20 Small Business Grants for Women in 2026 | Cocountant
Check out our list of 20 verified small business grants for women entrepreneurs (2025)
Our two bonus checklists are designed to guide women entrepreneurs like you through everything they need to have in place before applying for a grant.
- Grant application checklist
- Bookkeeping checklist for grant readiness
13.8 million.
That’s how many women-owned businesses operate in the U.S. today — making up over 42% of all U.S. businesses and generating nearly $2 trillion in revenue annually.
From launching consulting firms to running bakeries, women entrepreneurs are a driving force in the economy—owning over 1 in 5 micro-businesses and nearly a third of all small and medium-sized enterprises. But despite their growing presence, many women entrepreneurs still don’t have the same access to funding as men.
In fact, there’s a $1.7 trillion global financing gap holding women-owned businesses back. This lack of funding slows down growth, limits hiring, and in many cases, puts promising businesses at risk.
That’s where small business grants come in, providing free money you don’t have to repay, designed to help women-led businesses thrive. The problem? They’re often buried in outdated directories, with scattered eligibility criteria and hard-to-track deadlines.
So…
We’ve done the legwork to curate and verify 20 small business grants for women entrepreneurs in 2025 — from national programs backed by major corporations to federal initiatives and local community grants. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale, this guide will help you:
- Discover relevant, up-to-date grant opportunities
- Understand what each grant offers and how to qualify
- Find funding specific to your industry or identity (moms, veterans, women of color, etc.)
- Learn what steps to take to strengthen your frant application
5 things you must know before applying for a small business grant
Before you start filling out applications, there are a few key things every woman entrepreneur should be aware of. These don’t just help you get organized — they can seriously improve your chances of actually winning funding.
1. Grants are competitive — and that’s a good thing
There are thousands of women-owned small businesses applying for the same opportunities. That might sound intimidating, but here’s the upside: grant reviewers are actively looking for women like you — women who are solving problems, building impact-driven brands, and moving their communities forward. Your story matters just as much as your numbers.
Tip: Don’t be shy about highlighting your “why.” Use your mission, values, or origin story as part of your pitch.
2. You’ll need more than just a great idea
Even if your business is innovative and impactful, most grant applications require you to back that up with proof of traction. This usually includes:
- Financial records (profit & loss statements, cash flow)
- A clearly defined business model
- A realistic plan for how you’ll use the funds
- Any measurable impact you’ve already created (jobs created, community served, etc.)
Tip: If your books aren’t clean or up-to-date, now’s the time to fix that. Many great applications are disqualified because of messy or incomplete financials.
3. Your business structure matters
Some grants are only available to LLCs, others to sole proprietors or nonprofits. Some require your business to be 51% woman-owned. Always double-check the eligibility criteria before applying so you don’t waste time on the wrong fit.
Tip: Use a spreadsheet to track each grant’s eligibility and application requirements side by side. (We’ll give you a starter checklist at the end of this guide.)
4. You can (and should) apply to more than one grant
There’s no rule saying you can only apply for one. In fact, successful founders apply to several at once — just make sure to tailor your responses for each one. Copy-pasting generic answers will hurt your chances.
Tip: Start with 3–5 grants that closely match your business’s industry, stage, or mission. Prioritize the ones with deadlines coming up soonest.
5. Good bookkeeping = better chances
At the heart of every strong grant application is financial clarity. If you don’t know how much you’re earning, what your expenses look like, or where the money will go, grant reviewers will notice.
Solid bookkeeping helps you:
- Show credibility and business stability
- Make a stronger case for how funds will be used
- Prove you can handle the money responsibly
Tip: If you’ve been DIYing your books or haven’t reconciled them in a while, a bookkeeping cleanup may be your best next step before applying.
Small business grants for women
1. Amber Grant (by WomensNet)
One of the most recognized and accessible small business grants for women, the Amber Grant was established in memory of Amber Wigdahl, a young woman who passed away before fulfilling her entrepreneurial dreams. Today, WomensNet honors her legacy by awarding $10,000 monthly to three women-owned businesses — with no industry restrictions. At year’s end, three of those winners are selected for an additional $25,000.
Unlike many grant programs, the Amber Grant is refreshingly straightforward. There’s no complex business plan or pitch deck required — just an honest, written explanation of your business and what you’d do with the funds.
