11 Best Business Grants for Women in Alabama

Women entrepreneurs in Alabama can obtain funding through grants, pitch competitions, and business programs. Grants don’t need to be repaid, but many are competitive. The best approach is to apply to several opportunities and get support from free programs like SBDC and SCORE to strengthen your applications. Discover business grants for women in Alabama.

Amber Grant

The Amber Grant is one of the most well-known business grants for women, giving three $10,000 grants every month to female founders in the US and Canada. Winners also qualify for year-end $25,000 grants. The application is short and focuses on your business story and goals. You must be at least 18 and own at least 50% of the business.

HerRise MicroGrant

HerRise awards $1,000 each month to female founders, with a strong focus on women of color. It’s a good option if you need help covering the costs of marketing, a website, equipment, or other essential business expenses. Your business must be at least 51% women-owned, U.S.-based, and have annual revenue under $1 million.

Fund Her Future (H&R Block / Block Advisors)

The Fund Her Future Grant is a national business grant program offered by H&R Block in partnership with Hello Alice, and provides one $50,000 grant and five $10,000 grants. Winners may also receive business support services, such as bookkeeping and tax assistance. It’s for established female entrepreneurs and often requires proof of revenue (for example, a minimum revenue amount from the previous year). Watch deadlines closely, as they can change annually.

Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program

Innovate Alabama’s Supplemental Grant Program is one of the top tech-focused business grants for women in Alabama. It provides extra funding for companies that already received a federal SBIR/STTR award. Grants may cover up to 50% of the federal award, with amounts ranging from $100,000 to $250,000, depending on your phase. Best for startups building or commercializing new technology.

Federal SBIR/STTR Grants (Tech + Research)

SBIR and STTR are among the federal grants for women-owned businesses, which fund research, prototypes, and product development. Well, they aren’t exclusively for women, but anyone can compete and win. Phase I often supports early testing, while Phase II funds deeper development. These grants can be large, but they require strong proposals, clear technical plans, and documented innovation.

Alabama Launchpad (Pitch Competition)

Alabama Launchpad is a statewide competition that awards funding to early-stage businesses, often with a focus on technology and scalable ideas. Winners receive cash awards and gain exposure to investors, mentors, and business leaders. If your business is new but has strong growth potential, this can be a good way to raise non-dilutive funding and build credibility.

Montgomery County Small Business Grants (Local Program)

Some local governments offer some of the best business grants for women in Alabama. Many of these funding opportunities focus on small businesses and startups. Montgomery County’s grant program has supported small business growth through local partnerships. These grants may have limited funding and specific rules based on location, business type, or community goals. Check eligibility and application windows through the local business support office.

PNC Bank Birmingham Initiative (Local Grant Support)

Some corporate and community programs offer funding to businesses in underserved areas, including those owned by women of color. The PNC Birmingham initiative supports companies in lower-income regions. These programs may not operate year-round, and funding rules are subject to change. If you qualify, their funding can help with capital for expansion, staffing, or product improvements.

Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Certification

This is not a grant, but it can lead to substantial funding through federal contracts specifically designed for women-owned businesses in Alabama. If your company is at least 51% women-owned and meets SBA size standards, certification can help you compete for contracts with less competition. It’s a smart move for service providers, consultants, and product suppliers.

Alabama OMBE Certification (State Contract Access)

Alabama’s Office of Minority Business Enterprise (OMBE) offers certification for women-owned businesses. This can help you access state contracting opportunities and get listed in official directories used by agencies and large buyers. Requirements may include proof of ownership and a history of operation. It’s a good option if you plan to sell to state agencies or large contractors.

IFundWomen Universal Grant Application (Ongoing Opportunities)

IFundWomen is a funding program that offers some of the best business grants for women in Alabama. It connects female entrepreneurs to grant opportunities sponsored by corporate partners. Instead of applying for one grant at a time, you submit a single “universal” application and may be matched with multiple funding opportunities. IFundWomen also offers coaching, training, and community support. It’s helpful if you want consistent access to new grant programs over time.