Small Business Grants for Women-Owned Businesses [2026 Guide]

Key Takeaways

Women-owned businesses have access to hundreds of federal, state, local, and private grants that provide non-repayable funding.

Federal grants rarely offer general cash but focus on research, innovation, rural development, and government contracting opportunities.

State and local grants are often less competitive and frequently prioritize women entrepreneurs and underserved communities.

Private grants, such as the Amber Grant, IFundWomen, and Stacy’s Rise Project, offer flexible, equity-free funding with simpler applications.

Many well-known grants, including the Nav Small Business Grant and FedEx Small Business Grant, are currently paused or retired, making it essential to track updated alternatives.

Working with Women’s Business Centers (WBCs), SBDCs, and local economic development offices can uncover grant opportunities not listed in national databases.

It is common for small business owners to struggle with managing finances. Inconsistent cash flow and unexpected expenses can quickly strain a business’s bank account.

For women entrepreneurs, the challenge is often greater. Women own more than 12 million businesses in the U.S. These businesses employ over 10.7 million workers. However, many still face bias and limited access to traditional funding from customers, employees, and investors. [1]

Fortunately, women-owned business grants and resources help close this gap. Grants provide funding from government agencies or private organizations. Unlike loans, they don’t need to be repaid.

There are hundreds of federal, local, and private grants available that women business owners can utilize.

Below are some of the best women-owned business grants designed specifically for women entrepreneurs.

Federal Grants

Federal small business grants are offered by the U.S. government to support specific industries, locations, and innovation-driven projects.

Unlike private grants, federal funding is rarely provided as general startup or operating cash. Instead, it focuses on:

• Research
• Technology development
• Rural growth
• Government contracting opportunities

One of the best places to search for federal grants is Grants.gov. It is the official database that lists every federally sponsored grant program. You can filter opportunities by eligibility, industry, or funding agency to find programs open to small and women-owned businesses.

Before applying for most federal grants, you will need to complete a few required setup steps. Businesses must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) by registering with theU.S. System for Award Management.[2] The UEI has replaced the former DUNS number and is required to apply for grants or federal contracts. You will also need to create an active Grant.gov account to submit applications.

Key Federal Funding Programs for Women-Owned Businesses

1. Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract Program

This program is not a direct grant. It provides access to federal contracts that are set aside exclusively for certified women-owned businesses. The federal government aims to award at least 5% of all contracting dollars to WOSBs to reduce competition for eligible businesses.

2. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)

These are often referred to as America’s Seed Fund. These competitive programs provide non-repayable funding to small businesses engaged in scientific research or technological innovation.

Funding Details

• Phase I awards: up to $314,363.[3]
• Phase II awards: up to $2,095,748.
• Higher amounts require an SBA waiver.

SBIR and STTR are well-suited for women-owned small businesses, especially those operating in technology-focused sectors such as:

• Healthcare
• Agriculture
• Defense
• Energy

3. USDA Rural Business Development Grants

Women-owned businesses in rural areas may benefit indirectly from USDA Rural Business Development Grants, which fund:

• Public entities
• Nonprofits
• Tribal organizations

These grants are designed to strengthen rural economies and small enterprises through community-based economic development projects.

State and Local Grants

These grants are non-repayable funds offered by state, county, or city agencies to support local economic development. These grants are often less competitive than federal grants. They frequently prioritize women-owned businesses, startups, and businesses in underserved or rural areas.

Unlike federal grants, state and local programs are highly targeted. Funding is usually tied to:

• Specific industries
• Geographic locations
• Community goals

Availability can change yearly based on state budgets, so business owners should regularly check their state or city economic development websites.

Many current programs are funded through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). [4] SSBCI distributes federal funding to states to support:

• Women
• Minority
• Underserved entrepreneurs

These funds may be offered as:

• Microgrants
• Forgivable funding
• Local grant programs
• Administered at the state or city level.

Women’s Business Centers (WBCs)

These are SBA-funded organizations that provide free or low-cost training, mentoring, and funding guidance to women entrepreneurs.