Grant amount:
$10,000 monthly + $25,000 year-end
Who it’s for:
Women-owned businesses in the U.S. or Canada
Why it stands out:
Simple application + no time-in-business requirement
📅 Next deadline:
Applications accepted year-round
Apply here: ambergrantsforwomen.com
2. IFundWomen Universal Grant Application
IFundWomen is a grant marketplace and coaching platform that connects women entrepreneurs with corporate grant partners like Visa, Neutrogena, and American Express. You submit one universal application, and IFundWomen matches your business with relevant opportunities as they arise — saving you time and effort.
This program is ideal for founders who want to get in front of multiple funders without constantly reapplying. It also offers business coaching, crowdfunding support, and access to a community of female founders.
Grant amount:
Varies depending on the partner
Who it’s for:
Women-owned businesses across all industries
Why it stands out:
One application = access to multiple grants
📅 Next deadline:
Rolling basis
Apply here: ifundwomen.com/grants
3. HerRise Microgrant
Created by the Yva Jourdan Foundation (via HerSuiteSpot), this grant is tailored to support under-resourced women entrepreneurs, especially women of color. Each month, one business receives $1,000 to help cover operational or startup costs — no pitch event, and no revenue minimum required.
The goal? To make funding more accessible for overlooked founders who are often left out of traditional grant and investment opportunities. With a low barrier to entry and a focused mission, this microgrant delivers real value — fast.
Grant amount:
$1,000
Who it’s for:
Women of color with less than $1M in gross revenue
Why it stands out:
Monthly cycles + low barrier to entry
📅 Next deadline:
Last day of each month
Apply here: hersuitespot.com/herrise
4. YippityDoo Big Idea Grant
YippityDoo may sound playful, but its mission is serious: helping women entrepreneurs build financially empowered lives. Each month, the organization awards $1,000 to a woman-owned business — whether you’re just launching or already growing. In addition to funding, winners receive access to a wealth mindset coaching membership for one year.
Applicants must be 18+, located in the U.S., and submit a brief application explaining their business idea. The process is light and community-focused, making it a great choice for early-stage founders looking for support beyond just money.
Grant amount:
$1,000
Who it’s for:
Women at any stage of their entrepreneurial journey
Why it stands out:
Combines funding with mindset coaching
📅 Next deadline:
Rolling monthly
Apply here: yippitydoo.com/grant
5. Galaxy Grant (by Hidden Star)
This grant supports women and minority small business owners through Hidden Star, a nonprofit committed to removing systemic barriers to funding. The Galaxy Grant offers $1,500 in funding per cycle and is open to businesses of all types and stages. What sets it apart is its focus on equity — prioritizing those who often face extra hurdles in accessing capital.
The application process is simple, and you don’t need to already be profitable to qualify. Whether you’re starting out or need help stabilizing your operations, this grant can provide that first crucial boost.
Grant amount:
$1,500
Who it’s for:
Women and minority entrepreneurs across the U.S.
Why it stands out:
Equity-driven with minimal requirements
📅 Next deadline:
March 31, 2025
Apply here: galaxyofstars.org/galaxy-grant
6. BMO Celebrating Women Grant Program
BMO Bank, in collaboration with Deloitte, offers this grant to support women-owned small businesses that are actively working to grow, innovate, and impact their communities. The grant is available in 24 U.S. states and provides a financial boost to women entrepreneurs who often struggle to secure funding through traditional means.
To qualify, your business must be at least 51% women-owned, operate in one of the eligible states, and have been in business for at least two years with under $5M in annual revenue. This grant is ideal for founders with a solid foundation and clear growth plans.
Grant amount:
$10,000
Who it’s for:
Women-owned businesses in select U.S. states
Why it stands out:
Corporate-backed grant with a focus on growth and innovation
📅 Next deadline:
To be announced for 2025
Apply here: bmoforwomen.com
7. Tory Burch Foundation Fellowship
This year-long fellowship is more than just a grant — it’s a full support ecosystem for women business owners. The program offers $5,000 in education grants, 0% interest Kiva loans, workshops, peer networking, and a trip to the Tory Burch offices for an immersive experience.
It’s highly competitive, but if you’re selected, you join a powerful community of ambitious women entrepreneurs and gain national exposure along with strategic business support.
Grant amount:
$5,000 (plus access to Kiva loans and business training)
Who it’s for:
U.S.-based women founders of for-profit businesses
Why it stands out:
Combines funding with education, exposure, and 1:1 mentorship
📅 Next deadline:
Applications reopen Fall 2025
Apply here: toryburchfoundation.org
8. High Five Grant for Moms (by The Mama Ladder)
Built for moms at every stage — from new mothers to seasoned entrepreneurs — this grant was created to support women who balance caregiving with growing a business. Hosted by The Mama Ladder, it’s unique in that finalists are selected by both a judging panel and a public vote, adding a community-driven component.
