Black women entrepreneurs are a significant part of the US economy, solving some of the world’s most unmet needs. But they find it difficult to access funding, thanks to systemic racism, among other challenges. Fortunately, various nonprofits, foundations, and corporations offer business grants for black women. Such programs, like the Wish Local Empowerment, work to promote equality in business opportunities.
However, it’s worth noting that many grants are competitive, so it helps to apply early, follow instructions carefully, and submit clear business details. If stuck somewhere, read our guides on how to find business grants for women and how to write a successful small business proposal. Without further ado, here are the best business grants for Black women.
SoGal Foundation Black Founder Startup Grant
The SoGal Foundation’s Black Founder Startup Grant program supports Black women and Black nonbinary entrepreneurs with funding ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. It aims to help address the funding gap many Black founders experience when building a business. The funding program is well known, widely shared within the small business community, and considered best for founders with a legally registered business and who can clearly explain their growth plan, purpose, and funding needs.
To apply, visit the SoGal Foundation website, find the Black Founder Startup Grant page, review the eligibility requirements, and submit the online application during the open period.
Also Read: 15 Best Business Grants for Women in Alabama
Wish Local Empowerment Program
Wish Local Empowerment Program recognizes the hardships black small businesses face in accessing funding. As a result, they have committed to supporting about 4,000 founders with a $2 million fund. Successful applicants will receive $500-$2,000, which is a small award compared to those of more popular grant programs. Still, it can fund various activities, including paying rent, setting inventory costs, or even connecting with new customers, and therefore is worth a shot.
To qualify, your business must be black-owned, have no more than 20 employees, and earn less than $1 million in annual revenue. If you qualify and are selected for the program, you must become a Wish Local small business partner by joining.
The application process is simple: describe your business and why you qualify for funding. Visit the program’s page to complete the application form.
HerRise MicroGrant
If you are seeking business grants for Black women, HerRise Microgrant offers $1,000 per month to under-resourced female founders of color. Microgrants are smaller than large national awards, but they can still make a difference by helping cover equipment, inventory, marketing, licensing, or basic operations. This grant is a strong fit for Black women business owners who need a manageable amount of funding for a clear business purpose.
To qualify, your business must be registered in the US, 51% women-owned, and generate less than $1 in annual revenue. To apply, visit HerSuiteSpot and locate the HerRise MicroGrant page. Complete the application, which involves sharing your pitch and plan, and submit it during the active application cycle.
Amber Grant for Women
The Amber Grant is one of the national business grant programs for women, and it also supports Black female founders. It offers three monthly $10,000 awards: startup grants, category-specific grants, and general grants. Additionally, the program provides three Year-End Grants of $50,000. It’s an ideal option if you want year-round funding opportunities you can apply for.
Visit the Women’s Net’s website and locate the Amber Grant application page. Fill out the application form, giving a clear explanation of your business and how the grant will support its growth. Submit before the monthly deadline.
Cartier Women’s Initiative
Cartier Women’s Initiative is a global program that supports women entrepreneurs, including eligible founders in the United States. It focuses on businesses that create social or environmental impact while building sustainable income. The program is competitive and usually requires detailed information about your business, impact, and plans. It can be a strong choice for Black women founders with mission-driven businesses and measurable results.
To get started, visit the Cartier Women’s Initiative website, review the program’s eligibility criteria, prepare the required documents, and submit the online application during the official window.
Visa She’s Next
Visa’s She’s Next runs programs that may include free business grants for black women, mentoring, and other forms of business support. These opportunities can change depending on the year and partner program, so you should check the website regularly to apply for currently available opportunities. The program is ideal for black female founders seeking funding, visibility, tools, or coaching that support long-term business growth.
To apply, visit Visa’s She’s Next to find open opportunities. Review eligibility rules and apply through the official program link when available.
Also Read: 10 Small Business Grants in Seattle: Free Funding for Women Entrepreneurs
Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program
The Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program is dedicated to helping female entrepreneurs grow their businesses and contribute to the well-being of the economy. Black women founders can benefit from the program’s services, including a strong peer network, collaborative coaching, access to advisors, and self-paced education.
While it is often discussed alongside free grants for women-owned businesses, it’s a fellowship program that provides women with the tools and resources they need to succeed in their business ventures.
To get started, visit the Tory Burch Foundation website and find the Fellows Program page. Review the eligibility criteria and submit your online application during the open period.
National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
If you are wondering where to obtain free startup grants for black entrepreneurs, try NASE Growth Grants. While it is not specific to women or Black founders, you can use its $4,000 fund to support your enterprise’s growth. The grants can finance practical expenses, such as marketing, equipment, support staff, or business tools. This is a good option if you are self-employed and want a smaller grant with clear expectations.
To apply, become a NASE member and access the Growth Grant application portal. Explain why you need funding and how it will help your business. Apply before the quarterly deadline.
Hello Alice Small Business Grants
Through Hello Alice, a small business platform that hosts and promotes funding programs from partner organizations, you can access business grants for black women. Some of these grants are specifically designed for female founders, while others generally cater to underserved founders. You can go through the grant listings to see which one fits your business type and apply through one organized platform. Grant availability changes, so check regularly.
To get started, create a Hello Alice account and complete your business profile. You can then browse open grant opportunities, confirm that you meet eligibility criteria, and submit your application before the posted deadline.
Grants.gov (Federal Grant Listings)
Grants.gov is the official U.S. government website where you’ll find listings for federal business grants, including those that target black women-owned businesses. You can apply depending on your business type, purpose, and eligibility rules. However, you should note that many federal grants are project-based and may focus on research, training, or community programs.
Visit Grants.gov and search for funding opportunities using keywords related to your business and industry. Review eligibility rules carefully and prepare the required documents early. Submit the complete application through the official grant listing.
State and City Grants for Minority and Women-Owned Businesses
Many states and cities offer grants and business funding programs designed to support minority-owned and women-owned businesses. These programs may be provided through local government offices, economic development agencies, or local nonprofit partners.
Black women entrepreneurs should check local programs regularly, because application windows can be short and funding may be limited.
Local grants can be less competitive, so while they don’t specifically offer business grants for black women, it’s easier to secure funding than with some popular black founder-focused programs.
IFundWomen Grants (IFW)
IFundWomen is a platform that posts business grant opportunities year-round, including programs that support women-owned businesses and diverse founders. It is not a single grant, but a collection of funding opportunities that change with current sponsors and application windows. Black women entrepreneurs can benefit by checking listings regularly and applying for grants that align with their industry, business stage, and goals.
