Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in Texas
Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in Texas [2025 Edition]
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- If you need emergency help right now: Call 211 for the statewide helpline or apply for One‑Time TANF cash help through Texas Health and Human Services. One‑Time TANF for relatives pays $1,000 once in a lifetime if you are a relative caring for a child. See the official TANF page for eligibility and how to apply. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Fastest way to get startup coaching at no cost: Book with a Women’s Business Center (WBC) or Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Houston WBC phone 713‑681‑9232; El Paso Women’s Business Border Center phone 915‑566‑4066; UTSA SBDC (San Antonio area) phone 210‑458‑2460; UH SBDC (Houston area) phone 713‑752‑8444; North Texas SBDC phone 214‑860‑5831. (wbea-texas.org, womenbordercenter.com, sasbdc.org, sbdc.uh.edu, ntsbdc.org)
- Looking for small‑business funding now: Start with SBA‑backed loans through Texas CDFIs like LiftFund and PeopleFund, and ask your lender about Texas Small Business Credit Initiative (TSBCI) loans and guarantees. LiftFund phone 888‑215‑2373; find TSBCI lenders on the Governor’s site. (elpaso.liftfund.com, gov.texas.gov)
- Registering a Texas LLC: File online via SOSDirect. The state filing fee is 300∗∗.Salestaxpermitsare∗∗free∗∗,andmostsmallbusinessesowenofranchisetaxifannualrevenueis∗∗300**. Sales tax permits are **free**, and most small businesses owe no franchise tax if annual revenue is **2.47 million or less. (search.sos.texas.gov, comptroller.texas.gov)
- Lowering your household costs while you build: Apply for child care help through Texas Workforce Commission Child Care Services, SNAP food benefits, and the TDHCA energy bill program (CEAP). Check the latest CCS income limits and parent copays for your family size; SNAP gross income limits for a family of four start at $3,380 per month (130% FPL, effective Oct 1, 2024); CEAP is the state’s utility‑bill help. (twc.texas.gov, hhs.texas.gov, tdhca.state.tx.us)
Emergency Section
- Immediate cash for a crisis: One‑Time TANF can provide a one‑time 1,000∗∗paymenttoqualifyingrelativescaringforchildren.RegularTANFmonthlygrantsexistbutaremodest;forexample,caretakercaseswithtwopeopleshowamaximumgrantof∗∗1,000** payment to qualifying relatives caring for children. Regular TANF monthly grants exist but are modest; for example, caretaker cases with two people show a maximum grant of **320 per month, with amounts set by family size. Apply through YourTexasBenefits.com or call 2‑1‑1. Expect initial decisions within about 30 days. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Food today: SNAP eligibility uses federal income standards updated October 1 each year. As of October 1, 2024, a four‑person household’s maximum gross monthly income is 3,380∗∗;maximumSNAPamountsrangeupto∗∗3,380**; maximum SNAP amounts range up to **973 for a family of four. Apply online and ask about expedited service if your income and cash are very low. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Keep the lights on: The Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) helps with electric and gas bills through local nonprofits statewide. Use TDHCA’s CEAP page to locate your local provider and apply. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| What you need | Where to go | How it helps | Costs or limits | Contact/Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Startup coaching and a workable plan | Women’s Business Centers (WBC) and SBDCs | 1:1 advising, classes, help with loan packaging and certifications | No‑cost advising; small fees for some classes | Houston WBC 713‑681‑9232; El Paso WBBC 915‑566‑4066; UTSA SBDC 210‑458‑2460; UH SBDC 713‑752‑8444 |
| Capital you can actually get | SBA Microloan via LiftFund, PeopleFund, others | Up to $50,000 microloans; technical assistance | Rates/terms set by lender; SBA max microloan term 7 years | LiftFund 888‑215‑2373; SBA microloan overview |
| Bigger loans and lines of credit | SBA 7(a), Community Advantage, 504 | 7(a) up to 5,000,000∗∗;CAfocusupto∗∗5,000,000**; CA focus up to **350,000–500,000∗∗;504fixed‑assetfinancingupto∗∗500,000**; 504 fixed‑asset financing up to **5.5 million | SBA guarantees to reduce risk; rates vary | Talk to SBA lenders; use SBA Lender Match |
| State‑backed credit support | Texas Small Business Credit Initiative (TSBCI) | Loan guarantees up to 80%; Capital Access reserve support | Loan sizes from 5,000∗∗upto∗∗5,000** up to **20,000,000 (LGP) | Find approved TSBCI lenders on the Governor’s site |
