Are you a Black woman with a dream of starting or expanding your own business?
Financing your entrepreneurial journey can be challenging, but there’s good news.
Business grants designed specifically for Black women entrepreneurs can be a game-changer.
In this guide, we’ll explore 33 business grants for Black women and provide insights on how to secure these opportunities. Let’s dive in!
Microgrants For Black Women
1. HerRise Micro-Grant
Amount: $1,000 monthly
HerRise Micro-Grant gives $1,000 every month to help Black women with their businesses. It’s like a monthly boost to keep their dreams alive.
This grant not only offers a financial boost but also acknowledges the valuable contributions of women entrepreneurs within the business ecosystem.
With consistent monthly funding, recipients can channel their energy into innovation and growth, breaking down barriers and shattering glass ceilings.
2. Transform Business Grant
Amount: $1,000
Transform Business Grant hands out $1,000 to help break down barriers for Black women trying to start or grow their businesses.
This initiative recognizes that small yet impactful injections of capital can lead to significant progress.
By offering targeted support, the Transform Business Grant empowers entrepreneurs to overcome obstacles and drive positive change.
Startup And Growth Grants For Black Women
3. Pepper Startup Grant
Amount: $5,000
The Pepper Startup Grant stands as a catalyst for entrepreneurial dreams, providing a substantial $5,000 to propel innovative ideas into reality.
This grant recognizes the power of a well-nurtured concept, giving entrepreneurs the necessary resources to take their businesses from vision to execution.
The financial infusion from the Pepper Startup Grant empowers recipients to overcome initial hurdles and bring their ventures to life.
4. Fearless Strivers Grant Initiative
Amount: $20,000
The Fearless Strivers Grant Initiative combines financial support with mentorship, providing a comprehensive package worth $20,000 to fuel business ambitions.
This initiative recognizes that mentorship is a critical component of success, and its integration with substantial funding sets entrepreneurs on a trajectory to thrive.
With financial backing and guidance from seasoned experts, recipients are empowered to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
5. Publish Her Business Impact Grant
Amount: $5,000
The Publish Her Business Impact Grant celebrates the significant contributions of women-owned businesses by offering a $5,000 grant.
This grant focuses on businesses that have already achieved a commendable annual revenue of $50,000 or more, acknowledging their growth and potential for further impact.
By nurturing established enterprises, this grant ensures that their influence continues to expand.
Industry-Specific Grants For Black Women
6. National Beauty Pitch
Program For: Beauty Industry Entrepreneurs
The National Beauty Pitch program amplifies the voices of entrepreneurs in the beauty industry.
With a focus on innovation and creativity, this program provides resources to propel beauty-focused ventures forward.
By recognizing the significance of the beauty sector and providing tailored support, this program contributes to the evolution of the industry.
7. REI Navigate Program
Amount: $25,000
The REI Navigate Program is committed to guiding outdoor-related businesses to success.
With a substantial grant of $25,000, this program recognizes the unique challenges and opportunities within the outdoor sector.
By providing resources to ventures that promote outdoor engagement, REI contributes to a more connected and sustainable future.
Programs For Young Entrepreneurs
8. Bold Beginnings: Paving The Way For Young Female Entrepreneurs
Program For: Young Female Entrepreneurs
The Bold Beginnings program is dedicated to paving the way for young female entrepreneurs.
While specific grant amounts may vary, this program focuses on providing tailored support to emerging talents.
By nurturing the next generation of female business leaders, Bold Beginnings contributes to a more diverse and vibrant entrepreneurial landscape.
Grants With Integrated Services
9. LegalZoom Fast Break For Small Business Grant
Amount: $10,000 (with services)
The LegalZoom Fast Break for Small Business Grant is committed to accelerating growth with a substantial grant of $10,000, complemented by essential services.
This program recognizes that legal support is a critical component of success, and by integrating it with funding, LegalZoom empowers entrepreneurs to navigate legal complexities and achieve their goals.
10. Wish Local Empowerment Program
Amount: $500 – $2,000
The Wish Local Empowerment Program addresses the varied financial needs of underrepresented entrepreneurs with grants ranging from $500 to $2,000.
This range of funding acknowledges that every business journey is unique, ensuring that financial limitations do not impede progress.
