Small Business Grant Programs in California 2026

The Preserve Route 66 Legacy Business Grant Fund, offered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, provides financial support to businesses to preserve historic places and spur economic development along the Route 66 corridor, with an emphasis on projects that illuminate the narratives of communities whose places and stories have been historically underrepresented. Grants generally range from $5,000 to $10,000, no match is required, and funds support capital improvements, planning, and marketing and outreach projects for legacy businesses located in communities and neighborhoods along the Route 66 corridor across Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.

The Shophand $5k Small Business Boost Grant is designed to help non‑techie small business owners solve their biggest tech or operational challenge, pairing cash with hands‑on Shophand support.

The California Underserved and Small Producers Program (CUSP) provides direct relief grants to small and medium scale California agricultural producers, and small and medium scale socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers, to help cover costs from drought, extreme weather, and other climate impacts. Grants are distributed on a rolling basis through a network of CDFA-approved Direct Assistance Providers rather than CDFA directly, so applicants apply through whichever regional provider covers their area or operation type.

Spectrum Reach’s Pay It Forward Program gives selected small businesses a free TV and streaming ad campaign, a produced 30‑second commercial, and access to marketing education and mentorship to support local business growth.