Detroit City Wire

Several grant programs are currently accepting applications in October, offering financial support to small businesses and organizations across the United States. These grants target a range of sectors including STEM, the arts, veteran entrepreneurship, community organizations, and restaurants addressing food insecurity.

The AAUW Career Development Grants provide up to $8,000 for women aiming to advance their careers in STEM fields. According to the program guidelines, "The grants fund accredited certificate, credential, or training programs of at least 400 instructional hours in fast-growing fields where women remain underrepresented. They also support women already working in STEM who want leadership or executive training to move into decision-making roles." Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a bachelor’s degree. The deadline for this round is October 7, 2025.

Artists facing unexpected medical emergencies can apply for the Rauschenberg Medical Emergency Grant. This program offers up to $5,000 for artists in visual arts, choreography, or film/video/electronic/digital arts who have experienced recent medical, dental, or mental health emergencies. Eligibility is limited by income level and covers specific out-of-pocket expenses related to emergency care. Applications for Cycle 33 open on October 7, 2025.

Veteran entrepreneurs can seek funding through the Stephen L. Tadlock Veteran Business Grant. The initiative awards $1,000 micro-grants and access to a business program for each of 20 selected veterans nationwide. To qualify, applicants must be U.S. military veterans who own and operate businesses with two to 100 employees and less than $5 million in annual revenue. The application deadline is also October 7, 2025.

Local nonprofits and public entities may apply for Walmart Spark Good Local Grants provided by Walmart and Sam’s Club. Grants range from $250 to $5,000 and are available to organizations that address local community needs. Eligible applicants include registered charities (501(c)(3)), public entities, and educational institutions that are Deed verified with a Spark Good account. Applications are accepted quarterly; the current cycle closes on October 15, 2025.

Restaurants committed to fighting food insecurity can apply for the Toast Changemakers Program presented by Toast in partnership with Hello Alice and GEN. "Through the Toast Changemakers Program, fifteen restaurant owners will each receive a $10,000 grant to expand or enhance their existing community programs dedicated to addressing food insecurity," according to program information. Applications close on October 17, 2025.

These opportunities reflect ongoing efforts by various organizations to support business growth and community initiatives through targeted grant funding.