Discover essential funding opportunities with top small business grants for women. Explore your options and empower your entrepreneurial journey today!

NOTE ON FRESHNESS: Grant amounts, deadlines, eligibility windows, and contact information for the programs and foundations listed below change frequently and may already be out of date. Before applying to any specific opportunity, verify amount, deadline, and eligibility directly on the funder’s website. This article provides a starting map of relevant programs and where to look, not a definitive snapshot of current cycles.

12+ Small Business Grants for Women (Available in 2025)

Women entrepreneurs face unique challenges when starting and growing their businesses, with access to capital being one of the most significant hurdles. Small business grants for women provide more than just financial support, they offer visibility and valuable networking opportunities that can transform a struggling business into a thriving enterprise.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

• 20+ specific grant opportunities you can apply for right now

• Step-by-step application strategies to maximize your chances of success

PS., Teams using AI-powered grant writing tools like Grantboost can handle their entire monthly grant workload in the time it used to take to complete just one application. Stick around to learn how they’re doing it 😉

Ready? Let’s go.

TL-DR

Types of Small Business Grants for Women

Before diving into specific opportunities, it’s important to understand the different types of grants available to women entrepreneurs.

Federal Government Grants

Federal grants typically focus on specific industries or business objectives. While not exclusively for women, many federal programs have initiatives that prioritize women-owned businesses. These grants often require detailed business plans and financial documentation.

• Small Business Administration (SBA) - While the SBA is known for loans, they coordinate grant programs through partners like Women’s Business Centers. These centers provide training programs, counseling, and access to funding opportunities specifically for women entrepreneurs.

• Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) - This program provides funding to organizations that help disadvantaged entrepreneurs, including women, with training and technical assistance.

• Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - If your business is engaged in federal research and development with commercial potential, this program offers competitive grants, with special consideration for women-owned businesses.

Check Grants.gov. It’s the central database that lists grants sponsored by federal agencies. The platform allows you to search by eligibility criteria and business type.

State and Local Grants

Many states and cities offer grants specifically for women entrepreneurs in their regions. These grants often aim to stimulate local economic growth and development.

• Economic Development Administration resources - Each state has economic development agencies that administer grants to support local businesses, with many having specific programs for women entrepreneurs.

• State-specific women’s business initiatives - States like California, New York, and Texas have robust grant programs designed specifically for women business owners.

• City and county small business development programs - Local governments often offer micro-grants and funding opportunities for women-owned businesses in their communities.

• Local chamber of commerce opportunities - Many chambers have grant programs or can connect you with local funding sources specifically for women entrepreneurs.

Private and Corporate Grants

Private organizations and corporations frequently offer grants to support women entrepreneurs, often with specific focus areas or industries.

• Corporate social responsibility initiatives - Companies like Visa, American Express, and FedEx run grant competitions for small businesses, with some specifically targeting women entrepreneurs. Notable 2026 corporate programs open to women-owned businesses include Intuit QuickBooks (around $20,000 quarterly), American Express Shop Small ($20,000), and FedEx contest grants ($15,000–$50,000). In 2025, American Express and Main Street America together awarded $10,000 grants to 400 small businesses.

Worth knowing: The Small Business Administration (SBA) itself does not give out grants to start or grow a for-profit business, its grant funding flows to nonprofits and resource partners. For the full picture on what the SBA actually funds versus these corporate options, see our SBA grants guide.

• Industry-specific funding opportunities - Certain industries, such as technology, food service, and retail, have dedicated grant programs for women business owners.

• Grants from women’s advocacy organizations - Organizations focused on women’s empowerment often provide funding opportunities for female entrepreneurs.

• Foundation-sponsored programs - Private foundations like the Tory Burch Foundation and the Amber Grant Foundation offer regular grant opportunities for women business owners.

Nonprofit Organization Grants

Various nonprofit organizations provide grants specifically designed to support female entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

• Women’s business centers - These SBA-funded centers offer not only business training and mentorship but also access to grant opportunities.

• Community development financial institutions - These organizations focus on economic development in underserved communities and often have grant programs for women entrepreneurs.

• Professional associations - Industry-specific associations frequently offer grants to support women in their respective fields.

