Answers, filed in order.

Entrepreneurs and small businesses worldwide, at any stage from idea to established operation. This cycle is open to international applicants, and eligibility is assessed on priority focus areas, project quality, and expected impact. See our eligibility criteria for the full checklist.

Complete the online form on our Apply page with your details, business information, and supporting documents. You'll get a unique application number as confirmation once it's submitted.

No. Applying to FFSBD is free. We will never ask an applicant to pay a fee to be considered, approved, or to receive funds.

Timelines vary with application volume. You'll receive an email acknowledgment when your application is received, and another when a decision is made.

Working capital, equipment, formalization costs, skills training, and market access activities directly tied to your business. Personal, non-business expenses are not covered.

No. We also support businesses that are not yet formally registered, including through our business formalization program. Tell us your current status honestly — it won't disqualify you.

Please keep one active application per business at a time. If your circumstances change significantly after a decision, you're welcome to apply again.

No. FFSBD grants do not require repayment. Approved grants come with a simple reporting agreement so we can track how funds were used.

FFSBD is a U.S. 501(c)(3) public charity. See our transparency page for details on our status and accountability practices.

Reach us through the Contact page or email enquiries@ffsbd.org directly — we read every message.