Reentering society after incarceration is tough. Formerly incarcerated individuals often face steep challenges—from finding housing and employment to rebuilding their self-worth and credibility. But one powerful tool gaining momentum in rehabilitation efforts is microgrants for felons.
These small-scale funding opportunities offer a fresh start—fueling entrepreneurship, education, and reintegration.
What Are Microgrants?
Microgrants are small sums of money—typically under $10,000—awarded to individuals or organizations. Unlike loans, microgrants don’t need to be repaid, making them an ideal funding source for people with limited or no access to traditional financing.
They’re designed for:
- Starting a business
- Paying for certifications or education
- Buying tools or equipment for a job
- Covering transitional living costs
For felons, microgrants can be life-altering—a chance to move forward when society often says “no.”
Why Felons Need Microgrants?
A felony record carries a heavy stigma. Even after serving time, ex-offenders face:
- Job Discrimination: Many employers screen out applicants with records.
- Banking Barriers: Bad credit or no credit often blocks loans.
- Housing Issues: Landlords may refuse to rent to felons.
- Entrepreneurial Roadblocks: No capital, no collateral, and no investor trust.
Microgrants help break this cycle. They don’t require credit checks or repayment. More importantly, they reflect trust and belief—which can be more powerful than the money itself.
Microgrant Programs for Felons
Here are real programs helping ex-offenders get a second shot:
1. The Fountain Fund
- Focus: Low-income formerly incarcerated individuals
- Grant Type: Loan-to-grant conversion based on success milestones
- Uses: Start businesses, get tools, pay off court debt
2. Rise Up Industries (San Diego)
- Focus: Reentry through business training and small grants
- Program: Machine shop training + microgrants for launch support
3. Refoundry
- Focus: Entrepreneurship for formerly incarcerated individuals
- Grant Use: Business development support + tools + mentorship
4. Inmates to Entrepreneurs
- Focus: Free education + small startup grants
- Extras: Business launch bootcamps, online training, mentoring
5. Defy Ventures
- Focus: Transforming prison hustle into legitimate business
- Grant Use: Business competitions with cash prize
Many states and counties have their own grant programs for reentry. These are often listed under local workforce boards, reentry coalitions, or community development initiatives.
Reentry-Specific Microgrants
Some microgrants are directly tied to reentry programs, which often help with:
- Security deposits for housing
- Transportation (bus passes, car repairs)
- Licensing and job training costs
📞 Start by calling 2-1-1, or ask at local reentry centers, churches, or probation offices.
Regional Example: MicroGrants in the Twin Cities
MicroGrants (Minnesota) provides up to $2,500 for individuals in the greater Minneapolis–St. Paul area. Felons can apply through partner agencies to receive funds for:
- Education or trade school
- Work tools and supplies
- Small business startup expenses
National Microgrant Opportunities for Felons
Here’s a curated list of active microgrant programs that ex-offenders can apply for nationwide:
1. The Awesome Foundation
- Amount: $1,000/month
- Purpose: Any “awesome” project—business, art, invention, etc.
- Location: U.S. & international chapters
- Apply here
2. 1517 Medici Project
- Amount: $1,000
- Audience: Young entrepreneurs (especially tech/science ideas)
- Goal: Encourage innovation outside traditional schooling
- More info here
3. Inflection Microgrants
- Amount: $2,000
- Who Qualifies: Felons under age 25
- Use Cases: Art, education, career prep, personal development
- Apply here
4. NAACP + Leslie’s Certification Boost Grant
- Amount: $5,000
- Target Group: Black entrepreneurs and business owners
- Use: Business certifications, licenses, and skills training
- Visit the NAACP Grants page
5. HerRise Microgrant
- Amount: $1,000 (monthly)
- For: Under-resourced women entrepreneurs
- Eligibility: Small business owner with limited capital
- Details and application
Government Programs Offering Free Aid (Felon-Friendly)
While not always labeled as “microgrants,” several government programs provide free money for low-income or justice-impacted individuals:
| Program | Purpose |
| Pell Grants | Up to $7,395/year for college or trade school (Learn more) |
| FSEOG | Up to $4,000/year for students with exceptional need |
| WIOA Grants | Covers vocational training, CDL, tech skills (visit your local Job Center) |
| TANF | Monthly aid for low-income families |
| SNAP | Food assistance via EBT card |
| LIHEAP | Help paying energy bills |
| Lifeline Program | Free mobile phone service (Check here) |
| Head Start | Free childcare while you work/study (More info) |
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
Each program is different, but common requirements include:
- Proof of felony conviction or incarceration
- Demonstrated commitment to change (e.g., job, sobriety, program participation)
- Clear business or personal development plan
- Residency in a qualifying area
- Sometimes: references or mentorship program enrollment
What Can Microgrants Be Used For?
