Top Grants for Small Women-Owned Businesses
Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the incredible achievements and contributions of women in business and beyond. All of us at Optimized EA are honored to work alongside so many inspiring women entrepreneurs—women who are building businesses, creating jobs, and making a real impact in their communities.
We know firsthand that funding is one of the biggest challenges women entrepreneurs face, but the good news is there are plenty of grant opportunities available to help. Whether you're looking to expand your business, launch a new project, or simply get the financial support you need to take that next step, there are resources out there for you.
In this post, we’re sharing a list of grant opportunities, eligibility criteria, and practical tips to help you navigate the application process.
Why Business Grants Matter for Women Entrepreneurs
As many of you know, getting access to funding can be tough. Women entrepreneurs often face unique challenges when it comes to securing capital, whether it’s due to limited access to traditional funding sources or simply not knowing where to look for support.
Grants can be a game-changer because they provide funding that doesn’t need to be paid back—allowing you to invest in growth, innovation, and sustainability without adding financial stress. Whether it’s for hiring, marketing, product development, or expanding your reach, grant funding can help you take your business to the next level.
We’ve seen firsthand how securing the right funding can empower women to turn their ideas into thriving businesses, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Who Qualifies for Women’s Business Grants?
While every grant is different, most women-focused grants share common eligibility criteria, such as:
Women-Owned Businesses: Typically, at least 51% of the business must be owned and operated by women.
Business Type: Whether you’re running a startup, an established business, or a nonprofit, there are grants tailored to different stages and structures.
Industry Focus: Some grants are industry-specific, supporting sectors like tech, healthcare, or social impact ventures.
Location: Grants can be available at the local, state, national, or even international levels.
Revenue and Employee Limits: Some grants are targeted at businesses of a certain size or revenue bracket.
Purpose of Funding: Whether you’re looking to expand, innovate, or make a community impact, there’s a grant that aligns with your goals.
The key is to find grants that align with your business goals and carefully review the criteria before applying.
Where to Find Business Grants for Women Entrepreneurs
We know searching for funding can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together a list of trusted grant sources to help you get started.
Federal Grants
Grants.gov
A comprehensive database of government funding opportunities across various industries.SBA Women's Business Centers (WBCs)
The Small Business Administration offers funding programs, training, and support through a network of Women's Business Centers nationwide.
Private and Corporate Grants
Amber Grant for Women
This foundation awards $10,000 monthly to women-owned businesses and an additional $50,000 grant at the end of the year.IFundWomen Universal Grant
A platform that connects women entrepreneurs with corporate grants, crowdfunding, and coaching.Cartier Women’s Initiative
This program offers global funding and mentorship opportunities to women entrepreneurs creating social impact.Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program
Offers funding, mentorship, and networking for women business owners.HerRise MicroGrant
The HerRise MicroGrant offers financial support to innovative women who struggle to secure funding for their community-impacting small businesses.Visa Everywhere Initiative
This program offers funding and support to startups, including women-led businesses.Freed Fellowship Grant
Freed Fellowship's mission is to help 1,000 businesses reach at least $1 million in revenue within the next decade (#1K1M1D). Monthly $500 and end-of-year $2,500 grant to help recipients grow their businesses in the US & Canada.FedEx Small Business Grant Contest
This contest offers grants of up to $50,000 to small businesses, including women-owned businesses.National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
NASE offers grants of up to $4,000 to its members, including women entrepreneurs.YippityDoo's Small Business Grant
A monthly $1,000 grant awarded to U.S.-based women entrepreneurs to invest in their business or idea.Start.Pivot.Grow. Microgrant
Quarterly $2,500 microgrants providing non-dilutive funding to small business owners, meaning recipients don't have to give away a portion of their business to receive support.Faire Small Business Grant
Offers $5,000 grants to select new retail businesses to help stock their stores and cover inventory expenses. Grants are awarded as Faire.com credit, usable within six months for inventory purchases on the platform.Founders First CDC's Kitty Fund
