10 Small Business Grants and Resources for Women Entrepreneurs

Grants are one of the few funding sources that don't require repayment or giving up equity — which makes them incredibly valuable, and incredibly competitive. Here are real places to look.

1. Amber Grant for Women

Awards $10,000 monthly to one woman-owned business, with one $25,000 annual grant awarded from that year's monthly winners. Simple application, rolling deadlines.

2. IFundWomen

Combines crowdfunding with grant opportunities specifically for women-owned businesses, plus access to coaching and community.

3. Cartier Women's Initiative

A larger-scale award for women entrepreneurs with more established businesses, offering funding, coaching, and a global network.

4. NASE Growth Grants

The National Association for the Self-Employed offers quarterly grants up to $4,000 for small business owners and members.

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5. Local Small Business Administration (SBA) Resources

Your local SBA office and Women's Business Centers often have grant and low-interest loan programs specific to your state or city that aren't widely advertised.

6. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)

CDFIs offer small business loans and occasionally grants specifically targeting underserved entrepreneurs, often with far more flexible terms than traditional banks.

7. Local Chamber of Commerce Grants

Many city and county Chambers of Commerce run small annual grant programs for local business owners — check yours directly, since these rarely show up in national searches.

8. Fedex Small Business Grant Contest

An annual contest awarding grant funding plus FedEx services to small businesses that apply with a compelling story and plan.

9. Halstead Grant (Handmade/Jewelry Businesses)

If your business involves handmade goods or jewelry, this annual grant is built specifically for makers.

10. Your Own City's Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) Certification

Getting MWBE certified doesn't hand you cash directly, but it unlocks access to grant programs, corporate supplier diversity programs, and set-aside contracts many women never tap into.

Grants take time to apply for, but the payoff — funding with no repayment — makes the effort worth it.

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