| Lower day‑to‑day costs | Child Care Services, SNAP, CEAP | Subsidized child care, groceries, utility help | CCS income limit is up to 85% of SMI for your family size; SNAP uses 130% FPL | CCS income/copays (BCY25); SNAP limits; CEAP info |
SBA microloan, 7(a), 504, and CA details are from SBA; TSBCI program limits are from the Governor’s Office; CCS/SNAP/CEAP references are from TWC/HHSC/TDHCA. (sba.gov, gov.texas.gov)
Start Here
- Book one coaching session first: Pick a WBC or SBDC near you and schedule an intake. Bring your idea, current income, debts, child‑care situation, and monthly budget. Your advisor will help map out whether you should start as a sole proprietor now or form an LLC later when revenue is steady. Houston area WBC 713‑681‑9232; El Paso WBBC 915‑566‑4066; UTSA SBDC 210‑458‑2460. (wbea-texas.org, womenbordercenter.com, sasbdc.org)
- Line up capital second: Ask about SBA Microloans (up to 50,000∗∗),7(a)loans(upto∗∗50,000**), 7(a) loans (up to **5,000,000), and Community Advantage options for underserved founders. Microloans are often the fastest for very small amounts and include built‑in technical assistance. (sba.gov)
- If your bank says no, try state‑backed support: Ask your lender whether they participate in Texas’s TSBCI Loan Guarantee or Capital Access Program. TSBCI can back loans with an up to 80% guarantee and supports loans from 5,000∗∗upto∗∗5,000** up to **20,000,000 (LGP), improving approval odds. (gov.texas.gov)
- Cut your biggest costs early: Apply for child care assistance and SNAP right away if you qualify; many single‑parent founders need these to make startup time possible. See CCS income limits and copays for BCY25, and SNAP limits effective October 1, 2024. (twc.texas.gov, hhs.texas.gov)
- Reality check: Expect 2–8 weeks for most microloans once your documents are ready; larger loans can take longer. Certification processes (WOSB/HUB/DBE) often take 60–90 days or more—plan ahead. Processing timelines come from SBA and Texas certification guidance. (sba.gov, comptroller.texas.gov)
Funding You Can Use in 2025
SBA‑Backed Financing Options
- SBA Microloan basics: Loans up to 50,000∗∗;averagemicroloanabout∗∗50,000**; average microloan about **13,000; typical interest ranges 8%–13%; max term 7 years; cannot pay existing debts or buy real estate. Intermediaries (often nonprofits) like LiftFund and PeopleFund handle the underwriting and offer training. How to apply: Work directly with an SBA‑approved microlender and prepare a simple plan, 3–6 months of bank statements, tax returns if available, and a budget. (sba.gov)
- 7(a) loans: The workhorse SBA loan—up to 5,000,000∗∗;SBAguaranteesupto∗∗855,000,000**; SBA guarantees up to **85%** on loans **≤ 150,000 and up to 75% above $150,000; funds can be used for working capital, equipment, real estate, and buying a business. How to apply: Ask your WBC/SBDC for help packaging, then match with lenders via SBA’s Lender Match or a local bank. (sba.gov)
- Community Advantage (CA SBLC): Mission‑driven Community Advantage lenders focus on underserved areas and newer businesses, typically up to 350,000∗∗and,inrecentguidance,upto∗∗350,000** and, in recent guidance, up to **500,000 for qualifying CA SBLCs. Why it matters: Friendlier to very young businesses and thin credit files than many banks. Where to ask: PeopleFund, LiftFund, and other CA lenders in Texas. (sba.gov)
- 504 loans for buildings/equipment: Long‑term, fixed‑rate financing for major assets, often structured 50/40/10 with a bank/CDC/borrower. SBA’s CDC portion may be up to $5.5 million for eligible projects. When to use: Buying commercial real estate, heavy equipment, or renovating space. (sba.gov)
- Example: A Houston single mom hairstylist secures $30,000 via an SBA Microloan through a Texas microlender to finish‑out a salon suite, buy dryers and chairs, and cover the deposit. With training from the WBC, she opens with pre‑booked clients and manageable monthly payments.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your advisor to pivot to TSBCI‑backed loans, smaller “Flash” microloans, or to split your need into phases (e.g., equipment now, working capital later). LiftFund offers quick‑turn “Flash Funds” up to 25,000∗∗;PeopleFundlistsSBAMicroloansupto∗∗25,000**; PeopleFund lists SBA Microloans up to **50,000 and Community Advantage loans up to $250,000. (peoplefund.org)
Texas Small Business Credit Initiative (TSBCI)
- What it is: Texas’s SSBCI‑funded programs that help lenders say “yes” with either a state‑backed loan guarantee (LGP) or a reserve account (CAP). Loan sizes: 5,000∗∗to∗∗5,000** to **5,000,000 under CAP; 5,000∗∗to∗∗5,000** to **20,000,000 under LGP. Guarantee: Up to 80% of unpaid principal on enrolled loans. Where to apply: Through approved banks/CDFIs listed on the Governor’s TSBCI page. Timeline: Depends on lender; state enrollment typically occurs on the lender side. (gov.texas.gov)
