How I Used Grant to Scale My Small Business

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How I Used Grant to Scale My Small Business

By Dre Steinberg, Founder of Designed to Conquer

From Vision to Victory: The Start of Designed to Conquer

When I launched Designed to Conquer, my mission was clear: to empower entrepreneurs and creatives to tell their stories through compelling branding and design. I believed that every business, regardless of size or background, deserved a brand that resonated with authenticity and purpose.

Like many entrepreneurs, I started with limited resources and a whole lot of faith.

I created Designed to Conquer during the pandemic after being laid off and separated from my family. I leaned on the affirmation, "I am designed to conquer," to push through. And that affirmation eventually became the name and mission behind my creative studio. I began building a studio that not only delivered design solutions but also fostered community and growth.

Need Help Finding Grants for Your Business? Start Here

Because I know how powerful grant funding can be, I created a resource for other entrepreneurs:

How I Became a HoneyBook Breakthrough Grant Winner

In Fall 2024, I found out about the HoneyBook Breakthrough Grant—a competitive opportunity for marketing and creative professionals like me. It was offering $25,000 in business resources, including:

• $18,000 in cash

• 3 years of HoneyBook Premium

• Hands-on mentorship from HoneyBook Pros

I submitted my application, shared my story, and spoke honestly about the mission of Designed to Conquer. A few months later, I got the news: I was chosen as one of the 10 HoneyBook Breakthrough Grant winners.

That email changed everything.

Use my referral link to get started:
👉 HoneyBook

How the Grant Helped Me Grow My Business

Winning the HoneyBook Breakthrough Grant gave me more than cash—it gave me confidence, clarity, and tools to scale.

With the funds, I was able to:

• Upgrade tech and design software for client projects

• Invest in marketing to build visibility

• Support new services like educational templates, webinars, and branded resources

• Build better systems with HoneyBook to streamline client onboarding and project flow

Most importantly, it gave my business the backing it needed to move from surviving to strategic growth. I started seeing a clear return on investment. Revenue climbed, projects expanded, and new partnerships followed.

This curated list includes 2025 small business grants and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs, creatives, and side hustlers across industries.

Lessons I Learned from Winning a Small Business Grant

I always thought business grants were hard to get—reserved for nonprofits or huge startups with teams of writers. But I learned this:

• ✅ Authenticity wins. Sharing your true story and mission makes your application stand out.

• ✅ Opportunities are out there—you just have to look and be willing to apply.

• ✅ Support changes the game. When someone believes in you, it helps you believe in yourself again.

Final Words of Encouragement for Entrepreneurs

The journey of Designed to Conquer is a testament to what's possible when opportunity meets preparation. The HoneyBook Breakthrough Grant ignited a new chapter of growth and confidence.

If you’re an entrepreneur grinding to grow your business, here’s what I want you to know:

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

You don't need to have it all figured out to be eligible for funding. You just need a clear mission, a strong reason why, and the courage to take that first step.

Whether you’re a freelancer, designer, consultant, or small business owner—you deserve support. And it exists.

Because you are
Designed to Conquer.

If you’re wondering how to apply for business grants, this list is your shortcut. I built it to save you time, increase your chances, and make grant writing less intimidating.

✅ Updated monthly
✅ Includes application deadlines
✅ Features an AI assistant to help write responses
✅ Created by me—with you in mind

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