Felons can use microgrants for things like:
| Purpose | Example |
| Starting a small business | Buying a food cart, tools, etc. |
| Training/education | CDL license, trade school fees |
| Reentry needs | Housing deposit, transport passes |
| Career tools | Laptops, software, job kits |
| Legal fees | Expungement, child custody costs |
Impact: Real Change from Small Grants
Even grants as small as $500–$2,000 can mean the difference between relapse and reentry success. They:
- Reduce recidivism
- Increase employment
- Boost entrepreneurship
- Strengthen families and communities
In a system that often invests in punishment, microgrants invest in potential.
How to Find and Apply for Microgrants?
- Search Local Reentry Programs: Use keywords like “reentry grants” + your city/state.
- Contact Nonprofits: Ask orgs like Goodwill, United Way, or local job centers.
- Network with Mentors: Former felons who’ve “made it” often know grant sources.
- Visit National Platforms: Check:
- Prepare to Pitch: Even small grants need clarity. Prepare:
- A 1-page story or pitch
- A rough budget
- Proof of personal progress
Final Thought
Microgrants for felons aren’t just money—they’re momentum. They restore dignity, create opportunity, and give people the tools to write a better chapter. With the right support and a clear goal, a few hundred dollars can change everything.
If you—or someone you know—is ready to rebuild, don’t wait for the perfect opportunity. Microgrants prove that second chances don’t have to be big to be powerful.
FAQs
What are microgrants for felons?
Microgrants for felons are small, non-repayable amounts of money—typically between $500 and $5,000—offered to formerly incarcerated individuals. They’re designed to support business startups, education, job training, transportation, or other reentry needs.
Do I need to repay a microgrant?
No. Microgrants are not loans and do not need to be repaid. They are gifted funds, awarded based on need, potential, or alignment with the funder’s goals.
Can I get a microgrant even if it’s not for felons?
Yes. Most microgrants aren’t limited to felons. If you have a compelling personal story, project, or need, you can apply for any general microgrant that fits your goals.
How can I apply for a microgrant as a felon?
Follow these steps:
Search local and national programs (use keywords like “microgrant + your city”).
Prepare a short personal pitch or business idea.
Provide basic documentation (ID, address, income level).
Submit applications regularly—many grants are monthly or rolling.
Are there microgrants for women felons?
Yes. Programs like the HerRise Microgrant award $1,000 monthly to women entrepreneurs, including those with criminal records. Many women-focused funds welcome formerly incarcerated applicants.
Can young felons get microgrants?
Yes. Programs like the Inflection Microgrant offer $2,000 for people under 25, whether for creative projects, education, or self-improvement.
Are there any government microgrants for felons?
While the government doesn’t label them “microgrants,” felons can qualify for:
Pell Grants for education
WIOA funding for job training
TANF, SNAP, and LIHEAP for basic needs
These are federal or state-funded aid programs open to low-income individuals, including those with felony records.
What if my microgrant application gets denied?
Don’t give up. Many programs receive high volumes of applicants. Keep applying each month and tailor your story to match the program’s mission. Also consider reaching out to local nonprofits or reentry services for help writing stronger applications.
