemiah Davis is an award-winning author, entrepreneur, and philanthropist born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At just 30 years of age, his accomplishments to-date exemplify the defiance of all the odds stacked against him from birth.

Winners don’t just get money and disappear. They become part of something bigger. The alumni network has spawned collaborations you wouldn’t expect. A caterer connected with an event planner. A graphic designer found three clients. A clothing brand partnered with a photographer for their lookbook.

This network effect multiplies the value of your grant. You’re not just getting $2,500. You’re getting access to dozens of other entrepreneurs who’ve been where you are.

Preparing for Post-Grant Success

Winning is just the beginning. Here’s how past winners maximized their opportunity.

Week 1-2: Use the announcement momentum. Update your website, social media bios, and email signatures. “Greatness Grant Recipient” has weight. Use it.

Week 3-4: Execute your plan immediately. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. The grant announcement creates energy. Ride that wave.

Month 2: Engage with the Slack community daily. Ask questions. Share wins and losses. The more you put in, the more you get out.

Month 3: Document everything. Your before and after story becomes powerful for future fundraising, media coverage, and inspiring other entrepreneurs.

Alternative Funding While You Wait

The Greatness Grant accepts applications quarterly, but that doesn’t mean you should wait to pursue funding. Successful entrepreneurs typically apply to multiple opportunities.

Looking for monthly opportunities? Check out the Idea Cafe Small Business Grant specifically designed for women entrepreneurs. No complex business plan required there either.

If your business has environmental impact, Patagonia’s Environmental Grants Program offers $5,000-$20,000 for grassroots initiatives. Different focus, similar community-minded approach.

The Real Cost of Not Applying

Every quarter you wait is a quarter someone else gets funded. But more importantly, it’s another quarter you spend wondering “what if?”

The application takes less than an hour. The potential return? Not just $2,500, but access to mentorship from someone who built multiple successful businesses, a community of driven founders, and validation that your idea has merit.

Established by Nehemiah Davis, the Greatness Grant is a grant provided to early-stage entrepreneurs to support them in moving their business forward. View opportunities sponsored by Greatness Grant · Are you an aspiring or new entrepreneur with big ideas but lacking the funding to bring them to life? The Greatness Grant by Nehemiah Davis is here to help you turn your vision into reality. Are you an aspiring or new entrepreneur with big ideas but lacking the funding to bring them to life? The Greatness Grant by Nehemiah Davis is here to help you turn your vision into reality.

Making the Decision: Is the Greatness Grant Right for You?

Not everyone should apply for this grant. Let’s be real about who thrives here.

You’re perfect for this if:
– Your business idea keeps you up at night (in a good way)
– You’ve already taken some action, even small steps
– You can articulate how your success helps others
– You’re ready to be public about your journey
– You want mentorship as much as money

Maybe wait if:
– You’re looking for passive investment
– Your idea needs way more than $2,500 to test
– You can’t commit to the livestream announcement
– You’re not ready to engage with a community
– You see this as just free money with no strings

The Psychology Behind Successful Greatness Grant Applications

After analyzing successful applications, patterns emerge. Winners think differently about their businesses.

They don’t position themselves as charity cases needing help. They present themselves as investments ready to generate returns – not just financial returns, but community returns, innovation returns, inspiration returns.

My main goal is to inspire and empower other people to find their God-given talents and live their life to the fullest.” It is with that that we salute Nehemiah Davis as a BE Modern Man and acknowledge his successes in defying the stereotypes labeled upon the men in our community. Through his resiliency, fortitude, and sheer will to be a voice for the people, Davis shares with us his definition of what it means to be a BE Modern Man, saying, “To be a BE Modern Man means to be a strong, independent, go-getter that is willing to succeed by any means.

They understand that Nehemiah isn’t running a charity. He’s investing in future success stories. Your application should read less like a request and more like an opportunity you’re presenting.

Q: What tone should my application have?
A: Confident but humble. Determined but teachable.

Q: Should I mention other funding I’m seeking?
A: Yes, it shows you’re serious and not putting all eggs in one basket.

Q: Can I reapply if I’m rejected?
A: Absolutely. Many winners applied multiple times.

The Technical Side: Optimizing Your Online Presence Pre-Application

Before you apply, Google yourself. What shows up? The greatness grant team will likely do the same search.

Clean up your social media. You don’t need to be perfect, but your online presence should align with your application. If you’re pitching a professional service but your Instagram is all party pics, there’s a disconnect.

Start documenting your journey now. Even simple LinkedIn posts about your business progress show you’re serious. Create a basic website or landing page. It doesn’t need to be fancy. But having GreatnessBakery.com looks more committed than just talking about your bakery idea.

