The California Chamber of Commerce has officially launched its inaugural Small Business Grant Awards, providing a total of $20,000 in funding to support small businesses statewide. In collaboration with various California associations, CalChamber will award four grants of $5,000 each to deserving recipients.
Among the grants, two will specifically assist small businesses that have been affected by recent wildfires in Los Angeles, including those impacted by the Eaton Fire and the Palisades Fire. The other two grants will be allotted to small businesses across the Greater California region. In addition to the financial grant, awardees will receive a complimentary one-year Online Membership with CalChamber, valued at $499.
Eligibility for the grant requires applicants to be independently owned and operated, based in California, and have 100 or fewer employees. Furthermore, businesses must have average annual gross receipts of $15 million or less over the past three years and must align with CalChamber’s mission to enhance California’s economy and business landscape.
Applicants must demonstrate contributions in areas such as leadership, employee relations, community engagement, and innovation. This encompasses initiatives in job creation, financial growth, workforce development, sustainability, and the implementation of distinctive business solutions. Notably, those connected to CalChamber’s board or employed within the organization are ineligible to apply.
All applicants should be prepared to attend the California Business Outlook Dinner in Sacramento on June 4, 2025, where the awards will be presented. Applications must be submitted via the designated Small Business Grants Submission Form by April 11, 2025. Winners will be announced on May 5, 2025.
Grant funds can be utilized for business operations, recovery, growth, or other acceptable business needs; however, they cannot be allocated for political or lobbying purposes. Recipients are responsible for any associated tax liabilities from the grant.
Awardees are also expected to adhere to all relevant federal, state, and local regulations and participate in promotional activities, including interviews and testimonials. Non-compliance with the program’s terms may result in grant forfeiture and possible legal consequences.
CalChamber reserves the right to modify or cancel the grant program at any time, and decisions made by the selection committee will be final and not subject to appeal.
Submitted information will be used solely for the administration and evaluation of the program, with confidential business details remaining protected unless legally required to disclose. By applying, businesses consent to the use of their name and general information for promotional purposes.
For inquiries regarding the Small Business Grant Program, contact the Grant Awards Administrator.
