How to Apply for Long Beach Business Grants

Starting or expanding a business in Long Beach, California, presents unique opportunities fueled by a vibrant economy, strategic coastal location, and strong municipal support for local entrepreneurs. One of the most valuable resources available to business owners in the region is access to business grants—non-repayable funds designed to stimulate economic growth, encourage innovation, and support underserved communities. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment, making them an ideal financial tool for startups, minority-owned enterprises, and small businesses navigating early-stage challenges.

However, securing a Long Beach business grant is not as simple as submitting an application. It requires strategic planning, thorough documentation, and a clear understanding of eligibility criteria, evaluation standards, and local priorities. Many qualified applicants miss out simply because they misunderstand the process, submit incomplete materials, or fail to align their proposal with the city’s economic development goals.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of applying for Long Beach business grants—from identifying the right opportunities to submitting a winning application. Whether you’re launching a tech startup in downtown Long Beach, opening a neighborhood café in the Pike District, or scaling a minority-owned manufacturing business, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge, tools, and real-world examples to maximize your chances of success.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Types of Business Grants Available in Long Beach

Long Beach offers a variety of grant programs tailored to different business needs, industries, and demographic groups. Before you begin applying, it’s critical to identify which grants align with your business model and goals. The primary categories include:

• Small Business Economic Development Grants – Designed to support job creation, capital investment, and business retention in targeted neighborhoods such as the Belmont Shore, North Long Beach, and the Green Line Corridor.
• Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Grants – Aimed at increasing equity in business ownership by providing funding to entrepreneurs from historically underrepresented communities.
• Green and Sustainable Business Grants – For businesses implementing energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction systems, or sustainable supply chains.
• Neighborhood Revitalization Grants – Focused on businesses that contribute to the revitalization of commercial corridors, particularly those impacted by economic downturns or disinvestment.
• Technology and Innovation Grants – For startups in tech, biotech, clean energy, or digital services that demonstrate scalable potential and local impact.

Each grant has distinct objectives. For example, a MWBE grant may prioritize businesses owned by Black, Latinx, Indigenous, or Asian entrepreneurs, while a Green Business Grant may require proof of LEED certification or carbon footprint reduction metrics. Research each program’s mission statement and past recipients to ensure alignment.

Step 2: Verify Your Eligibility

Eligibility criteria are the first gatekeepers in the grant application process. Missing even one requirement can result in automatic disqualification. Key eligibility factors include:

• Business Location – Your business must be physically located within the city limits of Long Beach. Home-based businesses are often eligible, provided they comply with zoning regulations.
• Business Structure – Most grants require registration as an LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship with the State of California. Nonprofits may be eligible for certain community-focused grants.
• Ownership Demographics – MWBE grants require proof of ownership by individuals who identify as women, veterans, LGBTQ+, or members of racial or ethnic minority groups. Documentation such as tax returns, ownership agreements, or certification from the California Department of General Services may be required.
• Years in Operation – Some grants are for startups (less than 2 years old), while others require businesses to have been operational for at least 12–24 months.
• Revenue and Employment Thresholds – Many grants cap eligibility based on annual revenue (e.g., under $5 million) or number of employees (e.g., fewer than 50 FTEs).

Always consult the official grant guidelines on the City of Long Beach Economic Development Department website. Do not assume eligibility based on hearsay or outdated information. Requirements change annually based on funding availability and city priorities.

Step 3: Gather Required Documentation

A complete application package is non-negotiable. Incomplete submissions are typically rejected without review. Prepare the following documents well in advance:

• Business License – Issued by the City of Long Beach. Apply online through the Business License Division if you haven’t already.
• Tax Identification Number (EIN) – Obtain from the IRS if you don’t have one.
• Financial Statements – Including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow projections for the past 1–3 years. If you’re a startup, provide detailed forecasts based on market research.
• Business Plan – A 5–10 page document outlining your mission, market analysis, competitive landscape, marketing strategy, operational plan, and financial goals. This is often the most heavily weighted component of the application.
• Proof of Ownership – For MWBE grants, submit ownership affidavits, articles of incorporation, or partnership agreements that clearly show majority ownership by eligible individuals.
• Resumes of Key Personnel – Highlight relevant experience, especially if your team includes individuals with industry-specific expertise.
• Letters of Support – From community organizations, chambers of commerce, or local partners who endorse your project’s impact.
• Photos and Site Plans – If applying for a grant tied to physical improvements (e.g., façade upgrades, signage, or equipment installation), include before-and-after renderings or blueprints.