By offering adaptable support, this program bridges gaps and creates a more inclusive path to success.
11. Coalition To Back Black Businesses
Amount: $5,000 (with potential $25,000 follow-up)
The Coalition to Back Black Businesses is committed to fostering growth and sustainability among Black-owned businesses.
With initial grants of $5,000 and the potential for a substantial $25,000 follow-up, this coalition provides not only a financial boost but also a long-term commitment to supporting these enterprises.
This multi-tiered approach enables businesses to evolve, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
12. She’s Connected By AT&T
Amount: $20,000
The She’s Connected program, sponsored by AT&T, places a spotlight on woman-owned businesses by offering a generous grant of $20,000.
This program recognizes the importance of connectivity and empowerment in today’s business landscape.
By fostering a strong network and providing substantial funding, AT&T empowers women entrepreneurs to leverage technology and expand their reach.
13. Startup Collective By Aveeno
Amount: Up to $100,000
The Startup Collective by Aveeno is committed to fueling innovation among Black female entrepreneurs.
With grants that can reach up to $100,000, this initiative provides a substantial foundation for entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to fruition.
By nurturing creativity and entrepreneurship, Aveeno supports women in realizing their potential and making a lasting impact.
14. DigitalUndivided’s Breakthrough Program
Amount: $5,000 (with mentoring and community access)
The DigitalUndivided Breakthrough Program is a transformative force, catalyzing change with a $5,000 grant complemented by mentoring and community access.
This holistic approach recognizes that success requires more than just financial support—it demands guidance, connections, and a supportive ecosystem.
By offering a comprehensive package, this program equips underrepresented entrepreneurs for sustained growth.
15. Amber Grant Foundation
Amount: Up to $10,000 (monthly) and a chance at a $25,000 yearly grant
The Amber Grant Foundation is a steadfast supporter of female entrepreneurs, offering monthly grants of up to $10,000.
Additionally, a yearly grant of $25,000 presents the chance for entrepreneurs to secure substantial funding.
This ongoing commitment to financial support ensures that women entrepreneurs have the resources they need to achieve their goals.
16. NAACP & Leslie’s Inc. Certification Boost Grant
The NAACP & Leslie’s Inc. Certification Boost Grant is designed to elevate businesses owned by people of color.
With a commitment to fostering growth and sustainability, this grant offers varying amounts of support based on the specific needs of each business.
By empowering people of color to thrive, this grant enhances diversity within the business realm.
17. NASE Growth Grants
Amount: Up to $4,000
The NASE Growth Grants are dedicated to catalyzing growth for small businesses.
With grants of up to $4,000, this initiative acknowledges the vital role that small enterprises play in driving economic development.
By providing financial resources, NASE supports the expansion and evolution of these businesses.
18. Corporate Counsel Women Of Color Grants
Amount: $5,000 (five grants awarded)
The Corporate Counsel Women of Color Grants are a testament to the power of legal entrepreneurship.
With five grants of $5,000 each, this initiative empowers women in the legal field to leverage their expertise and drive impactful change.
By supporting women’s contributions to the legal sector, this program fosters innovation and progress.
19. StartHER Grant
Amount: $5,000
The StartHER Grant is dedicated to igniting entrepreneurial journeys among Texas-based women business owners.
With a $5,000 grant, this program recognizes the importance of localized support in driving economic growth.
By fueling innovation within Texas, the StartHER Grant contributes to a thriving business ecosystem.
20. Enthuse Foundation Grant
Amount: $2,500 annually
The Enthuse Foundation Grant is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and passion.
With an annual grant of $2,500, this initiative supports individuals who are driven to make a difference.
By recognizing and empowering change-makers, the Enthuse Foundation Grant contributes to a more innovative and socially conscious business landscape.
21. National Black Business Pitch
Amount: Up to $10,000
The National Black Business Pitch fosters innovation by providing substantial awards of up to $10,000.
This program acknowledges the potential within Black-owned businesses to drive meaningful change.
By offering financial support and recognition, this pitch empowers entrepreneurs to amplify their impact.
22. Invest In Progress Grant
Amount: $10,000
The Invest in Progress Grant is dedicated to investing in the potential of Black female entrepreneurs.
