In today’s world, women are breaking barriers and pursuing ambitious goals in business, education, and beyond.
However, securing the proper funding can be a significant challenge. That’s where grants specifically designed for women offer financial support to turn dreams into reality.
Whether you’re starting a business, furthering your education, or driving a community project, here are the 15 best grants for women to explore.
Jump to
- Top Grants for Women
- 1. Amber Grant for Women
- 2. Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards
- 3. The Halstead Grant
- 4. Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant
- 5. Girlboss Foundation Grant
- 6. Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program
- 7. GrantsForWomen.org
- 8. Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)
- 9. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program
- 10. Women’s Business Centers (WBCs)
- 11. The IFundWomen Universal Grant Program
- 12. InnovateHER Challenge
- 13. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
- 14. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest
- 15. Women’s Fund of Central Ohio Grants
- Final Thoughts
Top Grants for Women
1. Amber Grant for Women
The Amber Grant for Women is an excellent chance for women business owners to get the support they need.
One woman entrepreneur is awarded $10,000 monthly to help grow her business or bring her ideas to life.
At the end of the year, one of the monthly winners receives an extra $25,000.
This grant was created to empower women and give them the tools to succeed.
Whether your business is just starting or already established, this grant can help you take the next step.
It’s a way to recognize women entrepreneurs’ hard work and creativity and ensure they have the resources they deserve to thrive.
Don’t be afraid to dream big!
Who Can Apply: Women entrepreneurs in the U.S. and Canada.
Learn More: ambergrantsforwomen.com
2. Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards
The Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards is a global program that helps women solve social or environmental issues through their businesses.
Since 2006, it has supported 300+ women from 63 countries.
Winners get up to $100,000 in grants, personalized coaching, and access to a vast network of professionals.
The program focuses on real-world impact, encouraging ideas that can change lives and communities. These resources help entrepreneurs turn small initiatives into scalable solutions.
The initiative proves that with strong support, women can lead impactful businesses and inspire others.
It’s a reminder that innovation and hard work, when nurtured, can create meaningful change.
This program gives women the tools to succeed and build a brighter future.
Who Can Apply: Women-run businesses with a strong focus on sustainability and social change.
Learn More: cartierwomensinitiative.com
3. The Halstead Grant
The Halstead Grant is a game-changer for women starting in the jewelry business.
It provides $7,500 in funding, helping to cover startup costs and ease financial pressure.
Beyond money, winners receive valuable industry exposure, which gives their brand a chance to shine in a competitive market.
The grant also includes professional development support, which can boost confidence and skills.
The Halstead Grant has empowered dozens of women jewelers to turn their creative passion into thriving businesses.
Over 40% of small businesses fail in the first five years due to a lack of funding, so this grant makes a real difference.
It’s not just an award—it’s a lifeline for aspiring women entrepreneurs ready to transform their vision into reality.
Who Can Apply: Emerging jewelry artists in the U.S.
Learn More: halsteadbead.com/grant
4. Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant
The Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant empowers women entrepreneurs committed to protecting the planet.
This grant awards $200,000 annually to businesses that firmly commit to sustainability.
To qualify, businesses must be at least 51% women-owned and demonstrate innovative efforts to reduce environmental harm.
For example, small businesses focused on renewable energy, waste reduction, or ethical fashion could apply.
Women own about 42% of all companies in the U.S., yet many face funding challenges.
This grant bridges that gap by investing in women prioritizing our planet’s health.
It’s not just funding—it’s a chance to grow a business while making a real difference for future generations.
Who Can Apply: Women-owned businesses promoting environmental and social change.
Learn More: eileenfisher.com
5. Girlboss Foundation Grant
The Girlboss Foundation Grant supports women pursuing creative careers, offering $15,000 to help turn their ideas into reality.
Since its start in 2014, the grant has helped over 20 women.
It’s designed for those who show innovation and dedication in fashion, design, music, or art.
Winning this grant not only provides financial backing but can also open doors to connections and recognition.
If you’re a woman with a bold, creative vision, this is a chance to bring it to life.
Many women face funding gaps—this grant aims to change that.
Believing in you and applying could be the first step to creating something extraordinary.
Take your dream seriously; this opportunity was built with creators like you in mind.
Who Can Apply: Creative women entrepreneurs in the U.S.
Learn More: girlboss.com
6. Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program
The Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program is designed to support women entrepreneurs and help them succeed.
Up to 50 fellows receive a $5,000 grant to invest in their business each year.
Participants also gain access to educational workshops with industry experts, which provide valuable tools to grow their brand.
The program includes a year-long mentorship opportunity, offering guidance and networking with peers and leaders.
Programs like this aim to change that and provide a solid stepping stone.
If you’re a visionary woman entrepreneur, this program could help take your business to the next level.
Who Can Apply: Women entrepreneurs in the U.S.
Learn More: toryburchfoundation.org
7. GrantsForWomen.org
GrantsForWomen.org is a fantastic resource for women seeking to achieve their education, business, or healthcare goals.
Did you know that over 40% of small businesses in the U.S. are owned by women? Yet, they often face funding challenges.
This platform connects women to financial opportunities they might not find elsewhere.
Grants are tailored to your needs, whether you’re launching a startup, returning to school, or working on a healthcare project.
The process is simple: browse grants that fit your needs, check eligibility, and start your application.
These funds can give you the boost to turn your dreams into reality.
Who Can Apply: Women in diverse fields.
Learn More: grantsforwomen.org
8. Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)
The Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP) is designed to help women who have survived intimate partner abuse by assisting them to achieve higher education.
