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Top 15 Grants for AI Startups in North America in 2025

Top 15 Grants for AI Startups in North America in 2025

The landscape for AI startups is rapidly evolving, and 2025 promises a plethora of funding opportunities to propel innovative companies forward. Here is a detailed guide on the Top 15 Grants for AI Startups in North America for 2025, including eligibility criteria, funding amounts, and links to official sources.
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1. National Science Foundation (NSF) SBIR/STTR Program

Description: The NSF’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs focus on funding R&D for high-potential startups, particularly in groundbreaking technologies such as AI.
Funding Type: Grants (non-dilutive funding)
Target Stage: Early-stage startups with high growth potential.
Amount: $250,000 to over $1 million, depending on project phase.
Eligibility: US-based small businesses with fewer than 500 employees.
Explore NSF SBIR/STTR

2. AI Grant Accelerator

Description: AI Grant is an accelerator program tailored for seed-stage AI-native product startups, offering funding and vital resources for growth.
Funding Type: SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity)
Target Stage: Seed-stage startups.
Amount: $250,000 on an uncapped SAFE, plus $350,000 Azure credits.
Additional Benefits: Access to mentorship, a summit in San Francisco, and a demo day with top-tier investors.
Learn more about AI Grant
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3. NVIDIA Inception Program

Description: This program supports AI startups by providing access to technology, resources, and a network that fosters business growth in data-driven initiatives.
Funding Type: Access to resources and technology credits.
Target Stage: All stages of startups.
Amount: Variable based on company needs.
Additional Benefits: Provides GPU credits, technical support, and access to NVIDIA’s large network.
Visit NVIDIA Inception

4. The Arthur W. Page Center's Page/Johnson Legacy Scholar Grant

Description: This grant targets academic researchers exploring the ethics of generative AI in public communication.
Funding Type: Grant
Target Stage: Academic proposals.
Amount: Not specified, varies.
Eligibility: Proposals employing diverse methodologies are welcome.
Find more information on the Page Center

5. AI Seed Grant Program at Princeton University

Description: The Princeton AI Lab offers seed grants to kickstart AI research across various domains, emphasizing innovative and impactful proposals.
Funding Type: Seed Grant
Target Stage: Early-stage research projects.
Amount: Grants from $0 to $110,000 based on project scope.
Eligibility: Exclusively for Princeton faculty and lecturers.
Explore AI Seed Grant Program

6. AI-Informed Discovery and Inquiry Seed Grants at Johns Hopkins University

Description: These grants facilitate funding for AI and data-driven projects proposed by faculty in the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences.
Funding Type: Seed Grant
Target Stage: Early-stage research projects.
Amount: Up to $25,000 direct costs.
Eligibility: Limited to tenure-track and research faculty at Johns Hopkins.
Learn more about this grant

7. AI Journal (IJCAI) Funding Calls

Description: The Artificial Intelligence Journal offers funding for activities that promote AI research and community engagement.
Funding Type: Sponsorship for AI-related initiatives.
Target Stage: Various, focusing on activities that enhance AI research.
Amount: Approximately $160,000 annually for funding.
Deadlines: Winter and Summer funding calls open; check website for specifics.
Visit AI Journal
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8. NordForsk Call for Proposals on Responsible AI

Description: NordForsk is launching a call for research proposals focused on promoting the responsible use of AI in the Nordic-Baltic area.
Funding Type: Research Grants
Target Stage: Research-focused projects.
Amount: Not specified, minimum of 11 projects supported.
Eligibility: Open to Nordic and Nordic-Baltic researchers.
Find more at NordForsk

9. Lenovo Evolve Small Initiative Grants

Description: Lenovo provides cash grants and technology packages to aid the growth of small businesses aiming to integrate AI into their operations.
Funding Type: Cash grant and technology package.
Target Stage: Small businesses under 75 employees with revenues under $7.5 million.
Amount: $25,000 cash grant plus a $10,000 AI tech package.
Eligibility: North American businesses (exempting Quebec).
Visit Lenovo Evolve Small

10. Walmart Spark Good Local Grants

Description: Walmart funds community-driven initiatives through direct grants for local non-profits and similar entities based on their service areas.
Funding Type: Grants
Target Stage: Local non-profits, government entities, and educational institutions.
Amount: Between $250 and $5,000.
Eligibility: Must be a 501(c)(3) organization, a government entity, or an educational institution.
Learn more about Walmart Grants

11. AI Specific Grants Through Grant Portals

Description: Various online portals, such as Grant Portal and GrantWatch, aggregate specific grants available for AI startups.
Funding Type: Grant
Target Stage: Early-stage AI startups.
Amount: Ranges from $10,000 to $250,000 depending on the specific grant.
Eligibility: Varies based on individual grant requirements.
Explore Grant Portal and Discover GrantWatch

12. Venture Capital Firms Investing in AI

Description: Numerous venture capital firms target AI startups for investment, offering essential equity funding to support growth.
Funding Type: Equity investment
Target Stage: Seed to growth stage startups.
Amount: Varies significantly by firm.
Key Firms: Norwest Venture Partners, Kleiner Perkins, Sequoia Capital, among others.
Connect with early-stage investors on EarlyNode