• Advocacy groups - Organizations advocating for women’s rights and equality often provide funding opportunities for women-owned businesses.

Read Next:

• Top Types of Grants: A Comprehensive Guide to Funding Opportunities

• Uncovering Government Grants for Nonprofit Organizations

Top Small Business Grants for Women in 2025

The landscape for women’s business grants is particularly robust in 2025, with numerous organizations offering substantial funding opportunities. These grants vary in their focus, eligibility requirements, and award amounts, giving entrepreneurs multiple pathways to secure the capital they need to grow their businesses.

#1) Amber Grant Foundation

The Amber Grant Foundation awards three $10,000 grants monthly to women-owned businesses in the U.S. or Canada. One grant goes to a startup, one to businesses in specific rotating categories, and one to general small businesses. At year-end, monthly winners compete for three $25,000 annual grants.

Eligibility:

• Businesses must be at least 50% women-owned

• Must operate in the U.S. or Canada

• $15 application fee required

Application Process:

• Complete a simple online application explaining your business

• Describe how you’d use the grant money

• Applications are accepted on a rolling basis with monthly deadlines throughout 2025

• Winners are announced by the 23rd of the following month

Pro Tip: The Amber Grant Foundation emphasizes authentic storytelling over formal business language. Focus on conveying your passion and vision rather than technical jargon.

#2) IFundWomen Universal Grant Application Database

IFundWomen is a grant marketplace specializing in funding and business coaching for women-owned businesses. Their Universal Grant Application allows you to submit once and be matched with multiple grant opportunities from corporate partners like Visa, Neutrogena, and American Express.

Eligible businesses:

• Must be a woman-owned business

• Specific criteria vary by grant partner

Application Process:

• Complete the Universal Grant Application

• Receive notifications when matched with opportunities

• Follow additional instructions for specific grants

Pro Tip: After submitting your Universal Application, stay active in the IFundWomen community. Engagement with their platform can increase your visibility when partner brands look for businesses to support.

#3) HerRise Microgrant

Offered by the Yva Jourdan Foundation, HerRise Microgrants provide $1,000 monthly to under-resourced BIPOC owned businesses.

Eligibility:

• Business must be at least 51% woman-owned

• Must have less than $1 million in gross revenue

• Must be registered in the U.S.

Application Process:

• Applications must be submitted by 11:59PM on the last day of each month

• Winners are announced at the following month’s HerSuiteSpot First Friday Mixer

• Share your business story in the application

#4) YippityDoo Big Idea Grant

YippityDoo offers a monthly $1,000 business grant plus a one-year membership to their wealth mindset coaching group.

Eligibility:

• Must be located in the U.S.

• Must be 18 or older

• Must be a woman entrepreneur or small business owner

• $15 application fee

Application Process:

• Complete a quick 2-minute online application

• Applications are reviewed monthly

• Winners are notified around the 15th of the following month

#5) Galaxy Grant

This grant program from Hidden Star, a nonprofit organization, offers several grant opportunities for women and minority small-business owners:

$3,500 Galaxy Grant:

• Deadline: June 30, 2025

• Quick 30-second entry process

• Free to enter

$25,000 Grant for Growth:

• Deadline: July 31, 2025

• Provides over $25,000 in cash and essential business services

Eligibility:

• Open to women and minority business owners

• Must be early stage entrepreneurs

Application Process:

• Complete the simple online entry form

• Winners announced the week following the deadline

#6) Fund Her Future by H&R Block

Block Advisors by H&R Block offers this grant program for women-owned small businesses with high growth potential and community impact.

Eligibility:

• Must be at least 18 years old

• Must own a U.S.-based business

• Business must be at least 51% woman-owned

• Businesses with community impact are especially encouraged to apply

Grant Amounts:

• Grand prize winner: $50,000 plus one year of small business services

• Four additional recipients: $10,000 each plus business services

Note: The application window for 2025 is expected to open in April 2025. Check the H&R Block website for updated information.

#7) Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards

This prestigious international program awards grants to women-owned businesses in nine different regions worldwide. Businesses focused on social, economic, and environmental development issues are prioritized.

