Grants

Grants — money you don't pay back.

Grants are awarded money you don't repay — start here before you ever consider borrowing. Many charge a small application fee (often around $50), and most run on application cycles with specific eligibility, so check each one's deadlines and requirements before you apply.

Apply to everything you qualify for. Most awards are modest and many have a small application fee — but they add up, and you don't pay them back.
A gentle caution
Eligibility, deadlines, and award amounts change year to year. Always confirm current details directly with each organization before applying. Listing here is not an endorsement.