- Example: A Dallas childcare owner needs $400,000 to expand. Her bank participates in TSBCI’s Loan Guarantee Program, which covers up to 80% of risk, so the bank approves her loan at better terms than a conventional loan quoted earlier. (gov.texas.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Try another TSBCI‑approved lender; ask about SBA 7(a) Small loans (≤ $500,000) and collateral support options; get packaging help from your SBDC. (prod.sba.gov)
Federal R&D Grants Worth Knowing (If You Have a Tech or Innovative Idea)
- SBIR/STTR: Competitive federal grants for research‑based businesses. Typical posted ranges show Phase I awards around 50,000–50,000–275,000 for 6–12 months and Phase II around 400,000–400,000–1.8 million over ~24 months, though exact caps and amounts vary by agency and year. Where to start: Search open topics at SBIR.gov and read the agency solicitation. Plan on: 3–6 months from application to award, if selected. (sbir.gov)
- How to apply: Most SBIR agencies require registration in SAM.gov for a Unique Entity ID (UEI) and Grants.gov for submission. Registration is free but can take 7–10 business days or longer—start now. (sam.gov, grants.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider teaming with a university for STTR, or pursue local accelerator grants and pitch competitions through your city’s small‑business office and WBC/SBDC network (cycles vary; ask your advisor).
The Best Texas Lenders for Very Small Businesses
- LiftFund: Nonprofit CDFI serving Texas; offers microloans and larger SBA‑backed options, plus quick “Flash Funds” up to $25,000 for fast needs. Phone 888‑215‑2373. (elpaso.liftfund.com, peoplefund.org)
- PeopleFund: Texas CDFI offering SBA Microloans up to 50,000∗∗,CommunityAdvantageloansupto∗∗50,000**, Community Advantage loans up to **250,000, and larger SBA‑backed options. Provides training and mentorship. Start at their “Get a Loan” page. (peoplefund.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SBDC/WBC to connect you to other CDFIs (DreamSpring, BCL of Texas) or banks active with SBA 7(a) in your area. Keep your package tight: valid ID, proof of Texas address, last two tax returns if available, last three months of statements, equipment quotes, lease draft, and a one‑page plan with projected revenue and expenses.
Certifications That Open Doors to Contracts
- Women‑Owned Small Business (WOSB/EDWOSB): Federal certification for women‑owned firms; apply free in MySBA Certifications. EDWOSB adds personal financial limits (e.g., personal net worth under $850,000)—see official criteria. Why it matters: The federal goal is 5% of prime contracting to WOSBs; agencies set aside work specifically for certified firms. How to apply: Gather proof of ownership/control, citizenship, and business docs, then apply via MySBA Certifications; WBCs can help. Phone for WOSB helpdesk 866‑443‑4110. (sba.gov)
- Texas HUB certification: Free state certification for woman‑, minority‑, and service‑disabled veteran‑owned firms headquartered in Texas. Processing can take up to 90 business days once your complete file is in. Why it matters: State agencies and universities have HUB goals and must show good‑faith effort to include HUBs. Where to start: Apply online via the Statewide HUB System; for procurement notices ≥ 25,000∗∗,agenciesmustpostonESBDandsolicitCMBLvendors.∗∗CMBLregistration∗∗costs∗∗25,000**, agencies must post on ESBD and solicit CMBL vendors. **CMBL registration** costs **70 per year and helps agencies find you. HUB help line 888‑863‑5881; CMBL help desk 512‑463‑3459. (comptroller.texas.gov)
- TxDOT DBE/TUCP: For highway/airport‑related federal projects, the Texas Unified Certification Program (TUCP) provides a one‑stop DBE certification recognized by TxDOT and regional partners. Fees: None. How to apply: Submit via TxDOT’s DMS portal with the personal net worth form and supporting business docs. TxDOT Civil Rights Division phone 512‑416‑4700. (txdot.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If timelines are tight, register on the Centralized Master Bidders List (CMBL) now so you can still receive bid notices while your HUB/DBE application is pending. The fee is $70 per year. (comptroller.texas.gov)
Set Up Your Business the Right Way
- Choose the structure: Many founders start as sole proprietors to test, then switch to an LLC for liability protection and partnerships. Talk with your SBDC/WBC before filing.