Eligibility:

• Business must be for-profit and revenue-generating for at least one year

• Must be in the initial phase (less than six years old)

• Applicant must be a woman in a leadership position

• Business must demonstrate a positive impact aligned with at least one UN Sustainable Development Goal

• Must have raised no more than US$2 million in dilutive funding

Grant Amounts:

• First place: $100,000

• Second place: $60,000

• Third place: $30,000

Application Process:

• Applications open through June 24, 2025 at 2PM CEST

• Applicants must submit:

  • Resume

  • Business registration document

  • Capitalization table

  • Pitch deck (up to 15 pages)

• Notification of results by December 2025

#8) BMO Celebrating Women Grant Program

A collaboration between BMO Bank and Deloitte, this program awards grants to women entrepreneurs.

Eligibility:

• Business must be at least 51% women-owned

• Must be a for-profit, active business

• Must not be a previous BMO Celebrating Women Grant recipient

Application Process:

• Applications typically open in spring

• Complete an online application with business information

• Semifinalists create a short video

• Separate applications for Canadian and American business owners

#9) She’s Connected by AT&T

This grant program supports U.S.-based women-owned small businesses. Applications for the 2025 cycle will likely open soon.

Eligibility:

• Must be a U.S.-registered women-owned business

• Must have 50 or fewer employees

• Applicant must be at least 18 years old

Grant Amounts:

• Grand prize: $50,000 plus one year of AT&T service and a new device

• Four runner-up businesses: $5,000 each

Application Process:

• Share your business vision, mission, and community impact

• Winners featured in the #ShesConnected series

#10) Dream Makers Founders Grant

A collaboration with the Fifteen Percent Pledge, this grant program offers $25,000 grants to five ambitious business owners.

Eligibility:

• Business must employ between 2-10 people

• Must generate revenue between $100,000 and $1 million

• Must be at least 51% female-owned

• Must be a member of the Fifteen Percent Pledge’s Business Equity Community

• Must sell a product or good (no professional services)

• Must have been generating revenue for at least two full years

• Must be based in the United States

Application Process:

• Applications open April 28, 2025

• Deadline: May 30, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST

• Winners announced in early August

• Create/update business profile in the Business Equity Community

#11) Stacy’s Rise Project

A collaboration between Stacy’s Pita Chips and Hello Alice, this program awards $25,000 grants to 10 women-owned businesses, with preference given to those in the food and beverage industry.

Benefits:

• $25,000 grant

• Four months of executive mentorship

• Access to peer network

• Feature on the FoundedByHer.org business directory

Application Process:

• Check the Hello Alice platform for the 2025 application window

#12) StartHer Grant

Offered by Texas Woman’s University’s Center for Women Entrepreneurs, this grant awards $5,000 to women-owned startups in Texas.

Eligibility:

• Business must be at least 51% women-owned

• Must be based in Texas

• Business must be already formed

• Must have five or fewer employees

• Must be five years old or less

Application Process:

• Applications for 2025 will open soon.

• Submit company background and project information

• Include all required documentation

Federal SBA-Affiliated Programs

While the SBA doesn’t typically offer direct grants to small businesses, they coordinate several programs that can benefit women entrepreneurs:

• Women’s Business Centers - Over 100 centers nationwide offering business development assistance and access to funding opportunities.

• Small Business Development Centers - Provide free consulting and help accessing funding, with many centers having specialized programs for women entrepreneurs.

• PRIME Program - Funds organizations that support disadvantaged entrepreneurs, including women business owners.

Industry-Specific Grants for Women

Several grants target women in specific industries:

FoundHer Accelerator Program - For Hawaii-based AANHPI women entrepreneurs

• Supports Native Hawaiian, Asian, and Pacific Islander wāhine owned startups

• Business must be for-profit and based in Hawaii

• Must have proof of concept and be in early stages (about 3 years in operation)

Women Founders Network Pitch Competition - Tech and consumer goods businesses can win $25,000

• Applications open April 1 through May 31, 2025

• Two tracks: Tech/Tech-enabled and Consumer/CPG/Other Non-tech

• Must be founded, co-founded, or majority-owned by a woman

• Must have raised no more than $750,000 in outside funding

Secretsos™ Small Business Grant - Quarterly $2,500 grants for various categories including women-owned businesses

• Applications open April 1, 2025

• Deadline: June 30, 2025

• Must be a U.S. resident over age 21 with a legally registered business

• $15 application fee

How to Apply for Small Business Grants

Securing grant funding requires more than just finding the right opportunities, it demands a strategic approach to the application process. By understanding what grant reviewers are looking for and preparing thoroughly, you can significantly increase your chances of standing out in a competitive field.