There are more than 140 WBCs nationwide. WBCs do not usually provide direct cash grants. Instead, they are one of the best resources for finding state and local grant opportunities, including programs that are not widely advertised.[5]

WBCs help women business owners:

• Find state and city grants
• Prepare grant and loan applications
• Navigate SSBCI-funded programs
• Prepare for government contracting

WBCs also support the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program. [6] Eligible businesses can pursue WOSB or Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) certification to access federal contract set-asides. Eligibility can be checked using the MySBA Certifications Tool.[7]

Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)

It is a nonprofit organization that supports women-owned businesses through certification, education, and corporate connections. WBENC provides access to:

• Business competitions
• Scholarship and training programs
• Corporate and nonprofit grant opportunities

WBENC-certified businesses may also gain increased visibility with large corporations that actively seek women-owned suppliers, creating revenue opportunities beyond traditional grants. [8]

Local Economic Development Offices & City Grants

Many cities and counties offer local grants and microgrants to support neighborhood revitalization and small business growth. These programs are commonly administered by:

• Economic Development Corporations (EDCs)
• City or county business offices
• Local Chambers of Commerce

Common local funding programs include:

• Main Street or storefront improvement grants
• Microgrants for brick-and-mortar businesses
• Workforce training or hiring incentives

These programs are location-specific, and grant amounts and requirements vary. A local WBS or Small Business Development Center (SBDC) can help identify active programs in your area.

Quick Tip: State and local grants change frequently and may open or close with little notice. Check your state’s Department of Commerce website and work with a local Women’s Business Center to find funding opportunities that never appear in national grant databases.

Private Grants

Private grants for women-owned businesses are equity-free funding opportunities offered by corporations, nonprofits, and foundations.

These grants often have:

• Simpler applications
• Fewer restrictions
• Rolling or monthly deadlines

Many are available exclusively to women entrepreneurs. Below are 12 well-known private grants to consider as you begin your search.

1. Amber Grants

The Amber Grant for women awards three $10,000 grants each month to women-owned businesses, including the:

• Monthly Amber Grant
• Monthly Startup Grant
• Business Category Grant

The program was founded by WomensNet in 1998 in memory of Amber Wigdahl. This Amber Grant program offers a $50,000 Year-End Grant to one winner from each grant type. [9]

Eligibility

Open to women 18 years or older who own at least 50% of a business based in the United States or Canada.

Eligible businesses include:

• Pre-revenue ventures
• Idea-stage startups
• Revenue-generating nonprofit organizations

Business Category Grants rotate each month, covering fields like Skilled Trades, Health & Fitness, Food & Beverage, STEM, Creative Arts, and Fashion & Interior Design.

Application

Complete the official online application. A $15 application fee applies, with fee waivers available for financial hardship. A single application qualifies you for all grant types for which your business is eligible.

Selection & Timing

Applications are evaluated on:

• Business clarity
• Passio
• Market strategy
• Use of funds
• Viability

Monthly winners are selected after review, and Year-End Grant winners are chosen from the pool of monthly winners.

2. Dream Big Awards

Each year, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Dream Big Awards spotlight small businesses that are:

• Growing fast
• Innovating smartly
• Making a real economic impact

The program culminates in the selection of a national Small Business of the Year, which receives $25,000 in cash and national recognition. This program also awards eight Business Achievement Awards, including a Woman-Owned Business Achievement Award.

Eligibility

• For-profit business
• Operating for at least one year
• Operates primarily within the United States
• Has:

1. Fewer than 250 employees, or
2. Less than $20 million in gross revenue for each of the past two years

• Applicants must be a legal residents of the continental United States
• Must agree to all official award rules

Application Details

• Applications are submitted online via the official Dream Big Awards platform [10]
• The application window typically closes early to mid-July
• Third-party referrals are allowed from:

1. Local or state chambers of commerce
2. Trade organizations
3. Members of the public

• A referral does not replace submitting a complete application

Selection Process

• Multi-round judging process
• Finalists announced in the fall
• Winners recognized during a virtual Dream Big Awards ceremony hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce

3. IFundWomen Universal Grant Program

IFundWomen (IFW), in partnership with Honeycomb Credit, offers a Universal Funding and Grant Application (UFGA). IFundWomen(IFW) helps women-owned and small businesses access multiple funding options through a single application.[11] As a member of IFundWomen, you can get immediate access:

• Capital funding
• Small business grants
• Business coaching
• A growing network of businesswomen

The UFGA functions as a centralized funding gateway rather than a single fixed grant program.

