Small businesses are the pillars of local economies, yet accessing funding can often feel like navigating a maze. The Square Cornerstone Grant breaks down those barriers by offering $10,000 in cash plus one year of expert mentorship. If you’re a Square seller looking to grow your business with both capital and guidance, here’s everything you need to know.
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What Is the Square Cornerstone Grant?
The Square Cornerstone Grant is a targeted initiative from Square Financial Services and Square Banking to support small businesses who have traditionally been overlooked by standard financing channels.
Four winners will receive:
- A $10,000 grant, directly deposited into their Square Checking account
- One year of financial mentorship from experts including a Top‑200 Forbes CPA and a board-certified financial therapist
- Visibility through Square’s media—including newsletters, social media, and coverage in The Bottom Line
This blend of funding, coaching, and exposure is designed to deliver real, sustainable business growth.
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Who Qualifies for the Square Cornerstone Grant?
To be eligible, your business must meet the following criteria:
- A current Square seller with at least 6 months of transaction history
- Based in the U.S.
- Have fewer than 20 employees
- Annual gross revenue under $2 million, per SBA guidelines
- Applicants must be legal U.S. residents
- Your business must not be in bankruptcy or involved in active litigation
These guidelines help focus the grant on small businesses poised to grow with targeted support.
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What Are the Key Dates?
- Application Deadline: September 30, 2025 by 11:59 PM (your time zone)
- Recipients Announced: Winners will be notified in November 2025, via email and press release
Applications are reviewed by a panel of judges—so make sure your submission is thoughtful and compelling.
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Why Apply for the Square Cornerstone Grant?
Here’s why this grant is a standout opportunity:
- Immediate financial boost of $10,000 to reinvest in your business
- Year-long mentorship to guide financial strategy and emotional resilience
- High visibility across Square’s platforms, amplifying your story and brand
- Built for small business owners, with simple eligibility and no repayment required
This grant isn’t just about funding—it’s a springboard for sustainable growth and community impact.
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How to Apply
To submit your application:
- Confirm you’re a Square seller with at least 6 months of activity.
- Prepare a strong narrative on how $10,000 + mentorship will fuel your growth.
- Visit the official Square Cornerstone Grant application page and apply before September 30, 2025.
- Submit your application and await notification in November.
Ensure your application is clear, authentic, and outlines how this support will move your business forward.
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Championing Small Business Resilience
Square’s Cornerstone Grant reflects a growing recognition that loans aren’t always the answer for small business support—sometimes what matters most is non-dilutive funding combined with expert guidance. This grant empowers sellers to expand, innovate, and thrive with confidence.
Ready to build your business’s future? Apply for the Square Cornerstone Grant by September 30, 2025, and equip yourself with funding, mentorship, and visibility to make your next move forward.