Preparing Your Application

Before diving into the application process, thorough preparation is essential for grant success. Taking the time to gather documentation, organize your business information, and understand the grantor’s priorities will set a strong foundation for your submission and demonstrate your professionalism to reviewers.

Research grants that align with your business type and needs

Before applying for any grant, thoroughly research its requirements and objectives. Look for grants that specifically target your industry, business stage, or demographic. This targeted approach increases your chances of success compared to applying for every grant you find.

Create a compelling business plan highlighting your vision and goals

A strong business plan is essential for most grant applications. Your plan should clearly articulate:

• Your business mission and vision

• Market analysis and competitive landscape

• Your products or services

• Marketing and sales strategy

• Financial projections

• Growth plans

Gather financial statements and projections

Most grant applications require detailed financial information. Prepare:

• Income statements

• Balance sheets

• Cash flow statements

• Financial projections for 1-3 years

• Current funding sources and uses

Prepare a detailed budget for how you’ll use the grant funds

Be specific about how you’ll use the grant money. Instead of saying “marketing expenses,” break it down into specific activities like “social media advertising campaign targeting new mothers in the Midwest” with associated costs.

Collect testimonials or letters of recommendation

Strong endorsements from customers, business partners, or community leaders can significantly strengthen your application. These testimonials should highlight your business’s impact and your capabilities as an entrepreneur.

Writing a Winning Grant Proposal

The quality of your written proposal often determines whether your application rises to the top or gets overlooked. A compelling grant proposal tells your business story effectively, clearly communicates your vision, and convinces reviewers that your venture is worthy of investment and capable of delivering on its promises.

Clearly articulate your business mission and objectives

Begin your proposal with a concise, compelling statement of your business mission. Explain what problem you’re solving and why it matters.

For example: “Bloom Box delivers curated gardening kits to urban dwellers, making sustainable food production accessible to apartment residents while reducing carbon footprints and improving mental health.”

Demonstrate the impact your business has or will have

Grant providers want to fund businesses that create positive change. Clearly explain your business’s impact, whether it’s:

• Creating jobs in underserved communities

• Solving an environmental problem

• Addressing a social issue

• Filling a market gap

Use specific metrics whenever possible. For example: “Our program has already helped 150 women develop tech skills, with 85% securing jobs within three months of completion.”

Explain how the grant will help you achieve specific goals

Don’t just say you need funding, instead explain exactly what the grant will enable you to accomplish. Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) that the grant will help you achieve.

For example: “This $10,000 grant will allow us to purchase equipment that will increase our production capacity by 50% within six months, enabling us to fulfill our waiting list of 200 customers and hiring employees from our local community.”

Use data and metrics to support your claims

Back up your statements with hard data whenever possible. This might include:

• Market research statistics

• Customer survey results

• Sales data and growth rates

• Industry benchmarks

• Social impact metrics

Proofread carefully for errors and clarity

A polished, error-free application demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. After writing your proposal:

• Let it sit for a day before reviewing

• Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing

• Ask a colleague or mentor to review it

• Check for grammar and spelling errors

• Ensure all numbers and calculations are accurate

P.S. With Grantboost’s AI-powered grant writing tool, you can streamline the proposal creation process.

Simply complete a brief survey about your organization and paste information about the grant opportunity, and the AI will generate customized proposal content based on industry best practices, saving you valuable time while creating compelling applications.