13. Microsoft for Startups Program

Description: This initiative offers technical assistance, cloud credits, and access to resources for startups leveraging Microsoft technology in AI.
Funding Type: Access to technology, cloud credits, and support.
Target Stage: Early to growth stage startups.
Amount: Up to $150,000 in Azure credits.
Eligibility: Must be recognized as a qualified startup.
Learn more about Microsoft for Startups

14. Government Initiatives and Funding in Canada

Description: The Canadian federal and provincial governments provide various funding programs that support AI research and commercialization initiatives.
Funding Type: Grants, loans, and tax credits.
Target Stage: Early to growth stage.
Amount: Varies based on the program.
Eligibility: Open to Canadian companies or US companies with business operations in Canada.
Search Canadian Government Programs

15. Innovate UK BridgeAI Programme

Description: The UK government program offers grants to businesses aiming to trial and implement AI technologies across multiple sectors.
Funding Type: Grants
Target Stage: Small businesses in various sectors.
Amount: Variable; total of £7 million across 120 projects.
Eligibility: Focused on small businesses (UK-based).
Learn more at Innovate UK
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FAQ

Q: What are the National Science Foundation (NSF) SBIR/STTR Programs?
A: The NSF's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs provide funding for small businesses and startups to conduct research and development focused on innovative technologies, including AI. Learn more about NSF SBIR/STTR.
Q: How does the AI Grant Accelerator support startups?
A: The AI Grant Accelerator offers funding and resources specifically for early-stage AI-native product startups, providing $250,000 on an uncapped SAFE along with Azure credits. Discover more about AI Grant Accelerator.
Q: What resources does the NVIDIA Inception Program provide?
A: The NVIDIA Inception Program supports AI startups by providing access to technology, GPU credits, and a network of support without any application deadlines. Explore NVIDIA Inception.
Q: What is the Page/Johnson Legacy Scholar Grant?
A: This grant focuses on research proposals that explore the ethics of generative AI in public communication, aimed at academic researchers. Find more information on the Page/Johnson Grant.
Q: What kind of support does the AI Seed Grant Program at Princeton University offer?
A: The AI Seed Grant Program at Princeton provides seed grants for various AI research projects, with funding amounts up to $110,000 based on project scope. Learn about Princeton's AI Seed Grants.
Q: Who can apply for the AI-Informed Discovery and Inquiry Seed Grants at Johns Hopkins University?
A: These seed grants are open to tenure-track and research faculty in the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences for AI-driven proposals, providing up to $25,000 in funding. Find more about Johns Hopkins Seed Grants.
Q: How does the AI Journal (IJCAI) support AI research?
A: The AI Journal offers funding to support the promotion and dissemination of AI research, providing approximately $160,000 annually. More details can be found at IJCAI.
Q: What funding opportunities are available through Lenovo’s Evolve Small Initiative?
A: Lenovo’s initiative provides grants and a technology package aimed at supporting small businesses, specifically those with AI implementation needs. Check out Lenovo Evolve Small Initiative.
Q: What does the Microsoft for Startups Program offer?
A: The Microsoft for Startups Program provides resources, technical support, and Azure credits to AI startups, with potential funding of up to $150,000 in Azure credits. Explore Microsoft for Startups.
Q: Are there any funding opportunities available through Canadian government initiatives?
A: Canadian federal and provincial government programs offer various forms of support, including grants and tax credits for AI research and startups. [Search relevant government websites for more information].

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Sustainability as a Freight Advantage

Freight startups across Europe are proving that eco-conscious choices drive success. From electric fleets to optimized delivery routes, sustainability is becoming a competitive edge. Discover how the top European freight players in 2026 attract partners and customers prioritizing greener logistics while cutting operational costs. Building sustainable freight isn't a trend; it's reshaping what shippers and carriers value most.

Logistics as a Strategic Edge

Shipping isn't just about moving goods; it's a competitive advantage when done right. Europe's most impactful shipping startups pair AI and blockchain to slash delivery times while reducing operational costs. Dive into the strategies these top shipping startups in Europe have mastered in 2026. Whether you're a bootstrapped founder or scaling up, you'll learn how to use smarter logistics as a foundation for customer retention, sustainability, and profitability.

Partnerships Driving Mobility Forward

Collaboration shapes the future of transportation startups in Europe. Leading ventures partner with local governments, logistics firms, and tech providers to scale faster and improve their impact. Dive into how Europe's top transportation startups in 2026 are leveraging strategic alliances to overcome challenges like regulatory hurdles and infrastructure gaps. Female founders, especially, excel in building trust-driven partnerships that boost their ventures' visibility and credibility while staying resource-efficient.

Urban Mobility Niches in Bootstrapped Startups

Female founders in Europe are tapping into micro-mobility trends to redefine local transportation. E-scooters for historical city centers, affordable car-sharing in smaller towns, and eco-friendly solutions in highly regulated urban zones are just the beginning. Learn how these European ride-sharing startups are thriving by focusing on unserved niches and pairing local insights with sustainable practices. Smaller markets and specific needs often create opportunities big players overlook, giving lean teams the chance to lead.

