Women-owned businesses make up about 42% of all U.S. businesses, yet many still face challenges accessing financing to finance their operations. Business grants for women help meet essential entrepreneurial needs, such as equipment, staffing, product development, and more, without incurring debt.
But free funding opportunities are often highly competitive, so successful applications are not guaranteed. However, with adequate preparation and the right approach, there are grant programs and other valuable business resources worth exploring in 2026.
Amber Grant for Women
The Amber Grant, administered by Women’s Net, is one of the most well-known grant programs in the US, supporting women in various types of businesses, including early-stage startups.
The program awards three $10,000 grants every month: startup grants, category-specific grants, and general grants, plus three additional $50,000 Year-End Grants. The application process is straightforward; you’ll respond to a series of questions, including the purpose of your business and how you’ll use the funds if you succeed.
To apply, visit the official Women’s Net website, find the grant application page, and fill out the form.
Note: Before paying any application fee, always confirm that you are applying through the program’s official website. Unfortunately, fake grant websites and scam listings have become increasingly common online.
Related post: Amber Grant for Women: Eligibility, Funding, and How to Apply
IFundWomen Grants
IFundWomen is a funding platform that connects women entrepreneurs with grants, crowdfunding, coaching, and other funding opportunities. Rather than offering one permanent grant, IFundWomen partners with companies and organizations to provide sponsored grants to businesses that meet specific criteria.
Grant amounts and eligibility requirements vary depending on the opportunity. Some grants are designed for specific industries, business stages, or founder groups, while others are open to a broader range of entrepreneurs.
To get started, visit the IFundWomen website and and review the available grants and their individual eligibility requirements. You can also explore crowdfunding and other funding resources if a grant isn’t the right fit for your business.
Tip: Don’t forget to check this platform regularly, as grant opportunities rotate and some are only available for short periods.
Kitty Fund Mompreneur Business Grant (Founders First CDC)
If you are a mom who owns a business and is looking for funding to meet your practical entrepreneurial needs, consider the Kitty Fund Mompreneur Business Grant.
As its name suggests, this funding program is designed specifically for mother-led businesses in the US. Instead of offering a single large award, it provides multiple small-grant opportunities, usually $1,000, accessible to a broader range of applicants.
These microgrants can help with operations, equipment, or staffing. While it isn’t substantial funding, the Kitty Fund is one of the top business grants for women and can make a difference for your business. It’s essential to be informed about the opening date and have all your materials ready.
To apply, visit the Founders First CDC website and go to the Grants section. Select National Grants and then Kitty Fund. Review the Kitty Fund eligibility requirements and complete the application form.
Women Founders Network Fast Pitch Competition
The Women Founders Network Fast Pitch Competition gives women entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their businesses to investors and compete for cash prizes and other support. The program includes separate tracks for different business stages, helping founders connect with resources that match where they are in their growth.
The competition has awarded $55,000 in cash prizes, including major awards for winners in its two tracks, along with additional prizes and support. Participants can also receive coaching and mentorship as they prepare their pitches.
To apply, visit the Women Founders Network website, locate the Fast Pitch application page, and and check the requirements and application dates for the next competition.
Tip: Pitch competitions can help generate visibility for your business, but they do not have to be your only funding strategy. Many entrepreneurs strengthen their fundraising efforts by combining business grants and crowdfunding to build both financial support and audience validation at the same time.
HerRise MicroGrant
HerRise Microgrant is one of the US financial assistance programs that supports women of color who struggle to secure funding for their businesses.
The program relies on donations and sponsorships to fund its $ 1,000 monthly grants. This won’t be anything you’d be awarded in a big national grant program. Still, it can help you meet the immediate business needs, such as licensing, supplies, equipment, and marketing. You’ll have to pay a $15 fee to apply for funding.
The microgrant program operates regularly. During the application process, you’ll need to demonstrate how the funding will contribute to your business growth.
Visit the HerSuiteSpot website and locate the HerRise MicroGrant page. Complete the application form, clearly explaining what your business is about and how funding will improve its operations.
Related post: 14 Best Business Grants for Black Women
NASE (National Association for the Self-Employed) Growth Grants
NASE offers some of the best business grants for women. While not specifically for female entrepreneurs, Growth Grants provide up to $4,000 in funding for small businesses and self-employed individuals, which women can also apply for.
