Young Entrepreneurs Grant Program is sponsored by GBDC Entrepreneurship Institute. A funding opportunity designed to empower Florida's next generation of founders. This program supports emerging founders under age 25 who have already launched a real, revenue-generating business in Florida and are ready to grow, stabilize, or scale their ventures.

Young Entrepreneurs Grant Program | GBDC Entrepreneurship Institute 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Grant Program Young Entrepreneurs Grant Program A funding opportunity designed to empower Florida's next generation of founders. Supporting young innovators under 25 who have already launched a business and are ready to grow, scale, and lead. Apply Now — $15 Application Fee Micro-capital for real businesses run by real young founders.

The GBDC Entrepreneurship Institute Young Entrepreneurs Grant Program supports emerging founders under age 25 who have already launched a real, revenue-generating business in Florida. This program is designed to fund early-stage entrepreneurs, especially those who need micro-capital to grow, stabilize, or scale their ventures.

The award pool is directly determined by the number of paid applications, ensuring full transparency and scalability. From application to award — here's how it works. Submit your completed application with the $15 fee during this period.

Top applicants are notified of their semi-finalist status. Winners announced at the Young Entrepreneurs Gala event. Funds delivered via ACH, check, or business PayPal/Stripe account.

All applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify. Must be under 25 years old as of the application deadline (August 31, 2026). Applicants must reside in the state of Florida.

Must have an established business operating in Florida with an Instagram Shop, website, or Facebook Shop. Must have made at least one sale with verifiable proof: invoice, receipt, contract, or order confirmation. Any industry is eligible as long as you sell a product or service.

Influencer-only and content-creator-only pages are excluded. Proof of sale, proof of age, product photos, and business screenshots are required with your application. Transparent funding — the award pool scales with applications received.

Application fee: $15 non-refundable . GBDCEI allocates up to 20–30% of the pool for gala production, venue, media, youth program operations, payment processing, and staff/judging committee — aligned with nonprofit best practices. What You'll Need to Apply Complete all five sections to submit your application.

Full name, date of birth, address, email, phone, and your Instagram Shop link or business website URL. Business Verification Uploads EIN (optional), proof of at least one sale (invoice, receipt, contract, or order confirmation), and proof of age. Business Narrative Questions Eight questions about your business model, origin story, progress, challenges, grant impact, 12-month goals, uniqueness, and any additional information.

Current monthly revenue, monthly expenses, prior funding received, and how much capital you need and why. Business logo (optional), product photos, Instagram Shop/website/Facebook screenshots, event setup pictures (optional), and proof of sale. Pay the $15 application fee via Stripe.

You'll receive a confirmation email and receipt immediately. How Applications Are Judged Our review committee evaluates each application on six key criteria. Clarity of Business Model Is the product or service clearly defined?

Is the target market identifiable? Has the business made at least one sale? Is there evidence of real customer engagement?

Will the grant meaningfully accelerate growth? Is the funding plan specific and realistic? Does the entrepreneur show passion, persistence, and a clear direction for the business?

Feasibility of Growth Plan Are the 12-month goals achievable? Is the plan grounded in realistic milestones? Does the business contribute positively to the local community or serve an underserved need?

Program Rules & Fund Usage Know what's expected before you apply.

✓ Approved Uses of Grant Funds ✓ Lawful business registration in Florida & IRS EIN (documentation required or funds will be recalled) ✓ Inventory and equipment ✓ Marketing and advertising ✓ Business certifications ✓ Legal or accounting services ✗ Rent unrelated to business ✗ Influencer sponsorships ✗ Cryptocurrency or trading Application fee is non-refundable Incomplete applications are not reviewed Applicants may apply once per cycle All information must be truthful and verifiable GBDCEI reserves the right to request additional documentation, disqualify for fraud, or adjust award amounts based on volume Ready to Grow Your Business?

Applications are open May 1 – August 31, 2026. Don't miss your chance to receive micro-grant funding and be recognized at the Young Entrepreneurs Gala.