Raising capital is critical to the success of many companies. However, women-owned businesses face unequal challenges when it comes to securing business financing and investments. Despite the fact that women owned more than 40% of businesses in the U.S. by 2019, almost 98% of venture capital for new startups went to male founders in 2020.

When business loans and equity financing prove difficult to come by, you can consider business grants. Now Competition for business grants can be high, but, but if you qualify, you can gain an infusion of cash for your company that you never have to repay. Finding business grants for startups can be a great way to secure funding without taking on debt. However, it’s important to note that these opportunities can vary based on factors such as your location, industry, and the nature of your business.

Remember to thoroughly research each opportunity, understand the eligibility criteria, and tailor your applications accordingly. Additionally, be cautious of potential scams or fraudulent organizations claiming to offer grants. Legitimate grant opportunities typically do not require an upfront payment. So I will be sharing 25 organisations that support women entrepreneurs and also share some other in way you can find financing for your startup, let’s begin:

1. Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant Program: This program provides grants to women-owned businesses that are beyond the startup phase and are ready to expand
2. Cartier Women’s Initiative: This international initiative aims to support and recognize women entrepreneurs. They provide funding, coaching, and networking opportunities.
3. Amber Grant Foundation: The Amber Grant is a small business grant for women. It is awarded monthly, and at the end of the year, one of the monthly winners is selected for an additional grant.
4. SheEO: SheEO is a global community that supports, finances, and celebrates women entrepreneurs. They offer a unique funding model called the “radical generosity” model.
5. Grants.gov: is a comprehensive database of federal grant opportunities in the United States. While it includes grants for various purposes, women entrepreneurs may find relevant opportunities by searching for business-related grants.

6. The Tory Burch Foundation: provides support to women entrepreneurs through access to capital, education, and networking opportunities. They offer the Tory Burch Fellows Program, which includes a grant and mentorship.
7. Women’s Venture Fund: provides both financing and business development assistance to women entrepreneurs in the New York metropolitan area. They focus on helping women build sustainable businesses
8. WEConnect International: WEConnect International is a global network that connects women-owned businesses to qualified buyers around the world. They offer resources, certification, and opportunities for women entrepreneurs to access global markets.
9. Global Fund for Women: While not business-focused, the Global Fund for Women supports women’s rights and provides grants for initiatives that empower women economically, socially, and politically.
10. Zahara Foundation: aims to empower women economically through entrepreneurship. They provide support, training, and funding to women-led businesses, particularly in developing countries.

11. Women Who Tech: offers grants and pitch competitions to women-led tech startups. They aim to provide support and visibility for women entrepreneurs in the technology sector.
12. Springboard Enterprises: is a network that supports women-led businesses in technology and life sciences. They offer programs, mentoring, and access to investors.
13. Astia: Astia is a global organization that supports women-led high-growth businesses. They provide access to capital, networks, and expertise to help women entrepreneurs succeed.
14. SheStarts: is an Australian-based accelerator program for female founders. They provide funding, mentorship, and resources to support the growth of women-led startups.

15. The Halstead Grant: If you’re a maker of silver jewelry, you may be interested in applying for the Halstead Grant. The Halstead Grant gives new silver jewelry artists—women and men alike—the opportunity to apply to receive a $7,500 start-up grant plus other benefits they can use to grow their business.
16. The Girlboss Foundation Grant: offers grants for creative female entrepreneurs. To be eligible for the semi-annual grant, you’ll need to have a women-owned business that operates in the arts, design, music or fashion industries.
17. National Association for the Self-Employed Growth Grants: the program awards cash grants of $4,000 to women and men small business owners. Winners can use grant funds for any of the following
18. IFundWomen Grant: is an online marketplace where women entrepreneurs can seek funding for their businesses. The database includes multiple grant opportunities with varying criteria, funding amounts and deadlines.
19. Freed Fellowship Grant: offers the chance for applicants to get $500 in funding alongside free mentorship as well as entrance into a $2,500 end-of-year giveaway.

20. HerRise Micro-Grant: Through this organization, donors and sponsors contribute money to women of color entrepreneurs needing capital, coaching and community. Every month, a $1,000 micro-grant is awarded to one female business owner of color. Past recipients have used grants to purchase business equipment, marketing, website creation and more.
21. Atomic Grant: awards women entrepreneurs passionate about changing their lives and the lives of others. Each winner receives a $1,500 grant, coaching and a free year subscription to Passion Collective.
22. You Glow Girl Woman Entrepreneur Grant:  is offered by Eat Me Guilt Free, a line of health food products, the program supports one female entrepreneur in expanding her business by providing her a $10,000 grant. Additional prizes include a one-year supply of Eat Me Guilt Free items, mentoring from Cristie Besu, founder and CEO of Eat Me Guilt Free, and a physical health and wellness product.
23. Galaxy Grant: is a program launched by the nonprofit Hidden Star. The program’s focus is to ensure the success of women or minority entrepreneurs by awarding the winner a $2,500 grant.
24. Enthuse Foundation: Designed to support women entrepreneurs in the food, beverage or CPG industry, the Enthuse Foundation awards a $10,000 grand prize and a $5,000 runner prize. Winners also receive marketing support from Enthuse to help grow their businesses. To be eligible, businesses must be at least 51 percent women-owned and have been in operation for less than four years.
25. Fearless Strivers Grant: In collaboration with MasterCard, the Fearless Fund created the Fearless Strivers Grant to improve access to venture capital funding for small businesses. Four black women-owned small businesses will each receive a $20,000 grant, as well as digital tools and mentorship to encourage the growth of their business.

Always make sure to check the eligibility criteria and application processes for each program or organization, as they may have specific requirements for participation. Additionally, keep an eye out for new opportunities and organizations that may emerge in the future. Remember that networking and building relationships within the startup ecosystem can also open doors to additional funding and support. Wishing you success and always rooting for you, let me know where you are at on your journey! Would love to hear from you!

Xo,

Ange