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United States: what a solo founder can apply for

1 place and 4 programs so far. Each place has its own page with the programs we have listed, the eligibility conditions and the source.

4programs listed

PlacesOpen a place to see the programs we have listed

United States (federal)4 programs · Open for applications

Comparison

Headline maximum versus what a solo founder can apply for1 place. Select a row to expand it.

Place	Headline maximum	Open to a solo founder	Type of support	Example	Application window
United States (federal)Checked against the source	US$5 million 7(a) loan, maximum amount	4 programs		MicroloansUp to US$50,000; the average is about US$13,000	Open for applications
What a solo founder can apply for in these programs MicroloansUp to US$50,000; the average is about US$13,000 Lent by SBA-approved nonprofit intermediaries, which make all credit decisions and set the terms. The business must be small under SBA size requirements. The money cannot be used to pay existing debts or buy real estate. Source 7(a) loansUp to US$5 million A loan from a lender, guaranteed by the SBA. It can cover working capital, equipment, real estate and refinancing. Your lender helps decide which type of loan fits. Source SBIR and STTR (America's Seed Fund)Equity-free awards from 11 federal agencies For American small businesses developing a technology. The official overview page gives no dollar figure; each participating agency selects and funds proposals. Source SCORE mentoringFree advice from volunteer business mentors By email, telephone and video, on an ongoing basis. SCORE is a nonprofit partner of the SBA and also runs workshops and online courses. Source Why the headline figure is out of reach: It is a loan made by a lender with an SBA guarantee, not a grant, and it must be repaid. Eligibility depends on what the business does, its credit history and where it operates. Eligibility conditions Both loan programs must be repaid, and the lender, not the SBA, makes the credit decision. A business must count as small under SBA size requirements and must not be an ineligible type. SBIR and STTR fund technology development, not general business costs. Application window Microloans and 7(a) loans are arranged through lenders and have no application rounds. SBIR and STTR deadlines are set by each agency and are not listed here. Handled by: SBA-approved lenders for the loans, and the participating federal agencies for SBIR and STTR. Source: U.S. Small Business Administration (official websites). Last checked on 2026-10-04.

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