Studies show that education significantly increases earning potential, with college graduates earning 67% more than those with only a high school diploma.
WISP allows survivors to rebuild their lives through financial aid for tuition and other education costs.
The program helps women gain stability, independence, and confidence by focusing on education.
With support like this, survivors are better equipped to break the cycle of abuse and improve life for themselves and their families.
WISP is not just funding; it’s a step toward a future of opportunity and success.
Who Can Apply: Women survivors of abuse in the U.S.
Learn More: wispinc.org
9. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program is a fantastic way for women-owned businesses to turn big ideas into reality.
It funds research and development projects that can lead to innovation and growth.
The program awards over $3 billion to small businesses in industries such as tech, health, and energy every year.
Women entrepreneurs can use this opportunity to create solutions, test ideas, and take their business to the next level.
The SBIR program is competitive, but the reward is access to crucial funding that can transform concepts into impactful products or services.
By applying, you’re not just seeking money—you’re positioning your business as a leader in innovation while making a positive change in your field.
Who Can Apply: Women entrepreneurs in science and technology fields.
Learn More: sbir.gov
10. Women’s Business Centers (WBCs)
Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) are a nationwide network supporting women entrepreneurs.
Backed by the Small Business Administration (SBA), WBCs offer tailored resources such as mentoring, training programs, and guidance on securing funding.
Over 140 centers across the U.S. help women start and grow businesses.
According to a 2022 SBA report, the number of women-owned businesses has risen to nearly 13 million, contributing $1.8 trillion to the economy.
WBCs play a big role in this growth by focusing on challenges women often face, like accessing capital and balancing business with personal responsibilities.
Whether you’re just beginning or expanding, WBCs create opportunities to succeed with tools, advice, and hands-on guidance.
Who Can Apply: Women entrepreneurs in the U.S.
Learn More: sba.gov/women
11. The IFundWomen Universal Grant Program
The IFundWomen Universal Grant Program is designed to help women entrepreneurs succeed by providing access to funding opportunities tailored to their goals.
Only 2% of venture capital funding goes to women-owned businesses, creating a significant resource gap.
This platform seeks to bridge that gap by connecting women with grants that align with their industries and needs.
It’s open to businesses at various stages, encouraging growth and innovation.
With grants being a critical tool for scaling operations, IFundWomen ensures a fair and supportive process for applicants.
This program empowers women to overcome financial hurdles and achieve sustainability in their ventures by offering coaching and funding.
It’s a game-changer for women-driven businesses.
Who Can Apply: Women entrepreneurs worldwide.
Learn More: ifundwomen.com
12. InnovateHER Challenge
The InnovateHER Challenge is a valuable opportunity for women entrepreneurs.
Sponsored by the SBA, it focuses on supporting creative products and services that improve the lives of women and families.
Women-owned businesses are a growing force in the U.S., making up 42% of all firms and employing nearly 9 million people.
This competition can help turn ideas into reality with financial support and recognition.
By addressing real-world problems, participants can make a substantial impact while scaling their businesses.
If you have an innovative idea that benefits women and families, this program could open doors to resources and a wider network.
It’s not just about funding—it’s about driving change and creating meaningful solutions. Take the chance to innovate.
Who Can Apply: Women entrepreneurs with innovative ideas.
Learn More: sba.gov/innovateher
13. National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants
The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants provides an excellent opportunity for small business owners, especially women, to grow their ventures.
Each grant offers $4,000 to help with essential needs like purchasing equipment, marketing, or expanding operations.
NASE has awarded nearly $1,000,000 in grants to entrepreneurs since the program began.
If you’re passionate about your business but need a financial boost, this program could help you take the next step.
To qualify, you need to be a NASE member, which gives you access to additional resources like business advice and networking.
These grants are designed to create real change for small businesses, empowering owners and driving community growth.
Who Can Apply: NASE members who are self-employed.
Learn More: nase.org
14. FedEx Small Business Grant Contest
The FedEx Small Business Grant Contest is a powerful opportunity for women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.
This program awards funding to small businesses to support key areas like expansion, marketing, or technology.
With approximately 10 winners chosen annually, grants often range to $50,000, plus other business services.
For women-owned businesses, this can offer critical resources for growth.
Studies show that nearly 42% of U.S. businesses are women-owned, yet many lack access to funding.
Programs like this help bridge that gap, offering money and a chance to compete and shine.
Applying is simple and worth it for driven entrepreneurs ready to transform their vision into lasting success.
Who Can Apply: Small businesses in the U.S.
Learn More: fedex.com/grantcontest
15. Women’s Fund of Central Ohio Grants
The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio empowers women and girls by providing essential funding for projects that drive change.
This grant is focused on leadership and community impact and supports initiatives that address inequalities and create growth opportunities.
For example, women-owned businesses receive less than 5% of total small business loans in the U.S.; grants like this help close that gap.
The fund ensures stronger communities and a brighter future by backing organizations that uplift women.
Applicants gain access to resources that fuel innovation and progress, encouraging positive social change.
If you are passionate about making a difference, this grant is a vital tool for turning bold ideas into reality, transforming lives, and creating long-term solutions.
Who Can Apply: Women and organizations in Central Ohio.
Learn More: womensfundcentralohio.org
Final Thoughts
Grants for women can provide the financial support needed to chase big dreams, overcome challenges, and create meaningful change.
Whether you’re starting a business, advancing your education, or leading a community initiative, these opportunities are here to help you succeed.
Take the first step today by exploring these 15 incredible grant options!
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