What Happens After the Greatness Grant

Success with the Greatness Grant often leads to bigger opportunities. Alumni have gone on to:
– Raise seed funding from angel investors
– Get featured in major media outlets
– Launch successful crowdfunding campaigns
– Secure larger grants and contracts
– Build sustainable, profitable businesses

But perhaps most importantly, they’ve proven to themselves that their ideas have value. That confidence is worth more than any check.

The Greatness Grant in Context: Understanding the Bigger Picture

Entrepreneurship continues to surge: the United States is averaging 430,000 new business applications per month in 2024, 50 percent more than in 2019. The subset of applications for businesses most likely to hire employees has also risen to 140,000 per month, 30 percent more than in 2019. You’re not alone in wanting to start something. But resources like the Greatness Grant make the journey less lonely and more achievable.

Entrepreneurs are also growing more diverse: forty-three percent of self-employed Americans are female, more than ever before. Black, Asian, and Hispanic shares of self-employed Americans are also near all-time highs. Opportunity in this expansion is applying more broadly than before. The Greatness Grant reflects this shift, actively seeking diverse founders with fresh perspectives.

Your Next Steps: From Reader to Recipient

Reading about the grant is step one. Here’s your action plan:

Today: Start drafting your story. Don’t worry about perfection. Just get your thoughts on paper.

This Week: Calculate exactly what you’d do with $2,500. Research specific costs. Get real quotes if possible.

Next Week: Have someone who doesn’t know your business read your application. If they get confused, clarify.

Before Deadline: Submit early. Technical issues happen. Don’t let a website crash cost you this opportunity.

After Submission: Keep building. Don’t wait for results. The best applicants are the ones making progress regardless.

A Final Word from Past Winners

The Greatness Grant isn’t just about finding the next unicorn startup. The future belongs to those who dare to dream big and take bold steps. The future belongs to those who dare to dream big and take bold steps. It’s about finding people with the determination to turn $2,500 into something meaningful.

– Tay’s Vegan Cookies (Q1 2024) used the funds to rent a kitchen and expanded to local grocers.
– FlexFit Mobile Gym retrofit a vehicle and achieved \$8k/month revenue within months.
– Read2Lead purchased tablets for after-school reading labs and won a \$15,000 city contract soon after.

The winners typically used the grant for tactical, high-impact steps such as equipment, contracting, or operational scaling.

“The money was great, but the belief in my idea was priceless.” That’s from a 2023 winner who’s now running a six-figure business.

Another shared: “I almost didn’t apply because I thought I wasn’t ready. Thank God I ignored that voice.”

Stop doing a million things a few times and getting upset about the results. Focus on this one application. Do it right. Give it your all.

Looking to strengthen your application with professional guidance? Our team at Grantaura has helped over 300 entrepreneurs secure funding. We know what makes applications stand out because we’ve seen what works. Whether you need help crafting your narrative, developing financial projections, or simply want a second pair of expert eyes on your submission, we’re here to help. Click here to get grant proposal writing help that could make the difference between a good application and a winning one.

Why Nehemiah Created This Program

Nehemiah’s father has been in prison since Nehemiah was young, and he was raised by his mother and grandmother. Despite the odds stacked against him, he started his first business at age 21 and began giving back almost immediately.

The greatness grant represents his belief that traditional funding systems miss the entrepreneurs who need support most. Banks want established credit. Investors want proven traction. Government programs want endless paperwork.

This program cuts through all that noise. It finds people with fire in their belly and gives them oxygen to grow the flame.

For entrepreneurs exploring multiple funding streams, consider the amika Rooted In Growth Startup Grant which provides $50,000 for underrepresented hair brand founders, though with more specific industry requirements.

Check Your Eligibility

Think you might qualify for the Greatness Grant? Our quick eligibility tool walks you through the key requirements in under two minutes. Answer a few simple questions about your business status, location, and availability, and instantly know if you’re ready to apply. The tool also provides personalized tips based on your responses to strengthen your application.

26 More Grant Opportunities for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

The entrepreneurial funding landscape extends far beyond the Greatness Grant. Smart founders cast a wide net, applying to multiple opportunities that align with their business stage and vision. Here are carefully selected grants and resources that share the Greatness Grant’s spirit of supporting early-stage entrepreneurs with more than just money.