Shared Mobility Meets Profitability

Car-sharing startups are rewriting urban transportation across Europe in 2026 by solving for both access and affordability. Female entrepreneurs are finding profitable niches within this space by prioritizing sustainable partnerships and low-cost operations instead of over-reliance on investor cash. Dive into the top car-sharing startups that matter today and learn how they’re fostering customer loyalty while keeping expenses lean. For bootstrapped founders, their strategies highlight how to compete with precision against better-funded competitors.

Micro-Mobility Niches as Growth Engines

Bike-sharing startups in Europe are no longer just tackling city commutes, they're zeroing in on specific user groups, like suburban riders, tourists, and even corporate employees. Learn how the top transportation startups in Europe for 2026 are unlocking growth by serving underserved niches. By targeting tailored needs, these companies are building loyalty and avoiding the pitfalls of one-size-fits-all models in the competitive urban mobility space.

Micro-Mobility Niches Winning in 2026

Scooter-sharing isn't just about two wheels; it's about solving hyper-local problems. Across Europe, startups are tailoring fleets and pricing models to specific demographics, from university students in remote towns to commuters in tightly packed city centers. Discover how the top scooter-sharing startups in Europe in 2026 are mastering niche markets to achieve durability in this competitive sector. Nailing a niche strategy can make all the difference, especially when you're bootstrapping.

Travel Startups Solving the Sustainability Puzzle

The surge in eco-conscious travelers has created room for businesses that prioritize sustainability without compromising on experience. Across Europe, travel startups are setting themselves apart by reducing carbon footprints and supporting local economies. Dive into how Europe's top travel startups in 2026 are building eco-driven brands that align with the values of modern tourists. From green accommodations to zero-emission tours, discover the unique ways they’re reshaping travel choices for climate-conscious explorers.

Hospitality Meets Sustainability in Europe

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword in the hospitality space. Startups in 2026 are proving that eco-conscious practices can deeply enhance the guest experience while also saving costs. Discover how the most innovative hospitality ventures in Europe are combining smart energy management, waste reduction, and community-driven initiatives to stay ahead. These companies are rewriting old standards while building brands that resonate with eco-savvy travelers.

Sustainable Growth in European Travel Tech

The most exciting booking startups in Europe right now aren't just competing on user-friendly design, they're building greener, smarter solutions from the ground up. Sustainability isn't just a buzzword for these founders; it's a customer demand and a competitive edge. Take a look at how these European booking platforms of 2026 make environmental responsibility a core part of their technology and business model while keeping the booking process effortless.

Bootstrapping Travel Tech Success

Europe's vacation rental startups are making waves through bootstrapped strategies. These founders, many of them women, embrace direct customer engagement and tight cost management to create standout travel experiences. Dive into the stories of vacation rental startups revolutionizing Europe's rental market in 2026, where personalized stays meet smart operational models. It’s a guide for any entrepreneur aiming to scale without massive funding.

Sustainable Growth in Aviation Startups

Female entrepreneurs in Europe are proving that lean strategies and focused mission goals can reshape entire markets. The newest airline startups aren't just surviving, they're thriving while others struggle to adapt. Learn how the top European airline companies redefining 2026 prioritize sustainable innovations and experience-driven travel while operating with less. Whether you're bootstrapping or scaling, their lessons cut across industries.

Tech that Puts Guests First

Hotel owners across Europe are investing in tools that elevate guest experiences while streamlining operations. From contactless check-ins to AI-powered personalization, the most innovative travel and hospitality tech startups in 2026 are focusing on solving specific problems for hotel managers and travelers alike. Female founders, in particular, are leading the charge by identifying gaps in convenience and sustainability, creating products that delight customers and build loyalty.

Driving Change Through Sustainable Tourism

Europe's tourism startups lead the charge for sustainability in 2026. Female entrepreneurs especially excel at aligning eco-conscious practices with profitable models. Learn how the tourism startups reshaping Europe's travel industry prioritize waste reduction, support local economies, and apply technology for personalized eco-travel experiences. These businesses prove how sustainable strategies can set you apart while building customer trust and long-term loyalty.

About the Author

Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the "gamepreneurship" methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond and launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks.
Check out the Complete "How to" Startup Questions Series:

🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 1: Startup Strategy, Funding and Business Fundamentals
🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 2: SEO, Naming, and Competitive Analysis
🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 3: Content, Business Models, and Growth
🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 4: Finding Customers, Funding, and Keywords
🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 5: Backlinks, Funding, Growth, and AI Visibility
🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 6: Launching, Naming, Tools, and Fundraising
🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 7: Costs, Funding, Naming, and Starting Up
🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 8: Tech Startups, Tools, AI, and Keyword Research
🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 9: SEO Tools, Schema Markup, and AI Optimization
🔗 1000 Startup How-To Questions Part 10: 2026 Trends, AI, and Future Opportunities
2025-05-13 07:06 Top 15