- Form an LLC: File the Certificate of Formation (Form 205) online at SOSDirect. State fee 300∗∗.Expeditedprocessingadds∗∗300**. Expedited processing adds **25. (search.sos.texas.gov, sos.texas.gov)
- Get your EIN: Free from the IRS online (takes minutes). Use it to open a business bank account.
- Texas sales tax permit: Many service and product businesses need one. Apply online with the Texas Comptroller. There is no fee for the permit; the state tax rate is 6.25%, and local jurisdictions can add up to 2% for a maximum 8.25%. (comptroller.texas.gov)
- Franchise tax: For 2024 and 2025 reports, no franchise tax is due if total revenue is ≤ $2,470,000. Entities at or below this threshold don’t even file a No Tax Due Report anymore, but still file a Public Information or Ownership Information Report. (comptroller.texas.gov)
- DBA/assumed name: If you need a trade name, file an assumed name certificate. State filing is $25 (some sole proprietors must file at the county). (sos.texas.gov)
- Permits: Many businesses don’t need a state license, but check your city/county and industry rules. Your SBDC can help you identify any health, child‑care, or professional licensing requirements quickly.
Lower Your Household Costs While You Build
- Child care assistance: Texas Child Care Services (TWC) helps pay child care so you can work or go to school or training. Eligibility is based on your board area and income up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI) for your family size. Copays vary. Action: Use the BCY25 Income Limits and Copay chart and apply through your local Workforce Solutions office. Waitlists can be long in big metros; ask about priority categories. (twc.texas.gov)
- SNAP: As of October 1, 2024, gross monthly income limits for most households are 1,632∗∗(1person),∗∗1,632** (1 person), **2,215 (2), 2,798∗∗(3),∗∗2,798** (3), **3,380 (4). Maximum monthly benefits are 291∗∗,∗∗291**, **535, 766∗∗,∗∗766**, **973 for households of 1–4. Apply online; ask about expedited service if you have very little cash. (hhs.texas.gov)
- EITC at tax time: For tax year 2024 (returns filed in 2025), the Earned Income Tax Credit can be up to 7,830∗∗withthreeormorequalifyingchildren.Single/headofhouseholdincomecapsinclude∗∗7,830** with three or more qualifying children. Single/head of household income caps include **49,084 (one child), 55,768∗∗(two),∗∗55,768** (two), **59,899 (three+). Use IRS’s EITC Assistant or a free tax prep site. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Energy bills: Apply for CEAP through your local subrecipient to get help with electric and gas bills. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for local rent and utility funds, charity help (Catholic Charities, Salvation Army), and county assistance. If your CCS waitlist is long, ask your WBC/SBDC to help you model part‑time hours, weekend appointments, or mobile services to reduce care hours while you wait.