1. Emergent Ventures Grant: High-Impact Fellowship for Moonshot Ideas: Tyler Cowen’s radical funding program for ideas that could change how the world works. No bureaucracy, no committees, just bold support for transformative projects. Perfect for Greatness Grant applicants with bigger ambitions who need more substantial funding.
2. ZenBusiness Grant Program: $5,000 Quarterly Funding for Community-Impact Businesses: Another quarterly program providing larger awards with similar community-focused criteria. ZenBusiness requires you use their formation services but offers substantial ongoing business support beyond the initial grant award.
3. Caltech Rocket Fund CleanTech Grants: Up to $1M for Environmental Innovation: For entrepreneurs building climate solutions, this program offers significantly larger awards with technical mentorship from leading research institutions and industry experts.
4. MassCEC CriticalMass Program: $1M for Climatetech Startups: Massachusetts-based program for cleantech entrepreneurs past the pilot phase. Offers substantial funding plus connections to commercial deployment partners.
5. Credibly Small Business Award: A U.S. small business grant with higher award amounts.
6. McKinsey Fast Grants: $10K Plus Expert Consulting for Chicago Entrepreneurs: Four times the Greatness Grant amount plus six months of McKinsey consulting expertise. If you’re in Chicago and ready to scale beyond the startup phase, this combines funding with world-class business strategy support.
7. BILL & Entreprenista $2,500 Ecommerce Grant: Great option if your business is e-commerce.
8. Modest Needs Self-Sufficiency Grants: Emergency Support for Working Americans: Sometimes entrepreneurs need personal financial stability before launching their business. This program helps working individuals overcome temporary financial obstacles that could derail their entrepreneurial dreams.
9. Sky’s the Limit Business Grant: $2500 Monthly Funding: Monthly $2500 business grants for underrepresented entrepreneurs in US, Canada & UK. Apply now for funding + mentorship! Perfect for early-stage founders seeking consistent support.
10. BizConnect Small Business Funding: $5K Grant + Mentorship: Get $5,000 in small business funding plus expert mentorship through BizConnect. Ideal for entrepreneurs in distressed communities looking to scale their impact.
11. DC Clean Team Grant: If your business has impact in environmental or community services.
12. Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant: $5K Women’s Business Grants: $5,000 grants for women-owned businesses plus mentorship and community access. Designed specifically for female entrepreneurs ready to scale their ventures.
13. StitchCrew VESTing Women Program: 12 Months Free Mentorship: Ultimate grants for female entrepreneurs featuring 12 months of free mentorship worth $50K. Year-round coaching and support for women founders.
14. Square Cornerstone Grant: $10K Business Grants: $10,000 grants plus mentorship for small businesses using Square. Excellent opportunity for retail and service-based businesses seeking growth capital.
15. Start.Pivot.Grow. Micro Grant: $2,500 Non-Dilutive Funding: $2,500 grant funding plus business growth resources and exposure. Great for entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey.
16. Black Business Support Fund Grant: $2,500 + Resources: $2,500 grant plus free internet for one year and business consultation. Specifically designed to support Black entrepreneurs and business owners.
17. WBDC Launch Pad Grant: $2,500 for Connecticut Women: $2,500 grant award plus business education through WBDC courses. Targeted at women entrepreneurs in Connecticut seeking to launch or grow their businesses.
18. Home For Dreams: $25K Black Business Grants: $25,000 in Black business grants plus 6 months mentorship. Significant funding opportunity for Black entrepreneurs with established businesses ready to scale.
19. Stan’s $120K Dare To Dream Challenge: Win $120,000 to pursue your business dreams with full living expenses plus mentorship. One of the larger grant opportunities available for ambitious entrepreneurs.
20. For-Profit Business Grants: Beyond Traditional Nonprofit Funding: Discover grants that understand for-profit businesses can create social impact too. These opportunities recognize that sustainable businesses often deliver the most lasting community benefits.
21. Startup Grants Category: Complete Database of Early-Stage Funding: Access our comprehensive collection of grants specifically designed for startups and early-stage ventures. From tech innovation to social enterprises, find opportunities that match your industry and growth stage.
22. Women Entrepreneur Grants: Specialized Funding for Female Founders: Female entrepreneurs face unique challenges and opportunities. This collection features grants specifically designed to support women-led businesses at every stage of development.
23. Washington D.C. Area Grants: Capital Region Funding Opportunities: D.C. residents have access to both federal district and regional programs. Many offer similar community-focused criteria as the Greatness Grant but with local economic development priorities.
24. Patagonia International Grants: Environmental Impact Funding: If your business idea includes environmental sustainability, Patagonia’s program offers $5,000-$20,000. They share the Greatness Grant’s preference for grassroots initiatives over polished corporate proposals.
25. Minority Entrepreneur Grants: Diversity-Focused Business Funding: Underrepresented founders often face additional barriers to capital. These programs, like the Greatness Grant, recognize the value of diverse perspectives in entrepreneurship.
26. Grantaura Main Portal: Your Complete Grant Discovery Platform: Access our full database of over 250 active grant opportunities. Use our advanced search filters to find grants matching your specific eligibility criteria, funding needs, and business stage.

The greatness grant represents just one path to funding your entrepreneurial vision. Use Grantaura’s free platform to discover opportunities updated daily, track deadlines, and access application resources that give you a competitive edge. Remember, every funded entrepreneur started with a single application. Your greatness grant journey could be the first step toward building something extraordinary.

