Funding & Grant Opportunities Every Disability-Owned Business Should Know (2025 Edition)

Discover the top grants and funding opportunities for disability-owned businesses in 2025. Learn eligibility requirements, application tips, and real success stories from entrepreneurs.

Introduction

Starting or scaling a business takes vision, grit—and money. For disability-owned businesses, access to funding can be one of the toughest hurdles. Traditional loans may be out of reach, and many entrepreneurs aren’t aware of the specialized grants and programs designed to support them.

The good news? In 2025, more organizations, agencies, and private groups are investing in disability entrepreneurship than ever before. Below are five funding and grant opportunities every disability-owned business should know, plus practical tips to strengthen your applications and success stories from members of the United States Disability Chamber of Commerce (USDCC).

1. Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) Program

The Social Security Administration’s PASS program allows people receiving SSI to set aside income or resources to achieve a specific work goal. That could mean saving for equipment, startup costs, training, or business expenses—without losing critical benefits.

Why it matters: PASS reduces the “benefits cliff” fear that stops many entrepreneurs with disabilities from pursuing business ownership.

• Eligibility: Must be receiving or eligible for SSI.

• Pro Tip: Work with a benefits planner to structure your PASS plan so it aligns with long-term growth.

2. NASE Growth Grants

The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) offers Growth Grants of up to $4,000 for business expansion, marketing, hiring, and equipment. Membership is required, but the potential ROI is strong.

Why it matters: This grant has funded thousands of entrepreneurs nationwide, including disability-owned businesses who needed seed funding to scale.

• Eligibility: Must be an NASE member in good standing.

• Pro Tip: Be clear on how funds will directly generate revenue or jobs—it increases your odds of approval.

3. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)

Keywords: disability small business loans, CDFI disability entrepreneur funding

CDFIs are mission-driven lenders who often provide grants, low-interest loans, and technical assistance. Many prioritize underserved entrepreneurs, including those with disabilities. Organizations like Accion Opportunity Fund and LiftFund have disability-inclusive lending practices.

Why it matters: More flexible than traditional banks, with built-in support networks.

• Eligibility: Varies by lender; most focus on small and early-stage businesses.

• Pro Tip: Use CDFIs as a stepping stone to build credit and prepare for larger financing rounds.

4. State & Local Accessibility and Inclusion Grants

Many states and municipalities offer grants that cover accessibility upgrades, inclusive hiring programs, or minority/disability-owned business support. Examples include city-led accessibility improvement funds or state-backed business incentive grants.

Why it matters: These programs not only improve operations but also show customers and clients that your business prioritizes inclusion.

• Eligibility: Local business license; in some states, certification as a Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE).

• Pro Tip: Check your state’s economic development office and set Google Alerts for “disability business grants” in your city.

5. Specialized & Private Grants for Disability Entrepreneurs

Several national initiatives and private programs specifically uplift marginalized founders, including those with disabilities:

• Transform Business Grant – Supports underrepresented entrepreneurs with direct funding.

• NAACP x Leslie’s Certification Boost Grant – Helps disability-owned businesses cover the cost of certification, including DOBE or veteran-owned status.

• Assistive Technology Innovation Grants – Offered by nonprofits and foundations supporting inclusive tech.

Why it matters: Private grants often come with mentorship, visibility, and networks—benefits that last beyond the check.

Bonus: Stories from USDCC Members

At USDCC, we’ve seen members leverage these opportunities to grow real businesses:

• A veteran-owned accessibility consulting firm used a PASS plan to purchase adaptive software and expand nationally.

• A disability-owned bakery in Texas secured a CDFI microloan, allowing them to hire two employees and triple their capacity.

These stories prove the point: funding isn’t charity—it’s fuel for growth.

Practical Tips for Winning Grants

1. Get Certified: Certification as a Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) or Veteran-Owned Disability Business (VOBD) strengthens your case.

2. Tell a Growth Story: Funders want to see impact—jobs created, revenue potential, or community benefit.

3. Apply Widely: Grants are competitive; apply to multiple opportunities at once.

4. Leverage Networks: Join USDCC and similar groups to get alerts, templates, and peer feedback.

Conclusion

Disability-owned businesses are a rising economic force. Yet too often, the barrier to capital keeps good ideas from becoming thriving enterprises. By tapping into these five funding and grant opportunities, you can close the gap, accelerate growth, and set your business up for long-term success.

At USDCC, we’re here to help you find, apply for, and win the support you need. Join today and let’s build the Chamber of the Future—together.