The funding, which is available to NASE members, can be used to meet specific business needs, including staffing, marketing, and equipment.
Since it’s a membership-based grant program, it’s essential to ensure you are eligible and meet membership requirements. It’s suitable for microbusinesses seeking small, yet practical funding.
To apply, become a NASE member and log in to your member account. Locate the Growth Grant section and review requirements. Apply with a clear explanation of how you’ll use the funds in your business.
Tip: Membership based funding programs can sometimes provide additional business benefits beyond grants, including training resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Cartier Women’s Initiative (U.S. Applicants Eligible)
The Cartier Women’s Initiative is committed to supporting women-impact entrepreneurs, and US-based founders are also eligible to apply.
The organization only funds businesses focused on creating positive, sustainable social and/or environmental impact. The winner receives $100,000, while the second- and third-place awardees receive $60,000 and $30,000, respectively.
In addition to funding support, Cartier’s Women offers opportunities for networking, visibility, and coaching.
Eligibility requirements are specific, and successful applications require a clear explanation of what their business is about and how it’s creating sustainable social and environmental impact.
To apply, visit the Cartier Women’s Initiative website and review eligibility rules. Prepare the required documents, including business details, impact metrics, and a plan for using funds.
Note: Large international grant programs are often highly competitive. Applications usually require detailed information about your business model, impact, and long term vision, so preparing early is important.
FedEx Small Business Grants Contest
FedEx’s contest offers one top business grants for women entrepreneurs. However, since the funding program is highly promoted, it attracts a large number of applicants, making it highly competitive.
The amount awarded typically varies from year to year, and you are required to submit your business story. You’ll also need to explain how this financing opportunity would help your business, and depending on the nature of the contest, you may participate in public voting.
If your brand has a compelling story and clear objectives, this may be a worthwhile opportunity to explore for funding. You can win up to $50,000 in the contest.
To get started, visit the FedEx small business grant contest website when applications open. Follow the instructions to submit your business details and story. Complete the required steps.
Note: Highly competitive funding programs often expect applicants to demonstrate clear business goals, financial organization, and measurable impact. Understanding how to know if you’re ready for funding can help you approach these opportunities more strategically.
Hello Alice Small Business Grants
Hello Alice connects small business owners with grants and other funding opportunities from corporate partners, government organizations, and nonprofit organizations. The platform regularly features different programs, so available funding, award amounts, and eligibility requirements can change.
Women entrepreneurs can find opportunities for different industries, business stages, and funding needs. Some grants are open nationally, while others target specific communities or types of businesses.
To find current opportunities, create an account on Hello Alice and complete your business profile. Browse active grant opportunities, confirm eligibility, and submit the application materials required for each grant before the deadline.
Related post: How to Track Your Business Grant Spending Without Hiring an Accountant
Boundless Futures Foundation’s Grants
Boundless Futures Foundation provides grants and other support to women entrepreneurs through programs focused on helping businesses create positive social and economic impact. Its EmpowHer Grants support women entrepreneurs working to address specific challenges in their communities.
Grant amounts and eligibility requirements vary by program and funding cycle. Applicants should review the current opportunity to determine whether their business and its goals align with the foundation’s priorities.
To apply, visit the Boundless Futures Initiative website and review its current grant programs, eligibility requirements, and application information.
YippityDoo Big Idea Grant
YippityDoo Big Idea Grant program supports women entrepreneurs with $1,000 monthly funding, which winners can use to finance any aspect of the business. In addition to the monthly microgrant, the program provides members with access to an online wealth-mindset coaching group and other business support services. You must be 18+ years old and have a US-based enterprise to qualify for funding.
Galaxy Grant for Growth
The Galaxy Grant provides funding opportunities for women and minority entrepreneurs through Galaxy of Stars. Grant amounts vary by program and funding cycle, with current opportunities including smaller cash grants designed to help entrepreneurs start or grow their businesses.
The program is open to eligible entrepreneurs in the United States, although specific requirements can vary depending on the grant. Applicants should check the current opportunity for details about business stage, ownership, and other eligibility criteria. To apply, visit Galaxy of Stars and review the current Galaxy Grant opportunity and application requirements.