How the Universal Application Works

• Applicants complete one universal application (approximately 10 minutes)
• Business profits are stored in IFW’s funding database
• IFW matches applicants with relevant opportunities as they become available
• Eligible applicants are notified when they qualify for a specific funding program

Types of Funding Accessed

• Corporate-sponsored business grants
• Rewards-based crowdfunding
• Investment crowdfunding opportunities
• Additional funding products offered through IFW and Honeycomb Credit

Funding Reach and Impact

• Over $250 million deployed to small businesses
• Network includes 150,00+ funders and investors
• Grant amounts vary by sponsor and program
• Grant funding does not require repayment

Eligibility

• Primarily designed for women-owned businesses
• Applicants must be 18 years or older
• Must own a registered business
• Some partner-specific grants may have additional criteria (industry, revenue, or business age)

Application Deadline

• Open year-round
• No fixed deadline
• Free to apply
• One application provides ongoing consideration for future funding opportunities

You can apply for any that you are eligible for on their Apply for Grants page. [12]

4. SoGal Startup Grant

Black women entrepreneurs receive less than 0.50% of venture capital funding. SoGal Foundation was created to help close that gap. [13]

This grant provides equity-free cash grants of $5,000 to $10,000 to support Black women and Black nonbinary founders building scalable, high-impact businesses.

This program is funded through partnerships with corporate sponsors and focuses on founders who plan to pursue investor funding as they grow.

Grant Amount

• $5,000 to $10,000 in non-dilute (equity-free) cash funding
• No repayment required
• Award amounts vary by funding round and sponsor

Eligibility

To qualify for the SoGal Startup Grant, applicants must:

• Self-identify as a Black woman or Black nonbinary entrepreneur
• Have a legally registered business in the United States
• Be building a scalable, high-impact company
• Plan to seek investor or venture financing now or in the future

Application Details

• Application Type: Rolling (no fixed annual deadline)
• Cost: Free to apply
• Selection: Competitive and sponsor-dependent
• Applicant requirements may include a pitch deck and a business overview

5. Stacy’s Rise Project

The Stacy’s Rise Project is a corporate grant and mentorship initiative by Stacy’s® Pita Chips. The Stacy’s Rise Project was created to help close the funding gap faced by women entrepreneurs, particularly in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) and food and beverage space.[14]

In each cycle, the program selects a group of women-founded businesses to receive:

• Equity-free funding
• Executive mentoring
• Brand-building support

Grant Amount and Benefits

• $25,000 equity-free grant per selected business
• Mentorship from PepsiCo and Frito-Lay leaders, focused on:

1. Marketing and branding
2. Operations and supply chain
3. Growth and retail distribution

• Access to a national community of women founders
• Additional exposure and business resources through the program’s partners

• Access to a national community of women founders
• Additional exposure and business resources through the program’s partners

Eligibility

Businesses typically must:

• Be at least 51% women-founded and women-led
• Be a for-profit business
• Operate primarily in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) space
• (especially food, beverage, or snack brands)
• Generate $25,000 to $1 million in annual revenue

NOTE: Eligibility details may vary slightly by year. Applicants should review the current cycle requirements.

Application Process

• Applications are usually hosted on the Hello Alice platform [15]
• Application windows typically open in the fall (October–November)
• Winners are often announced in spring, aligning with Women’s History Month
• The program is free to apply

6. Tory Burch Foundation Fellowship Program

It is a year-long fellowship for women entrepreneurs in the U.S. The Tory Burch Foundation Fellowship Program offers financial support, mentorship, business education, and peer networking to help scale for-profit businesses. [16]

Who It’s For

• Women entrepreneurs, 21+ years old, U.S. legal residents
• Own 51% or more of a for-profit business
• Actively manage daily operations
• Business generates $75,000+ annual revenue

Benefits

• $5,000 business education grant for courses, coaching, or professional development
• Mentorship & coaching from advisors, executive coaches, and industry leaders
• Access to a peer network of 400+ women founders
• Workshops, bootcamps, and networking events, including visits to Tory Burch HQ in NYC
• Holistic founder support, including virtual therapy resources

Application Process

• Online application with statements, business info, and 1–2 minute video pitch
• Reviewed in multiple stages for vision, scalability, impact, and founder leadership
• Applications open: Fall;
• Close: November 11 (most recent cycle)
• Winners announced: April

The fellowship combines financial support, guidance, and networking to help women founders grow revenue, scale operations, and build lasting leadership skills.

7. Women Who Tech Startup Grants

Women Who Tech is a global nonprofit supporting women-led technology startups through:

• Equity-free grants
• Investor pitch opportunities
• Mentorship
• Exposure

The program aims to close the funding gap for underrepresented founders in tech.