Texas Startup Filings & Taxes Quick Facts
| Topic | Key points | Source |
|---|---|---|
| LLC filing | Certificate of Formation (Form 205) fee 300∗∗;expeditedadd∗∗300**; expedited add **25 | Texas SOS |
| Sales tax permit | Free; apply online; state 6.25% + local up to 2% (max 8.25%) | Texas Comptroller |
| Franchise tax | No tax due at ≤ $2.47 million revenue for 2024–2025; file information report only | Texas Comptroller |
| DBA/assumed name | State filing $25; some sole props file at county | Texas SOS |
(search.sos.texas.gov, sos.texas.gov, comptroller.texas.gov)
Local Organizations and Contacts
| Region | Resource | What they do | How to contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston metro | SBA Houston District Office | SBA programs, lender connections, events | 713‑773‑6500; appointments available |
| Houston | Alliance Women’s Business Center (WBEA) | No‑cost advising, classes, capital readiness | 713‑681‑9232 |
| Houston region | UH SBDC Network | Advising, workshops, APEX Accelerator (procurement) | 713‑752‑8444 |
| San Antonio | SBA San Antonio District Office | SBA capital & contracting guidance | 210‑403‑5900 |
| San Antonio region | UTSA SBDC | No‑cost advising, training | 210‑458‑2460 |
| Statewide | LiftFund (CDFI) | Microloans and small business loans; WBC in SA/DFW | 888‑215‑2373 |
| El Paso | Women’s Business Border Center | Advising and training (bilingual) | 915‑566‑4066 |
| DFW/North TX | SBA Dallas–Fort Worth District Office | SBA programs and lenders | 817‑684‑5500 |
| DFW | North Texas SBDC | Advising and training | 214‑860‑5831 |
| Rio Grande Valley | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District | SBA services in Valley/Coastal Bend | 956‑427‑8533 |
SBA district office contacts and WBC/SBDC details from official pages. (sba.gov, wbea-texas.org, sbdc.uh.edu, sasbdc.org, elpaso.liftfund.com, womenbordercenter.com, ntsbdc.org)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your WBC/SBDC to flag lenders and mentors experienced with LGBTQ+ founders. For federal contracting, WOSB certification is gender‑based and available to women owners who meet SBA criteria. For local support, check with city equality offices and SCORE chapters for inclusive mentoring and supplier diversity contacts. (sba.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: TWC’s Vocational Rehabilitation can help with workplace or business accommodations; SBDCs can help you design accessible operations. When applying for loans, clearly list any assistive equipment costs in your project budget. (Your SBDC can connect you with VR Business Relations.)
- Veteran single mothers: Use SBA’s Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC) via your SBA district office, and ask about set‑asides you can combine with WOSB. Your Texas HUB status may also apply if you are a service‑disabled veteran and meet HUB qualifications. (prod.sba.gov, comptroller.texas.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: WBCs in El Paso and Houston offer bilingual services. For federal programs requiring citizenship (e.g., WOSB), check criteria early. For other lending (CDFIs), legal presence and ITIN options vary—ask the lender.
- Tribal‑specific resources: If you are a tribal citizen, your enterprise may qualify for federal Indian Country programs and SBA contracting preferences where applicable; your SBDC can connect you to regional contacts.
- Rural single moms with limited access: TSBCI lenders and SBA microlenders work statewide; many accept online applications. Ask your SBDC for help with e‑commerce, mobile services, and USDA Rural programs such as RMAP through local intermediaries (availability varies).
- Single fathers: All services listed here are gender‑inclusive unless explicitly limited by law. WBCs serve all, with a focus on advancing women entrepreneurs; SBDCs serve everyone.
- Language access: SBA and WBCs provide services in multiple languages. Ask for interpretation when scheduling; it’s common and free for core services. (sba.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping personal budgeting: Lenders will look at your personal cash flow. Build a three‑month survival budget and include child care costs.
- Filing the wrong thing at the wrong time: Many founders rush to form an LLC before testing demand. Talk to an advisor; sometimes a DBA plus a permit is enough to start.
- Applying for “free grants” that don’t exist: Most real, recurring small‑business grants are competitive and tied to R&D or local projects. Verify on Grants.gov and city sites. (grants.gov)
- Ignoring certifications: If you sell to government or universities, WOSB/HUB/DBE opens doors—start early; reviews can take 60–90 days or more. (comptroller.texas.gov)
- Not checking state thresholds: Many Texas businesses owe no franchise tax under $2.47 million revenue, but you still must file required information reports. (comptroller.texas.gov)
Application Checklist
- Identity and business basics: Government ID, SSN/ITIN, Texas address, EIN.
- Business plan essentials: One‑page summary, startup costs, 12‑month cash flow, pricing, marketing plan.
- Financial documents: Last two years of personal tax returns (if filed), last three months of bank statements, any prior business returns, list of debts.
- Proof of demand: Lease draft or letter of intent, equipment quotes, pre‑orders or contracts, website or social media with initial traction.