Hay Helen Grant
Privately funded by Visionaries, Hey Helen is one of the best free business grants for women to consider in 2026. It awards $10,000 to women founders with impactful, mission-driven ventures. In addition to the funding, winners enjoy a feature on Visionaries platforms and optional press and visibility opportunities.
Whether you want to improve your operations, hire staff, enhance infrastructure, or market your products/services, the Hey Helen Grant can propel your business forward. U.S. based women entrepreneurs with businesses generating less than $1 million in annual revenue can apply. The program accepts applications from businesses at different stages, including some pre revenue ventures.
To apply, visit the Hey Helen Grant page and check the current application period, eligibility requirements, and application fee.
Women Founders Grant
Through the Women Founders Grant program, female founders can have access to a monthly funding of $5,000, which is awarded on a rolling basis. Additionally, winners receive mentorship services to support their ventures further.
To apply, you are required to respond to explain how you are translating your passion into a business and how the financial assistance will help you reach your goals. Application deadlines are posted on the grant program’s website.
Related post: Best States for Women’s Small Business Grants: A Complete Guide for 2026
State and Local Government Grants
Many counties, cities, and towns offer grant programs for small businesses, including specific opportunities for women entrepreneurs. In most cases, these grants, unlike national grants, aren’t widely promoted and are always geared toward achieving specific goals, such as job creation, neighborhood revitalization, and community impact.
Grants from economic development offices vary widely, from microgrants of $2,000-$10,000 to larger awards of $50,000-$100,000. Eligibility requirements vary, with some opportunities only accessible to residents of specific locations. Since they are not widely advertised, they attract fewer applicants than national grant programs and are thus less competitive.
To apply, visit your state, county, or city economic development office website, search for “small business grants,” and confirm eligibility for your location and business type. Apply through the official government portal and submit the required documentation.
Comcast RISE
Comcast RISE supports small businesses through a combination of financial assistance and business resources. Depending on the funding cycle, selected businesses may receive a cash grant along with marketing support, creative production, media placement, technology upgrades, or business consulting.
Recent cycles have included $5,000 monetary grants as part of a larger grant package. Eligibility, locations, award amounts, and other benefits can change from one cycle to another.
To apply, visit the Comcast RISE website and check whether applications are open in your area. Review the current eligibility requirements before applying.
Faire Small Business Grant
Faire offers a small business grant program designed to support new retail store owners. The funding, usually a $5,000 credit for buying wholesale inventory at Faire.com, is especially valuable for women entrepreneurs launching product-based businesses, boutiques, gift shops, lifestyle brands, or ecommerce stores.
Eligibility requirements may vary by funding cycle, but applicants are generally required to be opening a new retail business or preparing to launch a physical or online store.
To apply, visit the Faire website and locate the Small Business Grant page. Review the current requirements and complete the application before the stated deadline.
Visa She’s Next Grant Program
The Visa She’s Next Grant Program supports women-owned small businesses through grant funding, mentorship, and educational resources. The initiative is part of Visa’s broader effort to help women entrepreneurs access the financial support and business tools needed for growth.
Award amounts vary by funding cycle and region, but selected recipients may receive cash grants, along with coaching opportunities and networking support.
The program is open to women-owned businesses that meet the eligibility requirements outlined during each application period. Since deadlines and requirements may change, entrepreneurs should carefully review the current application guidelines before applying.
To get started, visit the Visa She’s Next website, complete the online application, and explain your business model, goals, and how funding would support your growth plans.
Related post: How to Write a Small Business Grant Proposal for Women Entrepreneurs
Women Who Tech Startup Grants
Women Who Tech supports women-led startups through startup competitions, pitch programs, and grant opportunities focused on innovation and technology.
The organization is known for supporting founders building scalable businesses in industries such as technology, health, sustainability, and digital services. Women Who Tech currently lists startup grant opportunities that include Innovation and Impact awards, with grant amounts and program structures can changing between funding cycles. All finalists getting access to investor exposure, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Because the organization focuses strongly on innovation and growth potential, applicants are usually expected to demonstrate a scalable business model and a clear long-term vision.
To apply, visit the Women Who Tech website and review the current grant opportunity, eligibility requirements, and application dates. Prepare your pitch materials, business information, and any supporting documents required during the application process.
