Female entrepreneurs still face steeper hurdles in securing business loans—denied more often, and if approved, frequently stuck with smaller amounts and higher interest rates.
This plays into a larger, troubling trend: a $1.7 trillion global financing gap for women-led businesses.
Despite the disparity, women-owned businesses are a major force in the U.S. economy.
They generate $2.7 trillion and make up 39.1% of all business owners, employing over 12 million people, according to the 2024 Impact of Women-Owned Businesses report.
It’s clear: women are making waves, but access to capital remains a challenge.
To help close this gap, a variety of grants are available, offering financial support, mentorship, and education specifically for women entrepreneurs.
Below is a list of six key grants female founders should consider applying for this month.
- VistaPrint and Female Founder World Grant Offering $15,000 in cash, this grant is designed for U.S.-based women entrepreneurs looking to invest in marketing, R&D, or manufacturing. Applicants must engage with the Female Founder World community, have annual revenue between $40,000 and $1 million, and sell a physical product. The deadline is September 17, 2024.
- High Five Grants for Moms Created by Mama Ladder International, this grant offers up to $10,000 to entrepreneurial moms. Open to all women caregivers, including stepmoms and expectant mothers, the grant aims to help them reach $1 million in revenue. Applicants must own at least 50% of a for-profit business with revenue between $10,000 and $500,000. Applications are open until September 30.
- Galaxy Grants In partnership with Hidden Star, Galaxy Grants provides $4,250 to female and minority entrepreneurs. With a quick application process and no stringent requirements beyond gender or minority status, it’s an easy opportunity for those seeking funds. Applications close on September 30.
- EmpowHER Grant Female social entrepreneurs addressing issues like poverty, sustainability, and community-building can apply for up to $25,000. Eligible businesses must be early-stage, U.S.-based, and no older than three years. Applications are open quarterly, with the current cycle closing at the end of September.
- Amber Grants for Women Awarding $10,000 each month, Amber Grants are open to women entrepreneurs in all industries, including those in the ideation phase. Additionally, the organization offers an extra $25,000 annually to select grant recipients. Applications are always open with a $15 fee, making this a rolling opportunity for women at any stage.
- HerRise MicroGrant This $1,000 grant is aimed at women of color entrepreneurs in diverse fields, helping them grow through coaching, capital, and community support. With a 51% ownership requirement and gross revenue under $1 million, this monthly microgrant offers rolling applications, closing on the last day of each month.
Business founders are breaking barriers, but funding remains a critical hurdle.
These grants offer not just financial support but a lifeline to mentorship and community—helping female entrepreneurs continue to change the business landscape, one grant at a time.
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