Top grants and financial resources for the female entrepreneur
As of 2018, there are over 12 million women-owned small businesses in the United States, up from just 400,000 in 1972. Women have made considerable strides in the workplace in the last few decades, and now they are aiming for the small business world, too. In honor of National Women’s History Month, we’ve collected four great grants specifically for female business owners. The number of girl bosses is growing, and these grants can help make your dreams a reality, too.
The Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant Program
Each year, ten women-owned businesses are selected to receive a grant of up to $10,000. The small business must be owned by a woman or women and must make a positive social and environmental impact. There are a few more requirements for this grant, as well. The business must be past the startup stage, and be in business for at least three years.
Winners are chosen based on their application and the social and environmental impact their business is having on the local (or broader) community. For example, a 2017 winner is focused on working with local companies to create rooftop beehives to help the population flourish.
The Amber Grant
Each month the Amber Grant, through Women’s Net, awards one female business owner a $2,000 grant to get their business off the ground. The Amber Grant honors the memory of a young entrepreneur who died before she could make her dreams a reality. The monthly winners are also entered into a more substantial grant program. The final grant of $25,000 is awarded to one exceptional monthly winner.
There is a $15 application fee, but the application is short and sweet. The judges are merely looking for female business owners who have a passion for their work, and a desire to improve it year after year.
#GIRLBOSS Foundation Grant
The #girlboss movement is a big one, and all female entrepreneurs should acquaint themselves with the foundation. This particular grant is focused on women in creative fields; such as fashion, design, music, and art. Creative ladies who launched a business can be entered to win a grant of $15,000. The prize, which is given out biannual, also includes advertising on the #Girlboss website, something that can help a business truly soar!
Cartier Women’s Initiative Award
Lady bosses in the early stages of business development are encouraged to apply for the Cartier Women’s Initiative Award. Winners can receive a grant of up to $100,000 and one-on-one mentoring with some of the best and brightest in the industry. Each year a panel of judges picks 21 finalists from around the globe. All finalists are invited to take part in workshops and executive programs to help them further their business.
Of the 21 finalists, seven receive a $100,000 grant, and the remaining 14 receive a $30,000 grant. The grant money and the exposure offered by the program can go a long way to fulfilling your business dreams. The networking that is included is also an amazing perk.
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