Best 18 Business Grants for Women: Fuel Your Dreams with Free Money (2024)

Funding a business can be difficult, especially for women entrepreneurs who often face unique challenges in accessing capital. But don’t let this discourage you! The good news is that there are many best best business grants for women, offering free money to help you start or grow your dream business.

In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore the 18 best business grants for women, providing you with all the details you need to apply and increase your chances of success. We’ll cover eligibility requirements, application deadlines, award amounts, and more. So, grab your coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of free money for women-owned businesses!

Top 18 Business Grants for Women

Amber Grant:

This monthly grant awards $10,000 to a woman-owned business. There are no specific industries or specific restrictions, making it a great option for a wide range of businesses.

Grants.gov:

This US government website is a one-stop shop for federal business grants, including many grants targeted at women entrepreneurs. Use the search function to find grants that fit your industry and business goals.

GirlBoss Foundation Grant:

 

This grant awards up to $15,000 to women-owned businesses making a positive impact on their communities. If your business has a social mission, this could be the perfect grant for you.

Cartier Women’s Initiative Award:

This prestigious international award supports businesses led by women entrepreneurs who are driving social change. With a grand prize of €100,000 and mentorship opportunities, this award is a game-changer for aspiring female entrepreneurs.

IFundWomen:

This crowdfunding platform provides grants and loans to women-owned businesses. You can raise capital through crowdfunding and potentially qualify for additional grants from IFundWomen.

FedEx Small Business Grant Contest:

This annual contest awards $50,000 to a small business with a special emphasis on women-owned businesses. If you’re passionate about your small business, this contest is a great way to get exposure and funding.

National Association for Self-Employment Development Grants:

This association offers grants of up to $4,000 to self-employed individuals, including women entrepreneurs. If you are a solo entrepreneur or freelancer, this grant can be a valuable boost.

Halsted Grant:

This grant provides funding and mentoring to women-owned businesses in retail, service, or light manufacturing industries. If your business falls into these categories, this grant is worth checking out.

SoGal Startup Grant:

This grant focuses on funding innovative women-led businesses in emerging markets. If your business is tech-enabled and making a difference in an emerging market, this grant could be the golden ticket for you.

Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant:

This grant awards $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the fashion, home goods, or social enterprise sectors. If your business falls into these categories, this grant is a great option.

Bootcamp for Women Entrepreneurs:

This program provides grants and intensive business training to women entrepreneurs in disadvantaged communities. If you are a woman entrepreneur facing economic or social barriers, this program could be life-changing.

Sundial Brands RISE Grant:

This grant supports women-owned businesses in the consumer packaged goods industry. If your business is creating innovative and sustainable products, this grant can help you reach new heights.

Women’s Startup Challenge:

This annual competition provides grants and guidance to women-led startups. If you’re an early-stage startup with high growth potential, this competition can be your launchpad to success.

3M Innovation Grants:

These grants help small businesses develop innovative products or technologies. If your business is pushing the boundaries of innovation, this grant could be

National Council of Women Organizations (NCWO) Microgrant Program:

This program provides grants of up to $5,000 to women-owned businesses in rural and urban areas. If you are a female entrepreneur living in a rural or disadvantaged community, this grant program can provide the support you need.

The Pitch:

This reality TV show provides funding and business development opportunities to female entrepreneurs. If you are confident in your business idea and can pitch it to investors, this could be your chance to secure major funding.

SBA’s Microloan Program:

This program provides loans of up to $50,000 to small businesses, including those owned by women. Although technically not a grant, this program offers low-interest loans that can be a valuable source of funding for women entrepreneurs.

Local and state grants:

Many local and state governments offer grants specifically for women-owned businesses. Research grant opportunities in your area to uncover hidden gems that can lead to the right funding boost for your business.

Tips for Applying for business grants for women

Now that you know about some of the best business grants for women, here are some tips to increase your chances of success in the application process:

Read the eligibility requirements carefully. Make sure your business meets all the criteria before applying.
start early. Grant applications can take time, so give yourself plenty of time to gather all the necessary materials.
Highlight your unique story. Tell funders what makes your business special and why you deserve their funding.
Proofread your application carefully. Typos and grammatical errors can make a bad impression.
Follow up after submitting your application. Let funders know that you are interested and look forward to hearing from them.

conclusion: best business grants for women

Securing funding for your best business grants for women can be challenging, but it is not impossible. By taking advantage of the numerous business grants available to women, you can increase your chances of success and turn your dream into reality. So, don’t wait any longer! Start researching grants today and take the first step toward financial freedom for your business.

We hope this comprehensive blog post has been helpful. If you have any questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to leave a comment below. We’re always happy to help!

Remember: There is no guarantee that you will win every grant you apply for, but by trying your best and being persistent, you will eventually get the funding you need to make your business dreams a reality. May you be successful!