Enthuse Foundation
The Enthuse Foundation offers business grants for women, which range from $2,500 to $5,000 per recipient, along with education, mentorship, and networking opportunities, designed to help founders grow sustainable businesses.
While the organization is better known for its founder support ecosystem than large recurring grants, it regularly provides resources that help women entrepreneurs strengthen their operations, improve visibility, and connect with business experts and funding opportunities.
The foundation is particularly valuable for early-stage founders seeking guidance alongside financial support. Program availability and funding opportunities may vary throughout the year.
To explore available opportunities, visit the Enthuse Foundation website and review current programs, eligibility details, and application requirements for women entrepreneurs.
Tip: The strongest grant applications usually explain not only why funding is needed, but also how the money will create measurable business growth over time.
Related post: Enthuse Foundation Grant: Eligibility, Funding, and How to Apply
Ladies Who Launch Launch Program
The Ladies Who Launch Launch Program supports women and nonbinary small business owners who are ready to grow with both funding and structured business training. It is a good fit for founders who want more than a one-time check and would benefit from education, mentorship, and a founder community.
The program has awarded $10,000 grants to selected women-led small businesses, along with an eight-week group training program, mentorship, and community support.
U.S.-based women and nonbinary business owners may qualify when a program round opens. The program focuses on independent small businesses, and eligibility rules may vary by cohort.
High Five Grant for Moms
The High Five Grant for Moms by the Mama Ladder supports mothers who own businesses and need funding to keep growing. It is a good fit for mom entrepreneurs who already have revenue and want funding that recognizes the realities of building a business while raising children.
The program awards cash grants to selected mom business owners. Past award levels have included a $10,000 grand prize, $5,000 first runner-up prize, and $2,500 second runner-up prize, along with additional business support.
Applicants must be mothers and own at least 50% of a for-profit business. Recent eligibility rules have focused on U.S. and Canada-based businesses with annual revenue between $10,000 and $500,000.
Entreprenista Evolve Grant
The Entreprenista Evolve Grant supports women founders who have moved beyond the earliest stage and are ready to invest in the next phase of growth. It is best for businesses that already have revenue and need funding for expansion, systems, marketing, staffing, or other growth-related needs.
The program awards a $5,000 grant to a selected woman-owned or woman-led business. Applicants must lead a U.S.-based business that is woman-owned or woman-led, has been operating for at least one year, and generates at least $100,000 in annual revenue.
Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant
The Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant supports women entrepreneurs who need funding to move past a business barrier. It is a smaller grant, but it fits well if you are looking for business grants for women because it focuses on helping female founders take the next step in business.
The program awards a $5,000 grants. Women entrepreneurs can apply when a grant round is open. Applicants should be ready to explain their business, the barrier they are trying to move through, and how the funding would help them make progress.
Related post: How to Talk About Failure in Business Grant Applications: Tips for 2026
Back in Business Recovery Fund
The Back in Business Recovery Fund provides financial support to women business owners whose businesses have been affected by federally or state declared disasters. The fund was created by 11:11 Media Impact in partnership with GoFundMe.org to help women entrepreneurs recover and rebuild after disasters.
Funding availability depends on disaster events and the resources available for each response. This is not a general business grant that is continuously open to all applicants.
To find out whether your business qualifies for support following a disaster, visit the Back in Business Recovery Fund information page and check for current funding announcements.
America’s Seed Fund SBIR/STTR
America’s Seed Fund, through the SBIR and STTR programs, supports small businesses developing research-based innovations. It is not only for women, but women-owned technology, science, health, energy, agriculture technology, software, and research-driven companies can apply when they meet the rules.
Phase I awards generally support early proof-of-concept work. Award amounts vary by agency, but SBIR.gov lists Phase I award amounts commonly ranging from $50,000 to $275,000, while some NSF SBIR/STTR Phase I proposals may request up to $305,000.
Applicants must be eligible U.S. small businesses. The business must be developing an innovative product, technology, or research-based solution that fits the participating federal agency’s funding priorities. STTR applicants also need a formal research institution partner.
