Business Funding Opportunities with January 2026 Deadlines
Written by: Nicole Grimes. Posted: January 1st, 2025. 9:17 am ET.
January is one of the most important funding months of the year. Many grant programs, pitch competitions, and accelerators open or close their first application cycles early in Q1, making preparation critical. Below is Carib Biz Network’s curated list of January 2026 funding opportunities with confirmed or historically consistent January deadlines. These are not rolling programs. Each opportunity has a defined application window. Applicants are encouraged to review eligibility requirements carefully and apply early.
1. DoorDash Local Business Disaster Relief Fund
Description: Supports local businesses in the U.S., Puerto Rico, NZ, Australia & Canada impacted by natural disasters.
Award: $5 000 – $15 000
Deadline: Jan 5 2026
2. Tech for an Equitable Future – Braze
Description: 12-month grant of Braze software + services (valued $10K+) to help underrepresented founders grow.
Award: Valued at $10 000 +
Deadline: Jan 16 2026
3. Amex Shop Small Grants Program - For Small Businesses
Description: To help small businesses grow, innovate, and support their local communities, American Express is teaming up with Main Street America this Small Business Saturday® to launch the Amex Shop Small Grants Program. The Program will provide grants to 250 eligible small business owners across the U.S. Applicants must have a physical location.
Award: $20,000
Deadline: January 16th, 2026
Website: https://mainstreet.org/about/partner-collaborations/amex-shop-small-grant-program
4. Amber Grant January Cycle
Grant Amount: $10,000
Who It’s For: Women-owned businesses
Deadline: January 31, 2026
Why It Matters: Monthly grant with an additional annual $25,000 award consideration
Website:
5. The Awesome Foundation Grant
Description: Monthly rolling microgrant supporting creative or community centered ideas with immediate impact.
Award: $1,000
Deadline: Rolling
Website: https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en
Tips for Successful Grant Applications
As you review these opportunities, keep these tips in mind:
Start Early: Don't wait until the last day to apply. Give yourself time to gather materials, craft compelling narratives, and review your application.
Read Requirements Carefully: Each grant has specific eligibility requirements. Make sure you qualify before investing time in an application.
Tell Your Story: Grants for diverse and women business owners often want to understand your unique journey and impact. Don't be afraid to share what makes your business special.
Quantify Your Impact: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate your business's success and potential.
Follow Up: After submitting, follow up appropriately and stay engaged with the organizations offering these grants.
Get This Money For 2026!
Remember: These deadlines are approaching fast. Review the opportunities that align with your business, gather your materials, and get those applications submitted. Your next growth phase could be just one grant away.
For additional information on rolling grants and more opportunities, visit www.caribbiznetwork.com/grants
Note: This post was created with the assistance of genAI with human editing and additions.