Winners receive $10,000 (first place), $5,000 (second place), and $2,500 (third place), along with smaller grants for honorable mentions. It’s a rare grant that recognizes the dual demands of motherhood and entrepreneurship.
Grant amount:
Up to $10,000
Who it’s for:
Moms running businesses at any stage
Why it stands out:
Community voting + judge panel makes it a unique and engaging process
📅 Next deadline:
September 1–30, 2025
Apply here: themamaladder.com/grant
9. Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards
A prestigious global program, the Cartier Women’s Initiative supports early-stage, for-profit businesses that aim to make a social or environmental impact. Applicants must be women in leadership roles (founder or CEO), and their business must have been generating revenue for at least one year.
The grant is offered in nine regions globally, with $100,000 for first place, $60,000 for second, and $30,000 for third. In addition to funding, awardees receive executive coaching, training workshops, and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
Grant amount:
$30,000 to $100,000
Who it’s for:
Women-led social or environmental impact businesses
Why it stands out:
Global visibility + world-class mentorship
📅 Next deadline:
April 18, 2025
Apply here: cartierwomensinitiative.com
10. Women Founders Network Fast Pitch Competition
This pitch competition is designed to help women founders get their businesses in front of investors and industry leaders. Applicants must be U.S.-based, have raised less than $750,000 in funding, and be female-founded or led.
Finalists present live in Los Angeles, with winners receiving $25,000 in grants and opportunities for media exposure and strategic partnerships. The competition also offers mentorship, networking, and feedback from seasoned entrepreneurs and investors.
Grant amount:
$25,000
Who it’s for:
Female-led businesses that haven’t raised over $750K
Why it stands out:
Combines funding with high-stakes live pitching + media exposure
📅 Next deadline:
April 1 – May 31, 2025
Apply here: womenfoundersnetwork.com
11. ZenBusiness Grant Program
ZenBusiness helps entrepreneurs form and grow their businesses, and their grant program supports new business owners who launched through their platform. If you’ve started your business with ZenBusiness within the last three to six months, you may be eligible for a $5,000 grant, plus access to helpful ZenBusiness tools.
It’s a simple, supportive program focused on helping startups get off the ground with a little extra funding and some solid business infrastructure.
Grant amount:
$5,000
Who it’s for:
New businesses formed using ZenBusiness
Why it stands out:
Direct support for early-stage startups just getting off the ground
📅 Next deadline:
Accepted quarterly
Apply here: zenbusiness.com/grant-program
12. Faire Small Business Grant
Retail entrepreneurs, take note: Faire’s Small Business Grant supports brand-new and soon-to-launch retail business owners. It’s ideal if you’re opening a store in 2025 or 2026, or recently launched one in 2024.
This grant is a great fit for retail founders looking to cover startup costs, invest in inventory, or build out their physical or digital storefronts.
Grant amount:
$5,000
Who it’s for:
Retail business owners launching in 2024–2026
Why it stands out:
Retail-focused with flexibility on launch stage
📅 Next deadline:
March 31, 2025
Apply here: faire.com/grant
13. Start.Pivot.Grow Grant
Start.Pivot.Grow offers quarterly micro-grants to small businesses that have moved past the initial startup stage but still need help growing. Your business must be at least two years old, employ 1–2 people, and make at least $50,000 in annual revenue to qualify.
It’s an excellent opportunity for established solopreneurs or very small teams looking to level up with extra funds for marketing, equipment, or hiring.
Grant amount:
$2,500
Who it’s for:
Small teams past the startup phase
Why it stands out:
Focuses on stability and sustainable growth
📅 Next deadline:
Rolling applications
Apply here: startpivotgrow.com
14. Enthuse Foundation Pitch Competition
Focused on consumer packaged goods (CPG), food, and beverage businesses, this annual pitch competition lets women founders showcase their brand in front of judges and a live audience. Finalists pitch in-person in New York City, competing for $15,000 (grand prize), $10,000 (runner-up), and $3,000 (audience favorite).
It’s more than funding — it’s also media visibility, industry connections, and validation from CPG experts.
