Women own over 12 million businesses in the U.S. and employ more than 10 million workers, according to the Small Business Administration. However, they still face obstacles in accessing business financing. In 2021, for example, the Chicago Booth Review found that 87% of venture capital for startup businesses went to male founders.
To help level the playing field, some organizations offer business grants specifically designed to empower women business owners. Applying for grants can take considerable time and effort, and they’re often highly competitive. But since the funds don’t need to be repaid, small business grants are a powerful financial tool that can give your business a much-needed boost.
Here are 20 business grants for women (1-17 from private organizations and 18-20 from the federal government.):
| Grant name | Business type | Grant amount | Application timing |
| 1. Amber Grant | Any | $10,000 | Monthly |
| 2. Cartier Women’s Initiative | Social impact | Up to $100,000 | May and June |
| 3. NASE Growth Grant | Any | $4,000 | Quarterly |
| 4. Tory Burch Foundation fellowship | Any | $5,000 | September to November |
| 5. Women of Color Grant | Any | Up to $20,000 | April |
| 6. FedEx Small Business Grant | Any | Up to $50,000 | March |
| 7. IFundWomen grant program | Any | Up to $100,000 | Rolling |
| 8. Galaxy Grants | Any | $2,750 | February and March |
| 9. Halstead Grant | Silver jewelry | Up to $7,500 | February to April |
| 10. Brown Girl Jane x SheaMoisture Grant | Beauty and wellness | Up to $25,000 | Fall |
| 11. HerRise Microgrant | Any | $1,000 | Monthly |
| 12. Comcast RISE grant program | Any | $5,000 | June |
| 13. Enthuse Foundation grant program | Food, beverage or CPG | $2,500 | March |
| 14. Launch Program | CPG | $10,000 | February and March |
| 15. Women Founders Network Fast Pitch program | Any | $25,000 | April and May |
| 16. High Five Grant | Any | Up to $10,000 | September |
| 17. EmpowHER Grants | Social impact | Up to $30,000 | Quarterly |
18. Grants.gov
Grants.gov is a central database where you can find grant opportunities with federal agencies like the Departments of Defense, Agriculture and Education. You can filter opportunities by eligibility and enterprise category, and the site also features educational resources and tools.
Who qualifies? Eligibility varies by grant opportunity, but your business must meet the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) size standards.
How can I apply? Before applying for a grant through the database, you must create a Grants.gov Workspace account. You must also have a Unique Entity ID number from SAM.gov, which allows you to bid on government contracts (including grants).
19. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs
The SBA runs the SBIR and STTR programs, which award federal grants to businesses focusing on research and development. These programs aim to help underrepresented groups, including women in business.
Who qualifies? Your for-profit business must be at least 50% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or legal residents. You must employ fewer than 500 employees.
How can I apply? You must register your company with the SBIR. Each grant has unique eligibility requirements, including a grant proposal that meets the agency’s criteria. Grant amounts vary but may be worth up to several hundred thousand dollars.
20. USDA Rural Business Development Grants
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers Rural Business Development Grants to qualifying businesses in rural areas that can be used for growth opportunities like land development, transportation and technology-based economic development. These grants aim to help small businesses create jobs in rural areas.
There’s no maximum grant amount, but the USDA says smaller requests receive higher priority. Grants generally range from $10,000 to $500,000. Who qualifies? Nonprofit organizations, government entities and American Indian tribes are eligible for funding. You must serve an eligible rural community with a population below 50,000. Your business must have fewer than 50 employees and have less than $1 million in annual revenue.
How can I apply? Like the grant opportunities found through Grants.gov, you must have a Unique Entity ID number to apply for a USDA grant. Applications are accepted once per year at state and local USDA offices — applications have historically been due by late February.
Summary
Securing funding for your business as a woman entrepreneur is not only possible but also increasingly accessible through various grants tailored to support your journey. From government initiatives to private foundations, the landscape of opportunities is vast and diverse. By leveraging these resources, you can fuel the growth of your business and bring your vision to life.
We understand the challenges and aspirations of small business owners, especially women entrepreneurs. In addition to exploring grants, our platform offers a myriad of resources, support networks, and tools to empower your entrepreneurial journey. From e-commerce solutions to community engagement, we’re committed to providing the support you need to thrive in the competitive business landscape.
