Any entrepreneur’s journey is not one without challenges. For women, securing funds or business loans can be even tougher. Most businesses fail because they don’t have a working capital and entrepreneurs switch to an office job to make ends meet. To prevent this heartache and support your entrepreneurial spirit, we’ve compiled a list of business grants exclusively for women in the US, currently accepting applications for 2024. Let’s help you find the financial support you need to thrive in your business venture!
Here are 8 business grants for women entrepreneurs in the US:
1. Amber Grant
Initiated in 1998 in memory of a young woman named Amber, this grant stands out for its simplicity and personal touch. Each month, it awards a $10,000 grant to a woman entrepreneur who shares her unique business story and vision. At the end of the year, one of these monthly winners receives an additional $25,000 grant. It has a straightforward application process and the way it connects applicants’ personal stories to their business ambition makes it special.
- Amount: $10,000 monthly grants, with a year-end $25,000 grant.
- Eligibility: Open to women entrepreneurs in any business sector.
2. Cartier Women’s Initiative Award
One of the most prestigious international business competitions, this award is given to empowering women entrepreneurs. It is targeted at businesses in the early stages of development and focuses on creative, financially sustainable, and socially responsible women-led companies. Winners not only receive a substantial grant but also get access to workshops, training sessions, and networking opportunities.
- Amount: Ranges from $30,000 to $100,000.
- Eligibility: Women-run and women-owned businesses.
3. Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant
Another grant that focuses on supporting women-owned businesses dedicated to creating environmental and social change. Beyond the financial grant, this program is known for its emphasis on innovative, sustainable business practices and positive community impact.
- Amount: $10,000 to $40,000.
- Eligibility: Women-owned businesses focused on social or environmental change and should be less than 3 years old.
4. Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program
The Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program is more than a grant; it’s a year-long fellowship designed to provide women entrepreneurs with resources to grow their business. Winning this grant means receiving $5,000 for business education, a trip to the Tory Burch offices, and the opportunity to participate in a pitch competition. Businesses in their early-stage can apply for this as it offers a combination of education, mentorship, and networking.
- Amount: $5,000 for business education.
- Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs owning a majority stake in a qualifying business, should be 21 years or older, and the business should be in its early stage.
5. Girlboss Foundation Grant
One of the very few grants for women entrepreneurs in creative fields like design, fashion, music, and the arts, recipients are selected based on creativity, planning, and potential impact.
- Amount: $15,000.
- Eligibility: Women in fields of design, fashion, music, and the arts.
6. Halstead Grant
Specifically designed for women in the jewelry industry, The Halstead Grant is not just a financial award but also a business development program. It includes a grant and jewelry supplies, but perhaps more importantly, it requires applicants to submit a business plan, which is reviewed and critiqued by industry experts.
- Amount: $7,500 plus $1,000 in jewelry supplies.
- Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs in the jewelry industry. Applicants have to submit their portfolio and
7. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest
Focusing on its commitment to innovation and sustainability, this grant by FedEx is open to all small businesses, including those owned by women. Along with the financial grant, winning businesses get a boost in visibility and credibility through the logistic giant’s marketing channels.
- Amount: Up to $50,000.
- Eligibility: For-profit small businesses, including those owned by women.
8. 37 Angels
37 Angels is a known name in the venture capital world for its focus on closing the gender gap in startup investing. This network of women investors offers funding to early-stage startups with at least one woman in a leadership role. Winning businesses can receive up to $150,000 in grants and guidance to scale their business.
- Amount: $50,000 to $150,000.
- Eligibility: Startups with at least one woman in a position of leadership and should have a compelling business model.
Happy applying! Each of these grants represent an opportunity to live out your dream.
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