Organize all documents in a single digital folder with clear, labeled filenames (e.g., “BusinessPlan_YourBusinessName.pdf”, “TaxReturn_2023.pdf”). Submitting disorganized files can create a negative impression, even if your content is strong.

Step 4: Identify Current Grant Opportunities

Grant programs are not always active. Funding cycles vary by fiscal year and may be tied to state or federal allocations. To find current opportunities:

• Visit the City of Long Beach Economic Development Department website. Look under “Grants & Funding” or “Business Resources.”
• Subscribe to the Long Beach Business Development Newsletter. It includes monthly updates on open applications, deadlines, and workshops.
• Check the California Business Portal for state-funded programs that may be administered locally in Long Beach.
• Attend quarterly business resource fairs hosted by the Long Beach Small Business Development Center (SBDC). These events often reveal upcoming grant cycles before they’re publicly posted.
• Follow the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce on LinkedIn and Twitter for real-time announcements.

Set calendar reminders for application deadlines. Most grants have strict cutoff dates with no extensions. Missing a deadline means waiting 6–12 months for the next cycle.

Step 5: Craft a Compelling Grant Proposal

The grant proposal is your narrative. It’s not just a form—it’s a persuasive argument for why your business deserves public investment. A strong proposal answers three core questions:

1. What problem are you solving? – Clearly define the market need your business addresses. Use local data: “In 2023, Long Beach had 12% fewer grocery stores per capita than the state average, particularly in the West Side neighborhood.”
2. Why is your business the right solution? – Highlight your unique value proposition. “Our mobile grocery van will serve 5,000 residents in underserved ZIP codes 90805 and 90806, providing fresh produce twice weekly with SNAP acceptance.”
3. What is the measurable impact of the grant? – Tie funding to outcomes: “With $25,000 in grant funding, we will hire three part-time employees, increase annual revenue by 40%, and reduce food insecurity for 1,200 households in 12 months.”

Structure your proposal with these sections:

• Executive Summary – One paragraph summarizing your business, funding request, and expected impact.
• Business Overview – History, mission, legal structure, and ownership.
• Market Analysis – Target audience, competitors, and demand in Long Beach.
• Project Description – What you will do with the grant funds. Be specific: “$15,000 for commercial kitchen equipment, $8,000 for digital marketing, $2,000 for staff training.”
• Budget – Itemized breakdown of how funds will be used. Include matching funds if applicable (e.g., “We are contributing $10,000 in owner equity.”).
• Timeline – Milestones with dates: “Phase 1: Equipment purchase (Month 1), Phase 2: Staff hiring (Month 2), Phase 3: Grand opening (Month 4).”
• Long-Term Sustainability – How the business will continue without ongoing grant support.

Use clear, jargon-free language. Avoid hyperbole. Grant reviewers read dozens of applications—clarity and specificity win.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Most Long Beach business grants are submitted through an online portal. Common platforms include the City’s Grant Management System or third-party tools like GrantSolutions or Smartsheet.

Before submitting:

• Double-check all fields for accuracy. Typos in business names or EINs can trigger rejection.
• Ensure all documents are uploaded in PDF format with readable text (not scanned images).
• Confirm the submission timestamp. Late submissions—even by minutes—are not accepted.
• Save a copy of your submission confirmation email. This serves as proof of delivery.

Some grants require an in-person or virtual interview after submission. Prepare to discuss your business plan, answer questions about financial projections, and explain how your project aligns with the city’s Strategic Economic Plan. Practice your pitch with a mentor or business advisor.

Step 7: Follow Up and Prepare for Review

After submission, the review process typically takes 4–8 weeks. During this time:

• Do not contact reviewers repeatedly. It can be perceived as pushy and may delay your review.
• Monitor your email and voicemail for updates. Some notifications are sent via automated systems.
• Prepare for a site visit. Grant administrators may visit your business location to verify operations, especially for grants tied to physical improvements.
• If you are selected, expect to sign a grant agreement outlining reporting requirements, use-of-funds restrictions, and performance metrics.
• If denied, request feedback. Many programs offer post-decision consultations to help applicants improve future submissions.

Even if you’re not awarded funding this cycle, the application process itself strengthens your business plan and financial discipline—both critical for securing loans or private investment later.

