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Exploring how to get a grant for a pest control business? Grants can be a great way to get some financial assistance and get your business up and running.
Starting (or even growing) a pest control business takes more than just know-how—it requires financial backing. While loans and personal savings are common funding routes, grants offer an excellent alternative because they don’t require repayment.
But how do you land a grant for your pest control business?
Here's a practical guide to help you through the process and show you how to get a grant for a pest control business.
Before we jump into how to get a grant for a pest control business, it’s important to understand what grants are and why they matter.
Grants are essentially free money given by the government, companies, or other groups. Unlike loans, you never have to pay grants back. Honestly, grants can be a game changer to get a pest control up and running or even to the next level.
When it comes down to how to get a grant for pest control, keep in mind these two things:
However, it’s important to be cautious when applying for or accepting grants. There are some scams out there that you don’t want to get mixed up in.
So, how do you tell if a grant is legitimate? Here are a few ways:
Several grant programs work well for pest control companies. As always, do your due diligence when applying for any grants:
Now, let’s take a look at your options:
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) gives grants through its Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program. These grants support businesses that use methods that are better for the environment.
The EPA actually gave out $780,000 in 2022 to groups that used safer pest control methods. If you’re planning on taking a “green” angle with your company, you’ve got a good chance with these grants.
Most states have their own pest control grant programs. For example, California offers grants from $50,000 to $400,000 for businesses using effective pest management practices.
Be sure to check your state's environmental or agriculture department to find similar grants. For example, California's Department of Pesticide Regulation offers two annual grant opportunities.
While the Small Business Administration (SBA) doesn't give out grants for growing businesses directly, it can help you find other grant options.
Look for small business grants from private companies that might work for pest control businesses, especially those focused on green practices.
Also, check out the free business counseling, training, and mentorship programs, which are funded by the SBA—Small Business Development Centers and SCORE.
If your pest control business is in a rural area, you might qualify for USDA rural business grants. These grants help support businesses in small towns and farming areas.
Does your pest control business use new techniques or technology? The Small Business Innovation Research Program supports businesses exploring new ideas through grants.
There are numerous private grant funds and federal/state programs aimed at supporting minority-owned businesses.
However, keep in mind that many grants for minority-owned businesses require you to become a certified MBE (i.e., Minority Business Enterprise).
Take a look at a few opportunities minorities have for grants for starting a pest control business:
In addition to federally funded programs, states also have programs aimed at helping minority businesses.
Every year, the EDA (i.e., U.S. Economic Development Administration) creates a list of minority grants.
These are a few of the main grants for new immigrants:
For former military members, resources like the Veteran Entrepreneur Portal can help veterans find the funding to establish veteran-owned small businesses, like a pest control company.
Plus, veterans can access a wide variety of grants:
Additionally, veterans can apply for Hivers and Strivers, an angel investment group that provides early-stage business financing for veterans.
Women entrepreneurs have access to a wide variety of grants for starting a pest control business, such as:
In addition, women of color also have a wide selection of grants to choose from:
Also, there are a few grants for entrepreneurs who are moms:
If you're a younger entrepreneur under age 25-35, you may qualify for grant programs designed to support and fund business ideas from students, recent grads, and young founders.
These small business grants are available to a wider net of entrepreneurs and are worth applying for:
Finding the right grants means knowing where to look. Here are the best places to start:
Grants.gov lists all federal grants. Search for "pest control," "pest management," or "integrated pest management" to find good matches.
Also, the EDA has a robust list of grant resources worth exploring.
Visit your state's environmental or agriculture department websites. Many states have special grant programs for pest control businesses.
Pest management associations often share grant opportunities with members. Joining these groups gives you access to this valuable information.
Online services gather grant opportunities from many sources. These can help you sort through thousands of options to find ones that fit your pest control business.
One of the most common grant listing websites is GrantWatch.com.
Take a look at a few additional funding options for your pest control business that are outside of grants:
Crowdfunding is another way you can access additional funds for your business.
Take a look at a few crowdfunding opportunities you can explore:
In order to be successful in crowdfunding, you’ll need to provide a compelling pitch and offer rewards to backers.
If you can’t secure enough grants or adequate crowdfunding, then you might consider taking on a small business loan.
Banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions offer small business loans if you have a:
The SBA (i.e., U.S. Small Business Administration) is one of the best resources to connect you with reputable lenders who can provide funds for your pest control business.
Getting approved for a grant can be tough. Here’s how you can make your application stand out:
Explain your business goals, who your clients are, what services you offer, and how you'll use the grant money. A clear business plan shows your business has potential.
Pro Tip! Include pricing, marketing strategy, and projections in your business plan to set it apart from competing businesses. Plus, track expenses and income through pest control software so you can refer to your detailed reporting in your business plan.
Instant invoicing
Better scheduling
Manage your clients and employees all in one system
Many grants favor businesses that care about the environment. Highlight how your pest control methods help protect nature.
Explain how your pest control business benefits local people through health protection, jobs, or environmental improvement.
Grants have specific requirements. Make sure you qualify before applying and send in all the requested paperwork correctly. A second set of eyes can make a big difference here, so be sure to have a business partner double-check everything.
After submitting your application, you can always follow up. Remember, a lot of these organizations have a busy staff and lots of gatekeepers. Be patient, polite, and respectful.
Learning how to get a grant for a pest control business can help you get your business off the ground as well as open up all sorts of new opportunities.
Keep in mind:
Ready to take your pest control business to the next level? Start by finding which grant types can work with your pest control business. Make sure you’ve double-checked all the requirements and filled everything out correctly.
Remember, not every grant application is going to be a home run. If you don’t get the grant, keep at it and be patient.
Related: 5 Emerging Pest Control Industry Trends
Published on 5/13/25 at 9:30AM
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