Introduction

Securing funding is a significant challenge for small business owners in Orange County. Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding operations, or recovering from financial setbacks, accessing the right funding is crucial.

Orange County offers a range of grants, loans, and alternative financing options tailored to small businesses. In this guide, we’ll explore the best funding sources available in 2025 and how you can apply for them.

1. Small Business Grants in Orange County

Grants provide funding that you don’t have to repay, but they are often competitive and come with specific eligibility requirements.

A. Local Grants for Orange County Businesses

1. City-Specific Business Grants

Many cities within Orange County offer grants to encourage local business growth. Here are a few to explore:

• Anaheim Small Business Assistance Program – Focused on minority- and women-owned businesses. https://www.anaheim.net/5652/Small-Business-Assistance-Program

• Santa Ana Microbusiness Grant Program – Grants for businesses with fewer than 5 employees. https://www.santa-ana.org/covid19/businesses-and-employees/grants/

• Irvine Business Recovery Program – Grants for businesses affected by economic downturns. https://www.cityofirvine.org/economic-development/business-recovery-grant-program

Pro Tip: Visit your city’s official economic development website to find local grant opportunities.

B. State & National Grant Programs

1. California Dream Fund

• Offers up to $10,000 in startup grants for new businesses.

• Focuses on minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses.

• Requires participation in a small business training program.

Note: As of the latest update, the California Dream Fund has concluded its initial rounds. For the most current information and potential future opportunities, please visit the official website: https://calosba.ca.gov/funding-grants-incentives/california-dream-fund-program/

Need help managing grant finances? Contact Key Forecasts for expert bookkeeping and financial planning.

2. Small Business Loans in Orange County

If you need larger funding amounts or working capital, small business loans are a viable option. Here are the best OC-based and statewide loan programs:

A. Local Loan Programs

1. OC-based Banks & Credit Unions

Many banks and credit unions in Orange County offer competitive small business loans. Here are some top lenders:

• Orange County’s Credit Union – Small Business Lines of Credit. https://www.orangecountyscu.org/products/business-services/business-lending/

• Bank of California – SBA-backed loans and term loans.

• California Coast Credit Union – Business startup and expansion loans.

2. City-Run Small Business Loan Programs

• Anaheim Business Loan Program – Low-interest loans for startups and expansions.

• Santa Ana Small Business Assistance Program – Loans up to $50,000 for local businesses.

B. State & Federal Loan Programs

1. California Small Business Loan Guarantee Program

• Helps small businesses secure loans from private lenders.

• Provides loan guarantees up to 80% of the loan amount.

For more information, visit: https://www.ibank.ca.gov/small-business/

2. SBA 7(a) & 504 Loans

• SBA 7(a) Loan – Best for working capital, equipment purchases, and refinancing.

• SBA 504 Loan – Designed for real estate and major fixed asset purchases.

• Local SBA lenders: Wells Fargo OC, U.S. Bank Irvine, and CDC Small Business Finance. https://cdcloans.com/locations/orange-county/

Need expert financial guidance for loan applications? Key Forecasts can help.

3. Alternative Funding Sources for OC Businesses

If traditional grants or loans aren’t a fit, consider these alternative funding options:

1. Angel Investors & Venture Capital

Orange County has a growing startup ecosystem, and several investment firms focus on early-stage businesses:

• Tech Coast Angels – Orange County – Invests in local startups. https://www.techcoastangels.com/

• OCTANe Capital & Growth Fund – Focuses on tech and medtech companies. https://octaneoc.org/

2. Crowdfunding Platforms

If you have a great product or idea, crowdfunding can help you raise funds from individual backers:

• Kickstarter – Best for product-based businesses. https://www.kickstarter.com

• Indiegogo – Ideal for startups and creative businesses. https://www.indiegogo.com

• Kiva – Provides 0% interest microloans for small businesses. https://www.kiva.org/borrow

3. Revenue-Based Financing & Business Credit Lines

• Lendistry – Offers flexible funding based on monthly revenue. https://lendistry.com/

• American Express Business Credit Line – Good for ongoing working capital needs. https://www.americanexpress.com/us/business/credit-cards/

4. How to Prepare for Small Business Funding Applications

Before applying for grants or loans, ensure your business is financially ready:

• Organized Financial Statements – Banks and grant providers will request financial records.

• Business Plan – Clearly outline your revenue model and financial projections.

• Credit Score Check – Higher business credit scores improve loan eligibility.

• Bookkeeping & Accounting Setup – Ensure accurate financial tracking.

Need assistance preparing your finances for funding applications? Key Forecasts can help.

Phone: 562-643-7435