Best Practices

Align with City Priorities

The City of Long Beach has clear economic development goals outlined in its Long Beach 2040 Comprehensive Plan and Equity and Inclusion Framework. Successful applicants demonstrate how their business supports these priorities:

• Creating jobs in high-unemployment neighborhoods
• Increasing access to healthy food, childcare, or affordable housing
• Reducing environmental impact through green practices
• Supporting workforce development and local hiring
• Promoting diversity in entrepreneurship

Reference these documents in your proposal. For example: “This project directly supports Goal 3.2 of the Long Beach 2040 Plan by expanding access to sustainable retail options in a designated Opportunity Zone.”

Build Community Partnerships

Grant reviewers favor businesses that collaborate with local institutions. Partner with:

• Local schools or community colleges for workforce training
• Nonprofits for outreach or service delivery
• Chambers of commerce for marketing support
• Neighborhood associations for community buy-in

Include letters of collaboration in your application. A partnership with the Long Beach Unified School District to host student internships, for example, adds credibility and shows long-term community integration.

Be Transparent About Finances

Honesty about your financial situation builds trust. If your business has had losses in the past, explain why and how you’ve addressed the issue. If you’re seeking a grant to cover startup costs, show that you’ve invested your own capital first. Grant programs look for “skin in the game”—applicants who are committed beyond just seeking free money.

Use Data to Support Claims

Instead of saying, “There’s high demand for our service,” say: “According to the 2023 Long Beach Consumer Survey, 68% of residents in ZIP code 90804 expressed difficulty accessing affordable pet grooming services within a 3-mile radius.”

Use publicly available data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Long Beach Planning Department, or the California Employment Development Department to ground your arguments in facts.

Plan for Reporting and Accountability

Most grants require quarterly or annual reports on job creation, revenue growth, or community impact. Before applying, ensure you have systems in place to track these metrics. Use free tools like Google Sheets or QuickBooks to log outcomes. Failure to report can result in repayment demands—even if you received the funds legally.

Apply Early and Apply Often

Don’t wait until the last minute. Early applicants often receive feedback during pre-submission reviews. Also, don’t limit yourself to one grant. Many businesses successfully stack funding—e.g., a MWBE grant for equipment, a Green Business grant for solar panels, and a City Revitalization grant for signage. Each grant has different rules, so ensure they’re compatible.

Tools and Resources

Official City Resources

• Long Beach Economic Development Department – www.longbeach.gov/economicdevelopment – Central hub for grant listings, application portals, and contact information.
• Long Beach Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – Offers free one-on-one coaching, business plan reviews, and grant writing workshops. Visit lbsbdc.org.
• Long Beach Business License Division – Required for all applicants. Apply or renew at www.longbeach.gov/businesslicense.
• California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) – State-level grants that may be available in Long Beach. www.govbiz.ca.gov.

Grant Research Platforms

• Grants.gov – Federal grant database. Search for programs administered by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) or Small Business Administration (SBA) in California.
• Foundation Directory Online – Accessible through public libraries (including Long Beach Public Library) for private foundation grants that fund small businesses.
• LocalGiving.org – Lists regional philanthropies supporting Long Beach entrepreneurs.

Business Planning and Financial Tools

• SCORE – Free templates for business plans and financial projections. Visit score.org.
• Canva – Design professional-looking pitch decks or visual summaries for grant interviews.
• QuickBooks – Track expenses and generate financial reports required for applications.
• Google Trends – Validate local demand for your product or service by analyzing search volume in Long Beach.

Networking and Mentorship

• Long Beach Chamber of Commerce – Hosts monthly networking events and has a dedicated Small Business Council.
• Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) – Los Angeles – Offers technical assistance to MWBEs. Visit mbda.gov.
• Women’s Business Center of Southern California – Free training and grant prep for female entrepreneurs. wbcsc.org.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Green Grocer – MWBE and Sustainability Grant

Business: The Green Grocer, a mobile produce vendor owned by a Latina entrepreneur in Long Beach.

Challenge: Limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables in the West Side neighborhood, where 30% of residents live below the poverty line.

Grant Applied For: Long Beach MWBE Grant + California Climate Investments Grant for Sustainable Food Systems.