- Certifications and registrations: WOSB documentation (if pursuing), SAM.gov UEI (free), Grants.gov registration (free), CMBL registration $70 if targeting state work. (sam.gov, grants.gov, comptroller.texas.gov)
Timelines You Can Expect
- EIN and sales tax permit: Same day to a few days. (comptroller.texas.gov)
- LLC filing: Often same‑day evidence via SOSDirect; allow more time if mailing; optional expedite $25. (sos.texas.gov)
- SBA microloan: Commonly 2–6 weeks once your package is ready (varies by lender). (sba.gov)
- WOSB/HUB/DBE: Plan for 60–90 days or more depending on completeness and queue. (comptroller.texas.gov, txdot.gov)
State Benefits & Support Programs at a Glance
| Program | Key numbers (2024–2025) | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP food benefits | Gross monthly income limits: 1 person 1,632∗∗,2∗∗1,632**, 2 **2,215, 3 2,798∗∗,4∗∗2,798**, 4 **3,380. Max monthly SNAP: 1 291∗∗,2∗∗291**, 2 **535, 3 766∗∗,4∗∗766**, 4 **973. | YourTexasBenefits.com |
| TANF | One‑Time TANF for relatives: 1,000∗∗paymentonceinalifetime;monthlyTANFgrantamountsvarybyfamilysize(e.g.,two‑personcaretakercasemax∗∗1,000** payment once in a lifetime; monthly TANF grant amounts vary by family size (e.g., two‑person caretaker case max **320). | YourTexasBenefits.com |
| Child Care Services (CCS) | Eligibility up to 85% SMI (varies by family size); BCY25 income limits and copays posted by TWC; local waitlists common. | Workforce Solutions board in your area |
| CEAP utility help | Energy bill help via local providers across all 254 counties. | TDHCA CEAP page |
(hhs.texas.gov, twc.texas.gov, tdhca.state.tx.us)
Quick “Do This Now” Plan
- Call or email one advisor today: Houston WBC 713‑681‑9232; UTSA SBDC 210‑458‑2460; pick one near you. (wbea-texas.org, sasbdc.org)
- Gather documents: ID, last returns, bank statements, a basic budget with child care included.
- Apply for supports: CCS, SNAP, and CEAP if you’re eligible, so you stabilize cash flow while launching. (twc.texas.gov, hhs.texas.gov, tdhca.state.tx.us)
- Start loan conversations: LiftFund 888‑215‑2373; PeopleFund online intake. Ask specifically about SBA Microloans and TSBCI‑backed loans. (elpaso.liftfund.com, gov.texas.gov)
What We Saw Missing in Other Guides and How This One Fills the Gaps
- Bold, exact numbers: We included 2024–2025 income and benefit figures for SNAP and TANF and current Texas tax thresholds, with direct official sources linked and cited.
- State‑specific capital: Many lists miss TSBCI—Texas’s lender‑facing credit support that can unlock approvals. We explain amounts, guarantees, and where to find participating lenders. (gov.texas.gov)
- Actionable contacts: Direct phone numbers for SBA district offices, WBCs, SBDCs, and CDFIs so you can book help today. (sba.gov, sbdc.uh.edu, sasbdc.org, elpaso.liftfund.com)
- Clear filing costs and Texas tax thresholds: LLC fee 300∗∗;salestaxpermit∗∗free∗∗;franchiseno‑tax‑duethreshold∗∗300**; sales tax permit **free**; franchise no‑tax‑due threshold **2.47 million. (search.sos.texas.gov, comptroller.texas.gov)
Resources by Region
| Area | Startup help | Capital & contracting |
|---|---|---|
| Houston & Gulf Coast | Houston WBC, UH SBDC, SBA Houston | SBA lenders; HUB outreach; ESBD bid search |
| San Antonio & Hill Country | UTSA SBDC, SBA San Antonio | LiftFund, local banks with SBA; HUB and TxDOT DBE outreach |
| DFW & North Texas | North Texas SBDC, SBA DFW | PeopleFund, banks with TSBCI; NCTCOG/TxDOT DBE via TUCP |
| El Paso & Border | Women’s Business Border Center, SBA LRGV | CDFIs active in the region; TUCP DBE via City of El Paso/TxDOT |
See the contacts table above for phone numbers and SBA pages. (sba.gov, ntsbdc.org)
10 Texas‑Specific FAQs
- What is the fastest funding for a very small start?