Terms

• Greatness Grant: The Nehemiah Davis Foundation’s quarterly funding program providing $2,500 cash plus mentorship to early-stage entrepreneurs. This grant focuses on founders with compelling stories and community impact potential.
• Quarterly Grant Cycle: The Greatness Grant operates on a three-month rotation, with new winners selected four times annually. Each cycle represents a fresh opportunity for first-time applicants while maintaining consistent evaluation criteria across all quarters.
• Livestream Requirement: Winners must attend the virtual announcement ceremony where grants are publicly awarded. Missing this mandatory event forfeits your award – it’s both a celebration and accountability measure ensuring recipients are committed to their journey.
• Unrestricted Funding: Unlike many grants with strict spending requirements, the $2,500 can be used for any legitimate business purpose. Whether it’s inventory, equipment, marketing, or operational costs, recipients have full discretion over fund allocation.
• Community Impact Score: A weighted evaluation metric measuring how your business creates positive ripple effects. This includes job creation, neighborhood improvement, solving local problems, or inspiring other entrepreneurs in underserved communities.
• First-Time Founders: Entrepreneurs who haven’t previously built or scaled a successful business. The Greatness Grant specifically targets those taking their first serious leap into entrepreneurship, regardless of age or background.
• Mentorship Program: The 90-day guidance period where winners receive direct access to Nehemiah Davis. This includes strategic advice, introduction to key contacts, and real-world insights from someone who’s built multiple successful ventures.
• Slack Community Access: A private digital workspace where Greatness Grant recipients connect, collaborate, and support each other. Think of it as your virtual co-working space with entrepreneurs who understand your journey.
• Revenue Cap Exemption: No maximum revenue limit for applicants, unusual for early-stage grants. Whether you’re pre-revenue or already generating sales, eligibility depends on your story and potential impact, not current income.
• Geographic Eligibility: Open to all U.S. residents including District of Columbia. Your business must operate within these borders, but can serve customers globally. Remote and online businesses fully qualify.
• Industry Agnostic: The Greatness Grant doesn’t favor specific sectors. Tech startups compete equally with food trucks, consultancies with craft businesses. Selection focuses on founder determination and community value over industry trends.
• Application Narrative: Your personal story explaining why you’re starting this business and how funding accelerates your vision. This isn’t a traditional business plan but rather an authentic expression of your entrepreneurial drive.
• Bootstrapping: Building a business with minimal external funding, often using personal savings or revenue. Many Greatness Grant winners are bootstrappers seeking that crucial early capital injection to reach the next level.
• Proof of Concept: Demonstrating your business idea works in practice, not just theory. For the Greatness Grant, this could be as simple as making your first sale or getting customer interest confirmation.
• Pivoting Potential: The ability to adjust your business model based on market feedback. The Greatness Grant values founders who can adapt and evolve rather than those rigidly attached to one approach.
• Social Media Leverage: Using Nehemiah’s 640k+ Instagram following for business visibility. Winners gain exposure to an engaged audience already interested in entrepreneurship, often resulting in immediate customer acquisition.
• Rolling Applications: Continuous acceptance of submissions throughout each quarter until the deadline. Unlike grants with narrow submission windows, you can apply when your application is strongest, not when the calendar dictates.
• Virtual Mastermind Sessions: Quarterly online gatherings where grant recipients share challenges, wins, and strategies. These sessions create peer accountability and collective problem-solving beyond individual mentorship.
• Fire-in-the-Belly Factor: The intangible determination evaluators seek in applications. It’s that special quality showing you’ll persist through obstacles, iterate through failures, and ultimately succeed regardless of circumstances.
• Grassroots Entrepreneurship: Building a business from the ground up within your immediate community. The Greatness Grant particularly values ventures that solve real problems for real people you actually know.
• Grant Stacking Strategy: Applying to multiple complementary funding sources simultaneously. Smart Greatness Grant applicants also pursue other opportunities, using each application to refine their pitch and increase overall success probability.

Author

When I founded Grantaura, I had one mission: strip away the mystery surrounding grant funding and make it accessible to entrepreneurs who’ve been told “no” too many times. Writing about the Greatness Grant hits particularly close to home because it embodies everything I believe funding should be – accessible, supportive, and focused on potential over pedigree. Having guided over 300 clients through successful grant applications, I’ve seen firsthand how the right funding at the right moment can transform not just businesses, but entire communities.

The Greatness Grant’s emphasis on community impact over polished projections reminds us that the best entrepreneurs aren’t always the ones with MBAs – they’re the ones who see problems others ignore and refuse to accept that nothing can be done. At Grantaura, we’ve built our entire platform around this philosophy, creating free resources and expert guidance that level the playing field for every entrepreneur ready to chase their own version of greatness.