Application Highlights:

• Provided census data showing food deserts in ZIP codes 90805 and 90806.
• Partnered with Cal State Long Beach’s nutrition department to offer free cooking demos.
• Projected hiring of four local residents, including two formerly incarcerated individuals.
• Used electric van with solar-powered refrigeration to reduce emissions.

Outcome: Awarded $42,000. Launched operations in Q3 2023. Now serves 1,200 customers monthly and received a second grant for expansion into two additional neighborhoods.

Example 2: TechNest – Innovation Grant for a SaaS Startup

Business: TechNest, a software startup developing a cloud-based scheduling platform for small dental clinics.

Challenge: High cost of adopting digital tools for independent dental practices in Long Beach.

Grant Applied For: Long Beach Technology Innovation Grant (funded by the City’s Digital Equity Initiative).

Application Highlights:

• Partnered with three local dental offices for beta testing.
• Projected to save clinics an average of 12 hours per week in administrative work.
• Offered free training for 10 low-income clinics as part of the grant’s equity requirement.
• Submitted patent-pending documentation and user testing metrics.

Outcome: Received $35,000. Secured $100,000 in private seed funding after grant visibility. Now employed five full-time developers, all based in Long Beach.

Example 3: Harbor Artisan Bakery – Neighborhood Revitalization Grant

Business: A family-owned bakery opening in a vacant storefront on 4th Street, a corridor targeted for revitalization.

Challenge: The building had been abandoned for five years; the block lacked foot traffic.

Grant Applied For: Long Beach Façade and Main Street Revitalization Grant.

Application Highlights:

• Submitted architectural renderings of proposed façade improvements (new signage, awnings, lighting).
• Collaborated with the 4th Street Business Association to host a monthly “Bakery Nights” event.
• Committed to sourcing 80% of ingredients from local farms.

Outcome: Awarded $28,000 for renovations. Opened in February 2024. Within six months, the block saw a 40% increase in new business applications.

FAQs

Can I apply for multiple Long Beach business grants at the same time?

Yes. Many businesses successfully apply for multiple grants as long as the funding purposes don’t overlap. For example, you can apply for a grant to purchase equipment and another for marketing. Always disclose other applications in your submission to avoid duplication of funding.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to qualify?

No. Legal residents, including those with DACA status or valid work visas, are eligible for most Long Beach grants. However, you must have a valid EIN and business license issued in California.

How competitive are Long Beach business grants?

Competition varies by program. MWBE and neighborhood grants typically receive 20–40 applications per cycle, while innovation grants may receive 10–15. Success rates range from 25% to 50%, depending on funding availability. Strong applications with clear metrics and community alignment have the highest approval rates.

What if my business is not yet operational?

Many grants accept applications from pre-launch businesses, especially if you have signed leases, purchase orders, or letters of intent from customers. You’ll need a detailed business plan and proof of preparation (e.g., business license application in progress).

How long does it take to receive grant funds after approval?

Typically 4–12 weeks. Funds are disbursed after signing a grant agreement and completing any required training or orientation. Some grants require milestone-based payouts (e.g., 50% upfront, 50% after hiring two employees).

Can I use grant funds for personal expenses?

No. Grant funds must be used strictly for business-related expenses as outlined in your application. Misuse can result in repayment demands, fines, or disqualification from future programs.

Is there a limit to how much I can receive?

Yes. Most grants cap at $50,000 per business per fiscal year. Some programs offer up to $100,000 for large-scale job creation or infrastructure projects. Always check the specific grant’s maximum award amount.

Do I have to pay taxes on grant money?

Generally, yes. Grant funds are considered taxable income by the IRS unless specifically exempted by law (e.g., certain disaster relief grants). Consult a tax professional to understand your obligations.

Conclusion

Applying for Long Beach business grants is not a lottery—it’s a strategic process that rewards preparation, clarity, and community alignment. The funds available through these programs represent more than just financial support; they represent a city’s investment in your vision, your employees, and the neighborhoods you serve.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—understanding your options, verifying eligibility, assembling a compelling application, and leveraging local resources—you position your business not just to receive a grant, but to become a catalyst for lasting economic change in Long Beach.

Remember: The most successful applicants don’t just ask for money—they demonstrate how their business will create value, opportunity, and resilience for the entire community. Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling your fifth, Long Beach is ready to support entrepreneurs who are ready to build with purpose.

Start today. Research one grant. Complete one section of your business plan. Reach out to the SBDC. The next successful grant recipient could be you.