Small business owners across the United States are poised for a unique opportunity as Intuit Inc. expands its commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs through its newly launched Small Business Hero Program. This initiative not only recognizes outstanding small businesses but also provides them with essential financial resources to fuel their growth.
At the recent fourth annual Intuit QuickBooks and Mailchimp Small Business Hero Day, Intuit celebrated the contributions of three exemplary small businesses: BJ’s Nevada BBQ, the Homeless Garden Project, and Perry’s Joint. Each received a $20,000 grant, which they agreed to use to further their positive impact within their communities. The awards were presented by WNBA League MVP Lisa Leslie, adding a touch of celebrity recognition to this important event.
Emma Rodgers, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Intuit, remarked, “The Intuit QuickBooks and Mailchimp Small Business Hero Program will help provide a greater support system for small businesses across the country and the communities they serve." She added that these businesses are fundamental to the economy and that the expansion of the program significantly increases the support available for these crucial community players.
Starting this quarter, the program will spotlight three new businesses every three months, tripling the number of recipients who will benefit from grants and resources each year. This transition to a year-round initiative aligns with the insights from a 2025 survey conducted by Intuit, which indicated that 90% of respondents felt small businesses significantly contribute to their sense of community.
For small business owners looking to take advantage of this program, the process appears straightforward. Eligible businesses can nominate themselves or be nominated by others via the Intuit website, where details about the submissions and eligibility criteria can be found. This presents a practical opportunity for businesses dedicated to community involvement, especially those making waves in local initiatives.
Real-world applications of the grant funding are evident in the stories of the recent winners. For instance, BJ’s Nevada BBQ, led by chef Jay Rathmann, plans to channel the grant into educational scholarships and culinary programs for local students. "This grant is going to help me put money towards things that are close to our heart," Rathmann said, emphasizing how community impact is a core business value.
Similarly, the Homeless Garden Project has established a model for addressing homelessness through job training and community engagement. Executive Director Darrie Ganzhorn highlighted the importance of community support in their mission, stating, "It feels really good to be honored and to be seen in the context of a small business that is attempting to have more impact on their community."
Perry’s Joint, a longstanding fixture in Southern California, also plans to use the grant to expand job opportunities for local youth and continue its charitable initiatives. Owner Perry Bennett expressed gratitude, noting, "The $20,000 grant means so much, especially as a small business."
While the funding and recognition this program offers is advantageous, potential challenges should also be considered. Small business owners should be prepared for the competitive nature of grant applications. Crafting a compelling narrative about their community impact and how they plan to use the grant money will be essential. Documentation of previous efforts and measurable outcomes might enhance their proposals.
Moreover, as businesses receive grants, they will likely face expectations to achieve visible results both for themselves and their communities. It’s crucial for recipients to set clear goals and assess the impact of their funding to maintain credibility and continue receiving support in the future.
Overall, the Intuit QuickBooks and Mailchimp Small Business Hero Program exemplifies a growing recognition of small businesses as vital community players. With expanded grant opportunities, dedicated entrepreneurs have the chance to further their missions and enhance their economic footprint. Small business owners interested in this initiative can find more details and submit nominations by visiting Intuit’s official site. This program not only celebrates community-focused businesses but also addresses funding and resource gaps that many small enterprises face today.
Image Via Intuit
