Starting or expanding a business can be challenging, especially for women entrepreneurs who may face financial and systemic barriers. Business grants designed specifically for women can provide the necessary funding to launch, grow, and sustain businesses without the burden of repayment. These grants not only provide capital but also offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources to help women succeed. This guide explores ten of the best business grants for women worldwide.
1. Amber Grant (USA)
The Amber Grant is awarded monthly to women entrepreneurs in the United States, with one annual winner receiving additional funding.
- Eligibility: Women-owned businesses, including startups.
- Coverage: $10,000 monthly and a $25,000 annual grant.
- Benefits: Access to mentorship and networking with other women entrepreneurs.
2. Cartier Women’s Initiative Award (Global)
Cartier awards women entrepreneurs globally who demonstrate strong leadership and innovation.
- Eligibility: Women-led businesses with a strong social or environmental impact.
- Coverage: $100,000 for top prize winners; $30,000 for regional winners.
- Benefits: Mentorship, training, and global recognition.
3. Women Founders Network Grants (USA)
This grant focuses on supporting women-led startups, especially in tech and innovative sectors.
- Eligibility: Female founders in the early stages of their startup.
- Coverage: Varies, often $5,000–$25,000.
- Benefits: Networking opportunities and visibility in venture capital communities.
4. Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant Program (USA)
Eileen Fisher provides funding to women-owned businesses with a focus on social impact and sustainability.
- Eligibility: Women-owned businesses with social or environmental missions.
- Coverage: Up to $100,000 over two years.
- Benefits: Mentorship, leadership training, and community building.
5. Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program (USA)
The Tory Burch Foundation supports women entrepreneurs with grants, education, and mentorship.
- Eligibility: Women-led businesses in the U.S. with at least one year of operations.
- Coverage: $5,000 grants for business development and training programs.
- Benefits: Access to a powerful network of women entrepreneurs and investors.
6. Girlboss Foundation Grant (USA)
The Girlboss Foundation awards funding to women entrepreneurs in creative industries.
- Eligibility: Women-led businesses in art, design, fashion, and related fields.
- Coverage: $15,000–$20,000 per grant cycle.
- Benefits: Mentorship, business support, and networking opportunities.
7. InnovateHER Challenge (USA)
Hosted by the Small Business Administration (SBA), this challenge supports women who develop products or services that impact women and families.
- Eligibility: Women-led businesses offering innovative products or services.
- Coverage: Cash prizes up to $50,000.
- Benefits: Mentorship, exposure to investors, and media recognition.
8. SheEO Grants (Canada, USA, New Zealand)
SheEO provides funding to women-led ventures that address social, environmental, and community challenges.
- Eligibility: Women-led businesses that are for-profit or non-profit.
- Coverage: $50,000 per project.
- Benefits: Network of like-minded women entrepreneurs and support ecosystem.
9. Cartier Women’s Initiative Social Impact Grant (Global)
Distinct from the main Cartier award, this grant focuses exclusively on women-led businesses creating measurable social impact.
- Eligibility: Female entrepreneurs with businesses addressing social challenges.
- Coverage: $30,000–$100,000 depending on region and scale.
- Benefits: Mentorship, media exposure, and global recognition.
10. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest (USA)
Although not exclusively for women, this contest has historically awarded numerous women-owned businesses.
- Eligibility: Small businesses with fewer than 99 employees.
- Coverage: $25,000–$50,000 in cash grants, plus FedEx services.
- Benefits: Exposure, mentorship, and access to FedEx business resources.
Overview Table
| Grant Name | Country/Region | Eligibility | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amber Grant | USA | Women-owned businesses | $10,000 monthly / $25,000 annual |
| Cartier Women’s Initiative Award | Global | Women entrepreneurs with social impact | $30,000–$100,000 |
| Women Founders Network Grants | USA | Early-stage female founders | $5,000–$25,000 |
| Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Grant | USA | Women-owned with social/environmental mission | Up to $100,000 over two years |
| Tory Burch Foundation Fellows | USA | Women-led businesses (1+ year) | $5,000 + training programs |
| Girlboss Foundation Grant | USA | Women in creative industries | $15,000–$20,000 |
| InnovateHER Challenge | USA | Women creating products/services for women | Up to $50,000 |
| SheEO Grants | Canada, USA, NZ | Women-led social/environmental ventures | $50,000 |
| Cartier Social Impact Grant | Global | Women-led social enterprises | $30,000–$100,000 |
| FedEx Small Business Grant Contest | USA | Small businesses (<99 employees) | $25,000–$50,000 + services |
Conclusion
Women entrepreneurs have access to numerous grants that can help them start, grow, and scale their businesses. From small cash awards to substantial multi-year funding, these grants provide financial support, mentorship, and networking opportunities essential for business success. By carefully researching eligibility, preparing strong applications, and leveraging available resources, women can secure funding and achieve long-term entrepreneurial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are these grants only for startups?
No, some grants are available for both startups and established women-led businesses.
2. Do I have to repay these grants?
No, business grants do not need to be repaid, unlike loans.
3. Can international women entrepreneurs apply?
Some grants are global, like the Cartier Women’s Initiative and SheEO Grants, while others are country-specific.