Grant amount:
Up to $15,000
Who it’s for:
Female founders in food, beverage, or CPG
Why it stands out:
Combines funding with live pitching, media buzz, and industry exposure
📅 Next deadline:
To be announced for 2025
Apply here: enthusefoundation.org
15. Fund Her Future (by Block Advisors)
Block Advisors by H&R Block created Fund Her Future to provide both funding and professional services for women business owners. The grand prize is a $50,000 grant, while four additional winners receive $12,500 each. Winners also get a year of bookkeeping, payroll, and tax support — which can be a game-changer.
The program supports women with clear growth plans and a desire to scale. It’s ideal for founders ready to take their business to the next level but need both funding and back-office support.
Grant amount:
$12,500 to $50,000 + services
Who it’s for:
Women founders with growth plans and a need for expert support
Why it stands out:
Grant + full year of back-office support (bookkeeping, tax, payroll)
📅 Next deadline:
TBA for 2025
Apply here: blockadvisors.com/fundherfuture
16. Dream Makers Founders Grant (Fifteen Percent Pledge)
This grant is a collaboration between the Fifteen Percent Pledge and major retail partners to support women-owned businesses led by entrepreneurs of color. Five winners each receive $25,000 to grow their business, along with access to the Business Equity Community — a curated network designed to open doors for scaling.
It’s best suited for founders with some traction and a product or service that could scale with the right exposure and funding.
Grant amount:
$25,000
Who it’s for:
Women of color with 2–10 employees and $100k–$1M in revenue
Why it stands out:
Prioritizes community building and minority representation in retail
📅 Next deadline:
TBA for 2025
Apply here: fifteenpercentpledge.org/grants
17. Stacy’s Rise Project
Backed by Stacy’s Pita Chips and Hello Alice, the Stacy’s Rise Project awards $25,000 grants to 15 women-owned businesses annually — especially those in the food and beverage space. Along with funding, winners get executive mentorship, peer networking, and brand visibility through FoundedByHer.org.
It’s one of the few grants that also includes a strategic marketing boost and industry guidance tailored to consumer-facing brands.
Grant amount:
$25,000
Who it’s for:
Women founders, especially in food and beverage
Why it stands out:
Combines funding with mentorship, peer learning, and exposure
📅 Next deadline:
TBA for 2025
Apply here: helloalice.com/stacysriseproject
18. Waves of Change Grant
This grant is for early-stage women of color entrepreneurs generating less than $50,000 in revenue annually. The “grant” is a bit unique — it’s a mix of donated expert services and a stipend to help with business operations.
If you’re in your first year or two and need more than just cash — like legal help, branding, or accounting — this grant gives you holistic support to build a stronger foundation.
Grant amount:
Service-based + stipend
Who it’s for:
Women of color with early-stage businesses under $50,000 revenue
Why it stands out:
Focus on hands-on services to accelerate growth
📅 Next deadline:
Currently closed — sign up for 2025 updates
Apply here: wavesofchangegrant.com
19. She’s Connected by AT&T
This nationwide grant supports women-owned businesses with fewer than 51 employees. The grand prize winner receives $50,000 and free AT&T service for a year. Four runner-ups receive $5,000 microgrants.
Winners are also featured in a docu-style web series, offering visibility that goes well beyond just a financial award. It’s ideal for founders ready for both capital and storytelling spotlight.
Grant amount:
$5,000–$50,000 + exposure + AT&T services
Who it’s for:
Women founders with small teams (under 51 employees)
Why it stands out:
Exposure via branded media + strong tech partner backing
📅 Next deadline:
TBA for 2025
Apply here: att.com/smallbusiness/sheisconnected
20. StartHER Grant (Texas Woman's University)
This grant is for Texas-based businesses that are at least 51% women-owned. The StartHER grant awards $5,000 to help fund business-related costs — from equipment to marketing to training.
Whether you’re starting out or need capital to expand, it’s a great local opportunity with minimal strings attached, especially if you’re operating in Texas.
Grant amount:
$5,000
Who it’s for:
Women-owned businesses in Texas
Why it stands out:
State-specific grant for a wide range of business uses
📅 Next deadline:
August 26 – September 26, 2025
Apply here: twu.edu/center-women-entrepreneurs
You’ve got the list of grants. Now make sure your books can back your grant applications up.
Most funders want proof that your business is financially ready and responsible. If your books aren’t clean, your chances drop even if your idea is great.
Want expert eyes on your numbers, or a second set of hands to get your financials cleaned up and ready? We’re here for that, too.
Let CoCountant help you prep your books for grant-readiness. Our bookkeeping services keep your statements accurate, organized, and audit-ready—exactly what funders want to see.
Want to apply with confidence?