Grant Details

• Innovation Grant: ~$15,000 equity-free funding to top tech startups
• Impact Grant: ~$5,000 equity-free funding for socially impactful ventures
• Cohort Support: Five finalists join a 6-week virtual program with pitch coaching, mentorship, and introductions to top investors

Who Can Apply

• Founder: Must have at least one woman or non-binary co-founder pitching
• Tech Focus: Technology must be central to the product; startups must be scalable
• Product Stage: Beta or launched products only; concept-stage startups usually ineligible
• Funding Cap: Must have raised less than ~$7M prior capital
• Global Reach: Open to international founders; U.S. focus is common

Application Process

• Submit an online application during open cycles (often themed: FemTech, HealthTech, AI, Emerging Tech)
• Investor jury reviews applications and selects five finalists
• Finalists receive pitch coaching and mentorship
• Winners pitch to investors and receive grant funding

Key Benefits

• Equity-free funding with no ownership loss
• Mentorship from venture capitalists and tech leaders
• Networking with investors and other women founders
• National exposure and media visibility

This program provides funding, mentorship, and investor access to help women-led startups scale, gain visibility, and secure future financing.

8. National Association for the Self-Employed Growth Grants

The NASE is a nonprofit organization that provides resources to self-employed individuals and small businesses. These grants are designed for specific business growth needs, such as marketing, hiring, equipment, or expansion.[17]

Grant Details

• Amount: Up to $4,000 per award
• Frequency: Quarterly selection ( 4 winners per quarter)
• Total Impact: Since 2006, nearly $1 million has been awarded to members

Eligibility

• Must be an NASE member in good standing (most membership levels are eligible immediately; monthly members require 90 days of membership)
• Open to self-employed individuals or small business owners in any industry
• Applicants must submit a business plan showing how funds will drive measurable growth

How the Grants Work

• Apply Online: Submit your business plan, statement of grant use, and financial documentation (tax return or P&L).
• Quarterly Review:

1. Jan–Mar → Reviewed in April
2. Apr–Jun → Reviewed in July
3. Jul–Sep → Reviewed in October
4. Oct–Dec → Reviewed in January (following year)

• Award Notification: Winners are contacted and funds disbursed for approved growth activities

Approved Uses of Funds

• Hiring or training employees
• Marketing, advertising, or outreach campaigns
• Purchasing equipment, tools, or software
• Expanding services or facilities
• Professional development and certifications

Restricted Uses

• Paying off debt
• Rent or mortgage payments

NASE Growth Grants offer quick, flexible funding to help small business owners achieve concrete growth milestones. Judges prioritize applications that clearly connect the grant to measurable business improvements.

9. FedEx Small Business Grant

The traditional FedEx Small Business Grant Contest in the U.S. has been retired after a 12-year run (2012-2024).

Previously, the program awarded:

• One grand prize of $50,000
• Multiple runner-up grants of $20,000
• Additional FedEx Office print and business services [18]

Eligibility

The businesses need to be:

• For-profit
• Operating for at least six months
• Employing fewer than 99 employees
• Holding an active FedEx shipping account

Important: This nationwide U.S. contest is no longer accepting applications for 2026.

What Replaces the FedEx Small Business Grant in 2026?

Hiring Our Heroes Small Business Award (FedEx Founder’s Fund)

• Grants of $10,000 or $25,000
• For veteran or military spouse-owned businesses
• 2026 applications closed December 15, 2025

FedEx E-Commerce Learning Labs (with Accion Opportunity Fund)

• $10,000 grant + 4-month scaling program
• Designed for established U.S. e-commerce businesses
• Additional beginner cohorts with $5,0000 grants expected mid-2026

FedEx Entrepreneur Fund (Hello Alice)

• Periodic $10,000 grants
• Includes a 12-week digital accelerator
• Focuses on entrepreneurs with military connections or disabilities

How To Prepare for Future FedEx Grant Opportunities

Even though the original U.S. contest ended, most FedEx-backed programs still require:

• An active FedEx business shipping account
• Clear revenue and tax documentation
• A compelling business story (often via short video)
• Proof of operational history

10. American Association of University Women Community Action Grant

The AAUW Community Action Grant, offered by the American Association of University Women, supports community-based programs that advance gender equity in education, with a strong focus on K–12 girls in STEM for the 2026 funding cycle. [19]

Grant Amount

Up to $75,000 for eligible nonprofit organizations and educational institutions(Separate AAUW Branch and State Affiliate grants are capped at $10,000)

Program Focus (2026 Priority Areas)

AAUW prioritizes projects that:

• Provide hands-on STEM learning and experiential education
• Offer mentorship from women in STEM fields
• Build confidence and long-term STEM identity among girls
• Reach girls from historically underrepresented communities
• Programs where more than 50% of participants are not women or girls are not eligible.

Eligibility

• Applicants must apply through an eligible entity, including:
• U.S.-based nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status
• K–12 schools or educational institutions
• AAUW Branches or State Affiliates (separate application track)
• Projects must be implemented within the United States or its territories.