Answer: SBA Microloan through a Texas microlender (often decision in a few weeks) or a small TSBCI‑backed bank loan if your bank participates. Start with LiftFund 888‑215‑2373 or PeopleFund. (sba.gov, gov.texas.gov) - Do real “free grants” exist for for‑profit startups?
Answer: Rarely. Most ongoing grants are competitive (SBIR/STTR for R&D) or occasional city programs with tight windows. Always verify on Grants.gov. (grants.gov) - How much can I borrow with SBA loans?
Answer: 7(a) up to 5,000,000∗∗(SBAguaranteesupto∗∗855,000,000** (SBA guarantees up to **85%** on small loans); 504 up to **5.5 million for SBA’s CDC portion; Microloan up to $50,000. (sba.gov) - What is TSBCI and why should I care?
Answer: It’s Texas’s SSBCI‑funded program that helps lenders approve your loan with guarantees up to 80% and CAP reserves; loan sizes can go from 5,000∗∗to∗∗5,000** to **20,000,000 under LGP. Ask your bank if they’re on the approved list. (gov.texas.gov) - How much does it cost to file an LLC in Texas?
Answer: 300∗∗viaSOSDirect;expeditedprocessingadds∗∗300** via SOSDirect; expedited processing adds **25. (search.sos.texas.gov, sos.texas.gov) - Do I need a sales tax permit and does it cost money?
Answer: If you sell taxable goods/services in Texas, get a permit. It’s free. State rate is 6.25% plus local up to 2%. (comptroller.texas.gov) - I’m under the franchise tax limit—do I still file?
Answer: At ≤ $2.47 million revenue, you owe no tax and no longer file the No Tax Due Report, but you must file an information report. (comptroller.texas.gov) - How do I get WOSB certified?
Answer: Apply free at MySBA Certifications; confirm you meet ownership/control rules; EDWOSB adds financial thresholds. Get help from a WBC. (sba.gov) - Is there a fee for Texas HUB certification?
Answer: No. HUB is free; CMBL registration to receive state bid notices is $70 per year. (comptroller.texas.gov) - How do I start applying for federal grants?
Answer: Register in SAM.gov to get your UEI (free) and then in Grants.gov (free). Registration can take 7–10 business days or more, so start early. (sam.gov, grants.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Texas agencies, SBA, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits. It follows our research standards—primary sources, cross‑verification, link archiving, and prompt corrections—outlined in our Editorial Policy.
- Editorial standards: See the ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy for our research methodology, review cycle, and accuracy commitments. (sba.gov)
- Verification window: Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
- How to report issues: Email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and correct verified errors quickly per our policy.
Disclaimer
- Program details change: Benefits, limits, and rules change. Always confirm amounts, deadlines, and forms with the linked agency sources before applying.
- No legal or tax advice: This guide is for general information. For legal, tax, or accounting decisions, talk with a qualified professional.
- Site and data security: Use only official agency portals linked here when applying. Keep your documents secure; avoid sharing sensitive information over unverified channels.
- Independence: ASingleMother.org is not affiliated with any government agency and does not guarantee individual outcomes; we provide verified guidance and direct you to official sources.
Source Notes
- SBA loan program details and limits, microloan terms, WBC/SBDC resources, and WOSB rules are from SBA. TSBCI amounts and lender lists are from the Texas Governor’s Office. Texas filing fees, sales tax, and franchise thresholds are from the Secretary of State and Comptroller. Texas benefits limits are from HHSC/TWC/TDHCA. See citations throughout and the linked official pages for full details. (sba.gov, gov.texas.gov, search.sos.texas.gov, comptroller.texas.gov, hhs.texas.gov, twc.texas.gov, tdhca.state.tx.us)
Endnotes on timelines and realities
- Typical processing times depend on complete applications; build in buffer time and keep copies of everything. For certifications, answer document requests fast to avoid resets. For loans, respond to lender questions within 48 hours when possible—delays stretch timelines.
- Plan B mindset: If one program or lender doesn’t fit, try another. Texas has multiple SBA district offices and a deep bench of resource partners—use them early. (sba.gov)
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Note on format and links
- All dollar amounts, phone numbers, and deadlines are bolded for quick scanning. All links go to official government or established nonprofit sources. If a link breaks, search the agency site by the program name provided.
🏛️More Texas Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Texas
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