Halstead Grant
The Halstead Grant supports emerging jewelry designers who are building new jewelry businesses. It is not women-only, but it can be useful for women entrepreneurs in jewelry, accessories, handmade products, and creative product businesses.
The winner receives a $7,500 cash grant, $1,000 in jewelry supplies, a trip to Halstead’s headquarters, a feedback report from the judging committee, press support, and industry visibility.
Applicants are emerging U.S. jewelry designers working primarily in sterling or fine silver. The business must be in its early years, and applicants should be serious about building a full-time jewelry career.
Foundation for Women’s Wellness Research Grants
The Foundation for Women’s Wellness provides research funding focused on women’s health. Its research grants are intended for qualified researchers working on projects that address important women’s health issues rather than general business expenses.
Recent awards have provided funding of around $25,000, although amounts and research priorities can change by funding cycle. Eligibility is more specialized than a typical small business grant and may require an academic, clinical, or research affiliation.
Tip: Highly specialized or technical grants often expect clear impact metrics and a detailed timeline. Clearly outlining how the funds will advance your research or prototype testing will strengthen your application.
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant
The Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant provides $10,000 grants to small businesses throughout the year. Verizon awards 10 grants each month from June through December in partnership with LISC, giving eligible businesses multiple opportunities to be selected.
To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old and own a for-profit small business based in the US, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands. You must also complete any combination of two eligible courses or events on Verizon Small Business Digital Ready to unlock the grant application.
To apply, create a free account on the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform, complete the required courses or events, and submit your grant application. Once submitted, your application remains eligible for the year’s remaining selections.
Breva Thrive Grant
The Breva Thrive Grant awards $5,000 each quarter to a small business making a measurable positive impact in its community. The grant is designed for early-stage and growing U.S. businesses that are creating meaningful economic or community impact.
Your business should have been operating for at least one year, although this is preferred rather than an absolute requirement. You must also be generating revenue, be formed under U.S. law, and operate in the United States. Businesses serving high-need ZIP codes or low to moderate income communities may receive preference.
To apply, visit the Breva Thrive Grant website, review the current quarterly deadline, and complete the online application. The program runs on a quarterly schedule, so if you miss one deadline, you can look out for the next cycle.
Giving Joy Grant
The Giving Joy Grant provides microgrants to women entrepreneurs who want to start or grow a business, nonprofit, or community focused initiative. Women ages 18 and older from around the world can apply, making this a useful option for women whose businesses or projects create a positive impact for women, girls, or families.
The grants are designed to help women turn ideas into action or strengthen existing ventures. Award amounts are smaller than those offered by many corporate grant programs, but the program can be useful for founders looking for early stage funding.
To apply, visit the Giving Joy Grants website and review the current application requirements and deadline. Prepare a clear explanation of your idea or business, its impact, and how the funding would help you move forward.
Grants.gov (Federal Grants Portal)
Grants.gov is the official U.S. government portal to source federal grants for women-owned businesses. While they aren’t specifically designed for female founders, you can qualify as long as the program’s purpose and your business structure align.
It’s worth noting that many federal grants are project-based and may focus on research, training, education, community programs, or specialized industries. Also, you may need more time than expected to complete the application for some of the funding opportunities, which makes it essential to start early.
To get started, search Grants.gov for opportunities related to your industry and project type. Then register for required accounts and complete verification steps early. Follow the agency’s instructions and submit all required forms by the deadline.
Conclusion
Finding the right business grants for women takes time, research, and preparation, but the opportunities are out there. From microgrants and pitch competitions to corporate funding programs and federal resources, women entrepreneurs now have more pathways to business funding than ever before.
The key is to apply strategically rather than randomly. Focus on opportunities that align with your business stage, industry, and long term goals. Keep your business information organized, track deadlines carefully, and do not get discouraged if you do not succeed immediately. Many successful founders apply multiple times before securing funding.
Most importantly, remember that grants are only one part of building a sustainable business. The strongest businesses combine preparation, visibility, smart funding decisions, and long term growth planning.
Quinter Auma is a senior writer with nearly seven years of experience in digital content. Her work has been featured on TheTravel, Sixty and Me, Digital Zen, Africa OTR, among other publications. She’s also the founder of The African Traveler, a go-to resource for destination guides, practical tips, and authentic travel insights. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending quality time with her little boy.