2026 Application Timeline

• Letter of Interest (LOI): Closed (October 31, 2025)

• Full Application (by invitation only): February 6, 2026
• Award Notification: April 15, 2026
• Funds Disbursed: July 2026
• Grant Term: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027

What the Grant Does Not Fund

• Scholarships for individuals
• Fundraising or political activities
• Building construction or renovations

11. Halstead Grant

The Halstead Grant is a highly competitive business development award for emerging U.S.-based jewelry designers working primarily in sterling or fine silver. Organized by Halstead Bead, the grant is designed to help early-stage designers build sustainable, scalable jewelry businesses. [20]

Grant Amount & Prizes (2026)

Grand Prize Winner receives:

• $7,500 cash for startup or growth capital
• $1,000 Halstead gift card for jewelry supplies
• A trip to Prescott, Arizona, to visit Halstead’s headquarters
• A detailed judge feedback and business critique report
• Industry press coverage and promotional exposure
• Free shipping and access to Halstead’s Jewelry Business Forum for one year
• A display trophy recognizing the award

Finalists receive:

• Cash awards ranging from $250 to $1,000
• Halstead gift cards
• Personalized feedback reports
• Press and promotional support

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be emerging jewelry designers in business for fewer than five years
• Work primarily in sterling or fine silver
• Be a U.S. citizen or pa ermanent resident
• Intend to pursue jewelry design as a full-time career
• Demonstrate the ability to sell at a national or broad regional level

Students are not required to apply, but applicants must show clear business intent and readiness.

2026 Application Timeline

• Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
• Winner Announcement: Typically late summer (July–August)

Application Process

The Halstead Grant application is known for its rigor and functions like a mini business plan. Applicants must submit:

High-quality photos of their jewelry collection

Written responses covering marketing strategy, financials, and production capacity

A clear vision for brand growth and sustainability

NOTE: Because of the depth of the application, many past winners recommend starting several weeks in advance.

12. Nav Small Business Grant

It is a quarterly program offered by Nav. Nav is a financial technology company that aims to help businesses access funding options through this program. It awarded $10,000 to the grand prize winner and $5,000 to a runner-up to help established small businesses.

How It Worked

• Businesses needed to be registered Nav users.
• Owners often shared their business story and explained a challenge they faced and how the grant would help. Many contests also included a social media posting and voting elements to help shortlist finalists.n
• Finalists were chosen often based on post content and engagement. Winners were selected to receive the monetary prize.

NOTE: The Nav Small Business Grant program is currently paused as Nav rethinks how to support small businesses and redesigns the program.

Start Applying

Whether you’re a growing firm or a garage startup, there’s a grant perfect for you. Read the requirements carefully before you apply, and be sure to submit your application on time. Most importantly, keep your hopes high and your fingers crossed that the grant might just be able to help you take your business to the next level.

Starting and managing a small business isn’t an easy job, but applying for women owned business grants can help remove some of the weight. If you need some extra motivation, check out these inspirational stories from some of our favorite female entrepreneurs.

Ayoka Apothecary Owner Sola Onitiri Talks Self Care & Black Business

Nonprofit Spotlight: Bailey’s Bookworms’ Mission of Literacy

Mother’s Day Spotlight: Single Mom Raven Phillips-Lee Makes W.A.V.E.

Spotlight: The Gandi Girls Are Living Their Small Business Dream

Bibliography

1. U.S. Small Business Administration. Facts About Small Business: Women Ownership Statistics 2024. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
2. SAM.gov. Get Started with Registration and the Unique Entity ID. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
3. America’s Seed Fund. About SBIR and STTR. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
4. U.S. Department of the Treasury. State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). Accessed on January 23, 2026.
5. Association of Women's Business Centers. Home. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
6. U.S. Small Business Administration. Women-Owned Businesses. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
7. U.S. Small Business Administration. MySBA Certifications. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
8. WBENC. Women Business Owners. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
9. Ambergrantsforwomen. Amber Grant. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
10. U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Meet the 2024 CO—100. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
11. IFundWomen. Home. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
12. IFundWomen. Business grants for all startups and small businesses. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
13. SoGal Foundation. SoGal Foundation. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
14. Stacysnacks. Rise Project. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
15. Hello Alice. The Stacy’s Rise Project. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
16. The Tory Burch Foundation. The Fellowship Program. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
17. nase.org. Home. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
18. FedEx. FedEx Small Business Resources. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
19. AAUW. AAUW Community Action Grants. Accessed on January 23, 2026.
20. The Halstead Grant. The Halstead Grant. Accessed on January 23, 2026.