The U.S. Government is Literally Paying People to Start Businesses in 2026
Codie Sanchez argues the government leaves money for small businesses unclaimed, noting more than 30% of over $50 billion went unused last year. She walks through state incentives, tax credits, entity choices and SBA loans.
The gist
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Sanchez says every state offers incentives like wage reimbursements and training grants, such as Texas giving up to $500K for workforce training.
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She says QSBS let her make $300K tax-free; holding qualifying small C corp shares five years can exclude gains up to $10 million.
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Sanchez says the WOTC gives $2,400 to $9,600 for hiring veterans, and Section 179 lets you write off up to $1.25 million in equipment.
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She says an S corp election lets a solo founder with $500K profit pay the 15.3% tax only on a reasonable salary.
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Sanchez favors SBA microloans of up to $50K at 8 to 13% over credit cards, and says consulting fees can be deducted.
Codie, This Week in Startups, Ali and TBPN agree on 20 things
See what they all use, in their own words. Paid ads are left out.
See what they all swear by Or pick your own peopleAlso mentioned
4:58
Open Fortune
· "The QSBS allowed me to make 300K tax-free from a fortune cookie advertising company called Open Fortune."
14:01
Main Street Millionaire Live
· "That's exactly why we host Main Street Millionaire Live. Go to www.msm.live."
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