Provides $1,000 microgrants to 25 mother-owned businesses annually, honoring the memory of Catherine "Kitty" Abrams Tadlock Webster. Eligible businesses must have between 2 to 100 employees and be based in the U.S.The Mama Ladder's High Five Grant for Moms™
A business grant competition for mothers who own at least 50% of a for-profit business. Winners receive financial support and mentorship to grow their businesses.Women Founders Network Fast Pitch Competition
An annual competition offering cash grants and mentorship to women entrepreneurs. Finalists receive pitch coaching, financial mentorship, and access to a network of investors and advisors.Galaxy Grants
Provides funding for women and minority entrepreneurs through a simple application process. Winners receive grants to support their business growth and development.Enthuse Foundation Pitch Competition
An annual event where women entrepreneurs pitch their businesses to a panel of judges for a chance to win funding and resources.Dream Makers Founders Grant
Offers financial assistance to women entrepreneurs pursuing their business dreams.Stacy's Rise Project
Supports women entrepreneurs through funding, mentorship, and community resources.Waves of Change Grant
Provides grants to women-led businesses making a social impact.Ignite: A WBDC Grant
Offered by the Women's Business Development Center to support women entrepreneurs with funding and resources.StartHer Grant
Provides funding to early-stage women-led startups to support business growth.Texas Rural Woman Grant
Supports women entrepreneurs in rural Texas with funding and resources to grow their businesses.WBDC Launch Pad Grant Program
Offered by the Women's Business Development Council to support women entrepreneurs with funding and business development resources.Giving Joy Grants
Offers microgrants to women entrepreneurs to support business initiatives that bring joy and make a difference in their communities.Veteran Woman Grant
Provides funding to women veterans who are entrepreneurs, supporting their transition from military to business ownership.EmpowHER Grants
Supports women entrepreneurs with funding and resources to empower their business growth.National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grant
Offers grants up to $4,000 to NASE members to finance business needs such as equipment, marketing, and hiring employees.
Local and State Grants
Your State’s Economic Development Agency
Many states have funding programs specifically for women-owned businesses—check your state’s website for opportunities.Local Women’s Business Centers (WBCs)
Regional centers often have grants and business support tailored to local women entrepreneurs
Helpful Resources for Women Entrepreneurs
SCORE
This organization offers free business mentoring and resources to entrepreneurs.Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)
SBDCs provide free business consulting and training to small business owners.Women's Business Centers (WBCs)
WBCs offer training, mentoring, and financing to women entrepreneurs.
Tips for Applying for Business Grants
We know applying for grants can feel intimidating, but with a little preparation, you can put your best foot forward. Here are some practical tips to help you succeed:
Understand the Requirements: Take the time to read through the eligibility criteria and ensure your business aligns with the grant’s purpose.
Craft a Strong Business Plan: A clear, compelling business plan that outlines your goals and financial needs can set you apart.
Be Authentic: Your story matters—don’t be afraid to share your journey and the impact your business is making.
Stay Organized: Keep track of application deadlines and required documents so you don’t miss out on opportunities.
Get Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s through SCORE, SBA, or even us here at Optimized EA, there are resources available to support you.
Highlight your impact: Explain how your business is making a difference in your community.
Proofread carefully: Make sure your application is free of errors.
Remember, applying for grants takes time and effort, but it’s worth it when you secure the funding that can take your business to new heights.
Final Thoughts
Women’s History Month is a perfect time to recognize the incredible contributions of women entrepreneurs and to take advantage of the opportunities available to help your business thrive.
If you found this helpful, please share it with other women entrepreneurs who might benefit. Let’s work together to ensure more women-owned businesses get the support they deserve.
OptimizedEA: Supporting Your Journey Every Step of the Way
We at Optimized EA are continually inspired by the women we work with—your dedication, creativity, and resilience push boundaries and make a real impact. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, we want to see you succeed, and we’re here to support you in any way we can.
And remember—if you have any questions or need guidance, we’re always happy to help our fellow Women-Owned Businesses. Schedule a free consultation now, or contact us today to get started. We’re cheering you on and can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll accomplish. Happy Women’s History Month!