Read Next:

• Winning Grant Application Examples to Fuel Your Proposal Success

• The Best AI Grant Writing Tools to Streamline Your Proposal Writing

Common Application Requirements

Most grant applications require similar documentation. Prepare these in advance to streamline the application process:

Business registration documents

• Articles of incorporation or organization

• Business licenses and permits

• EIN documentation

• Proof of women’s business ownership (51% or more)

Financial statements

• Income statements for the past 1-3 years

• Balance sheets

• Cash flow statements

• Tax returns

Business plan

• Executive summary

• Company description

• Market analysis

• Organization and management structure

• Service or product line

• Marketing and sales strategy

• Financial projections

Project proposal

• Clear description of how funds will be used

• Timeline for implementation

• Expected outcomes and metrics for success

• Evaluation plan

Budget

• Itemized list of expenses

• Quotes or estimates for major purchases

• Timeline for fund disbursement

Owner biography or resume

• Professional experience

• Educational background

• Relevant skills and accomplishments

• Community involvement

Evidence of women ownership (51% or more)

• Operating agreement showing ownership percentages

• Stock certificates

• Articles of organization listing owners

BTW, Grantboost simplifies the grant application process by analyzing your organization’s details alongside the grant requirements and instantly generating tailored responses based on proven grant-writing strategies, so you can apply faster, with more confidence, and increase your chances of winning funding.

Tips for Success

Even the most qualified businesses can miss out on grant opportunities due to avoidable mistakes or oversights in their applications. Implementing these proven strategies will help you avoid common pitfalls, strengthen your submission, and present your business in the most favorable light possible to grant reviewers.

Start the application process early

Many grant applications require substantial documentation and thoughtful responses. Begin gathering materials and drafting your application at least 2-3 weeks before the deadline to avoid last-minute stress and ensure a high-quality submission.

Follow instructions precisely

Grant reviewers often disqualify applications that don’t follow the guidelines exactly. Pay close attention to:

• Word or character limits

• Required attachments

• Formatting requirements

• Submission methods

• Deadlines (including time zones)

Tailor each application to the specific grant

Resist the temptation to use a one-size-fits-all approach. Research each grant provider’s mission and priorities, then customize your application to show alignment with their values and objectives.

For example, if applying to a grant focused on sustainability, emphasize your business’s environmental initiatives. For a grant focused on job creation, highlight your hiring plans and workforce development.

Be concise but thorough

Grant reviewers often read dozens or even hundreds of applications. Make yours stand out by being clear and concise while still providing all necessary information. Use bullet points, short paragraphs, and clear headings to improve readability.

Include measurable outcomes

Clearly state what success will look like if you receive the grant. For example:

• “Increase production capacity by 35% within six months”

• “Launch in two new markets by Q3 2025”

• “Create five new full-time positions for women from underserved communities”

Highlight what makes your business unique

In a competitive grant landscape, your unique value proposition matters. Clearly articulate what sets your business apart from others in your industry. This might be:

• An innovative product or service

• A unique business model

• Your personal journey as an entrepreneur

• A distinctive approach to solving a problem

Managing multiple grant applications? Grantboost takes the pressure off by helping you create customized proposals with ease.

You simply fill out a quick survey, and the AI analyzes your inputs along with the grant details to craft responses that are tailored and consistent, all while making sure you hit the mark with each application.

Maximizing Your Chances of Winning a Grant

Beyond simply completing application requirements, there are numerous strategies that can significantly improve your odds of securing grant funding. The most successful applicants approach the process with intention, research, and relationship-building to position themselves as ideal candidates.

Research and Targeting

Strategic selection of grant opportunities is just as important as the quality of your application. Rather than taking a scattered approach, focusing your efforts on the most relevant and attainable grants will maximize your return on investment and increase your likelihood of success.

Focus on grants specifically designed for your business type or industry

Rather than applying for every available grant, target those most aligned with your business. A specialized jewelry business will have better odds applying for the Halstead Grant than a general small business grant with thousands of applicants.

Look for grants with less competition (local or niche opportunities)

Local grants often receive fewer applications than national programs. Check with your:

• City economic development office

• County business development center

• State women’s business initiatives

• Local community foundations

Thoroughly understand each grant’s priorities and selection criteria

Study past winners to understand what the grant provider values. Look for patterns in the types of businesses they fund and the projects they support. Align your application with these priorities.

Connect with previous grant recipients for insights

Reach out to past winners for advice. Many are willing to share their experience and tips. Ask specific questions about:

• What they think made their application successful

• Challenges they faced in the application process

• How they implemented their project after receiving funding

• Advice they would give to new applicants

Read Next: Top 5 Free Grant Writing Software Solutions for Nonprofits on a Budget (2024)

Building Relationships

Grant success often hinges on connections and networks that extend beyond the formal application. Developing meaningful relationships with funding organizations and industry peers can provide valuable insights, create advocates for your business, and open doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain hidden.

