Stabilization Grants

Stabilization Grants

GRANTS

Stabilization Grants

For small businesses
Jump to: Eligibility Checklist | Application Instructions

Purpose

to support specific projects that will help the business grow or overcome an obstacle that limits its ability to operate at full capacity. Offered twice a year, in spring and fall. Our next cycle opens in Spring 2026.

Funding Priorities

In recognition of historical and systemic disinvestment in some communities, as well as inequitable access to capital experienced by some business owners, TMF prioritizes support to address historical disparities and build wealth in our communities.

< $750,000

Annual revenue

  • Located in Philadelphia
  • Independently owned and operated
  • Operates a publicly-accessible storefront/physical location (food trucks & kiosks are eligible)
  • In compliance with all federal, state, and local taxes (or on an approved payment plan)
  • Has the required federal, state, and local licenses/permits to operate legally
  • Annual revenue between $50,000 – $750,000
  • Has been in operation for a minimum of two years
  • Must be able to demonstrate financial need for a grant
  • Has NOT applied for a Stabilization grant in the last year
  • Has NOT received a Stabilization grant within the last 24 months

*Ineligible businesses include, but are not limited to, those that provide professional services (e.g. medical/therapeutic/counseling, legal, insurance), graphic design, architecture, real estate, child/elder care providers, and non-profit organizations. Additional ineligible businesses can be found on the quick reference sheet. These lists are not comprehensive and TMF reserves the right to deem any application ineligible or deny any application.

How To Apply

  • Click the GET STARTED button below to begin. You’ll see our TMF Stabilization Grant Eligibility Questions. Please answer all the questions accurately.
  • If your business can apply, click Continue to Application.
  • You’ll see an application preview. Click Sign in to start form.
  • You’ll go to a login page on our grant platform, Temelio. Click the Sign Up link to create your account. Click the Send Code button, then use the code in your email to confirm.
  • On Step 1, when asked “Who is this account for?“, please answer “Organization”, since it’s for your business.
  • On Step 2, enter your business name for Entity Name. You can skip all the other questions; we’ll ask again later.
  • On Step 3, you’ll be the Primary Contact, so check that box.
  • On Step 4, click Complete, then Start New Form to apply!
  • We will save your progress. If you need to finish later, just log in using your email and password, and click “Edit Application” on the home screen.
  • To submit your application, make sure all required information is completed and go to the final screen to click the SUBMIT button. You will receive an email confirmation once your application is submitted.
  • If you have questions or need assistance, please email grants@merchantsfund.org


Stay updated

Connect with The Merchants Fund on social media to stay updated on grant cycles, applications, and inspiring grantee stories.


Are you a passionate fan of the small businesses that make Philadelphia home? We want to talk! Apply on LinkedIn.





Small business owners: What have been your successes and challenges this year, and what is your outlook for the future?

The Federal Reserve is seeking your feedback in this year’s Small Business Credit Survey. Join the thousands of for-profit small businesses who complete the survey to voice what you are experiencing. Survey closes November 1; link in bio.

#SmallBusinessCreditSurvey #SmallBusiness #federalreserve

The Federal Reserve is seeking your feedback in this year’s Small Business Credit Survey. Join the thousands of for-profit small businesses who complete the survey to voice what you are experiencing. Survey closes November 1; link in bio.

#SmallBusinessCreditSurvey #SmallBusiness #federalreserve



The Fall Stabilization Grant Cycle is open! Stabilization Grants support projects that will help a business overcome an obstacle limiting its ability to operate at full capacity or help a business to grow. Read more on our website and apply using the link in bio! The application closes September 30th.





We are excited to announce that the Spring cycle of our ‘2024 Stabilization Grant Program’ is now live!

Stabilization Grants provide funding of up to $10,000 to help a business stabilize in the face of adversity, take advantage of an opportunity to grow, or increase profitability.

Visit merchantsfund.org/grants/stabilization for more info and when you’re ready to apply, click the link in our bio! 

#phillysupportphilly #phillymerchants #phillysmallbusiness

Stabilization Grants provide funding of up to $10,000 to help a business stabilize in the face of adversity, take advantage of an opportunity to grow, or increase profitability.

Visit merchantsfund.org/grants/stabilization for more info and when you’re ready to apply, click the link in our bio!

#phillysupportphilly #phillymerchants #phillysmallbusiness



Vientiane Cafe is known to locals as a Lao and Thai fusion restaurant. Established in 2002, it became the first restaurant in the Philadelphia area to offer Lao dishes with a twist. The bistro’s rich history combined with their commitment to utilize their grant to improve their business and the community around them earns them this week’s inspiring grantee spotlight.
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#smallbusiness #phillymerchants #smallbusinessupport #equitableaccess #diverseentrepreneurs 
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Check out @vientianebistro at their West Philly and Kensington locations to see for yourself how this inspiring grantee continues to thrive.