Square’s Cornerstone Grant Program: A Game-Changer for Small Businesses

In a bold move to uplift small businesses, Square has launched its Cornerstone Grant Program—a multifaceted initiative that goes beyond financial aid to offer mentorship, technical assistance, and mental health support. For entrepreneurs navigating the challenges of growth and sustainability, this program could be the lifeline they’ve been waiting for.

Here's the Grant Application.

What’s in the Grant?

Selected Square sellers will receive:

• $10,000 in funding—a “right-sized” investment that Square says can be transformative.

• CPA support to help manage finances and plan for growth.

• Financial therapy sessions with board-certified therapists, acknowledging the emotional toll of entrepreneurship.

• Business technical assistance from the Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council.

• Access to nonprofit resources and networking opportunities to foster long-term success.

Adam Turnbull, Square’s Head of Banking, emphasized the power of a well-timed $10,000 investment, contrasting it with the six-figure loans often pushed by traditional lenders. “We’re combining right-sized capital with expert guidance,” he said, “giving sellers a blueprint for sustainable growth that will help their business and communities thrive”.

Timeline and Application

Applications opened on August 22, and recipients will be announced in November. This timeline gives businesses a chance to prepare for the holiday season with renewed energy and resources.

A Pattern of Support

This isn’t Square’s first foray into small business empowerment. Earlier this year, they partnered with Cash App, Visa, and Propeller to host “Feeding NOLA’s Future,” an event that supported 125 food and beverage businesses in New Orleans with tech tools and expert guidance. And in April, Square expanded its banking services to offer instant access to funds and personalized savings recommendations—another nod to their commitment to cash flow management.

Why This Matters

Square’s approach reflects a deeper understanding of what small businesses truly need: not just money, but mentorship, emotional resilience, and community. It’s a holistic model that could redefine how we think about small business support.