• Network with grant organizations before applying: Follow grant providers on social media, attend their webinars, and engage with their content before applying. This helps you understand their values and priorities while making your name familiar to the organization.

• Attend workshops or webinars hosted by funding organizations: Many grant providers offer informational sessions for qualified grant applicants. These events provide valuable insights into what reviewers are looking for and give you a chance to ask questions directly.

• Engage with women’s business centers and support organizations: Women’s Business Centers, funded by the SBA, offer free or low-cost assistance with grant applications. Their advisors can review your materials and provide feedback before submission.

• Join professional associations in your industry: Industry associations often have grant opportunities or can connect you with relevant funding sources. They also provide networking opportunities with other women entrepreneurs who can share their grant success stories.

Demonstrating Impact

Grant providers are increasingly focused on funding businesses that create meaningful change beyond financial returns. Clearly articulating how your business addresses important problems and contributes positively to society can significantly strengthen your application and align with funders’ goals.

Clearly explain how your business addresses a market need

Grant providers want to fund solutions to real problems. Clearly articulate:

• The specific problem you’re solving

• Who experiences this problem

• Why existing solutions are inadequate

• How your approach is different or better

Highlight your business’s social or economic impact

Beyond profits, emphasize how your business creates positive change. This might include:

• Job creation in underserved communities

• Environmental benefits

• Educational opportunities

• Community development

• Support for other women entrepreneurs

Include measurable goals and outcomes

Specify exactly what you’ll achieve with the grant funds using concrete metrics:

• “Increase production capacity by 50% within six months”

• “Hire and train three employees from underserved communities”

• “Reduce carbon emissions by 30% through equipment upgrades”

• “Expand services to reach 500 additional customers in rural areas”

Show how the grant will help scale your impact

Explain how the grant will create a multiplier effect, allowing your business to grow and increase its positive impact over time. Grant providers want to see that their investment will have lasting benefits beyond the initial funding period.

Read Next: Your Blueprint to Funding: Standout Proposal Tips

Alternative Funding Options

While pursuing grants, consider these additional funding sources for women entrepreneurs:

Small business loans for women

• SBA Women’s Prequalification Loan Program

• Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) loans

• Microloans from organizations like Grameen America or Kiva

Crowdfunding campaigns

• Platforms like iFundWomen specifically support women entrepreneurs

• Kickstarter or Indiegogo for product-based businesses

• Seed&Spark for creative enterprises

Angel investment group and venture capital grants

• Female Founders Fund

• Golden Seeds

• Pipeline Angels

• Women’s Venture Capital Fund

Business accelerators and incubators

• Y Combinator

• Techstars Women

• The Refinery

• Women’s Startup Lab

Ready to Fund Your Business Dreams? Start with Grantboost

Finding the right grant for your women-owned business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are the key takeaways from our guide:

• Diversify your applications - Apply for multiple grants to increase your chances of success. Create a calendar to track deadlines and requirements for each opportunity.

• Tailor each application - Customize your proposals to match each grant’s specific requirements and priorities. Generic applications rarely succeed in competitive grant processes.

• Don’t give up - Grant writing is competitive, but persistence pays off. Many successful grant recipients were rejected multiple times before securing funding. Use feedback from unsuccessful applications to strengthen future submissions.

P.S., We’ve seen firsthand how challenging the grant writing process can be. That’s why Grantboost’s AI-powered grant writing tool is designed to streamline your application journey. By completing a simple survey about your organization and pasting information about the grant opportunity, you’ll receive customized proposal content based on proven strategies.

This approach saves you valuable time while creating compelling applications that resonate with funders, allowing you to focus more on what matters most, running and growing your mission.

Further Reading

• Small Business Administration
• SBA Women’s Business Centers
• Minority Business Development Agency
• Amber Grant for Women
• Grants.gov (federal funding portal)

Disclaimer: Grant programs, eligibility rules, deadlines, and policies vary by region and change frequently. The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current rules in your area. Always consult a local grant writer or qualified expert in your region for advice specific to your organization, project, and jurisdiction.