With a grant of $10,000, this initiative recognizes the power of financial support to drive progress.
By empowering Black women to thrive in the business world, this grant contributes to a more diverse and vibrant entrepreneurial landscape.
23. Tory Burch Foundation’s Women Of Color Grant Program
Amount: $10,000 – $20,000
The Tory Burch Foundation’s Women of Color Grant Program supports diversity and innovation by offering grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000.
This program recognizes the significant contributions of women of color within the business landscape.
By providing substantial funding, the Tory Burch Foundation empowers women to lead with creativity and impact.
24. Cartier Women’s Initiative’s Diversity, Equity And Inclusion Award
Amount: $100,000, $60,000, and $30,000
The Cartier Women’s Initiative’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award recognizes excellence and commitment to diversity within entrepreneurship.
With awards of $100,000, $60,000, and $30,000, this initiative highlights the power of fostering an inclusive business ecosystem.
By honoring impactful ventures, Cartier drives positive change and celebrates diverse voices.
25. Comcast RISE Investment Fund
Amount: $5,000
The Comcast RISE Investment Fund is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs in various cities with a $5,000 grant.
This program recognizes the vital role that local businesses play in shaping communities.
By providing financial support, Comcast RISE contributes to economic growth and vitality across different regions.
26. Black Ambition Prize
Amount: Awards from $15,000 to $1,000,000
The Black Ambition Prize is dedicated to nurturing ventures with substantial awards ranging from $15,000 to $1,000,000.
This program acknowledges the power of innovation and entrepreneurship to address societal challenges.
By providing transformative funding, the Black Ambition Prize empowers entrepreneurs to create positive change.
Specialized Grants For Black Women
27. BREAKTHROUGH Grant
Amount: $5,000
Offered by Digitalundivided’s BREAKTHROUGH Program, sponsored by JPMorgan Chase’s Advancing Black Pathways, this grant is designed to support Black and Latina women founders based in New York.
To be eligible, businesses must be established for at least one year with a minimum annual business revenue of $50,000 and a website or mobile app.
In addition to a $5,000 grant, winners will receive a business mentor, sessions with industry leaders and the Entrepreneur in Residence, access to digitalundivided’s community of Latina and Black women entrepreneurs, and post-program support.
28. Fast Break Small Business Grant
Amount: $10,000
Created by LegalZoom, NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League, and managed by Accion Opportunity Fund, Fast Break Small Business Grant supports Black-owned small businesses.
The program not only provides $3 million in business grants for Black women and other Black small business owners but also $3 million in products and services.
Each selected business receives a $10,000 grant and LegalZoom products and services, up to $500.
29. The Catalyst Fund Grant
Amount: $5,000
Part of the Mastercard Strive program, operated by Hello Alice, this grant aims to close the Black wealth and opportunity gap by providing an online platform with access to financial tools and capital.
Specifically, it offers The Catalyst Fund Grant, which awards several $5,000 grants to help Black entrepreneurs based in Atlanta, Birmingham, Dayton, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York City, St. Louis, and Washington, D.C. achieve their next business milestone.
30. Corporate Counsel Women Of Color Entrepreneur Grant
Amount: $5,000
The Corporate Counsel Women of Color (CCWC) Entrepreneur Grant is currently offering $5,000 grants for Black women and other women of color who own businesses.
If you get the grant, it gets paired with access to educational programs, mentorships with lawyers, networking opportunities, and discounts with LegalZoom and Office Depot.
31. Galaxy Grant
Amount: $3,750
Hidden Star, a non-profit dedicated to helping women of all backgrounds succeed as entrepreneurs, offers the Galaxy Grant to minority and/or woman-owned small businesses.
Winning businesses each receive a $3,750 grant.
Business owners can increase their chances of winning by referring a friend, and if the referred business owner wins, the referring business owner also wins.
32. Kitty Fund Grant Program
Program For: Mothers In Business
The Kitty Fund Grant Program stands as a pillar of support for mothers in business.
With a commitment to nurturing both business ventures and family responsibilities, this program acknowledges the unique challenges faced by mother entrepreneurs.
By providing tailored resources, this program empowers mothers to thrive in both domains.
33. Founders First Job Creators Quest Grant
Program For: Underrepresented Businesses In Southern California
The Founders First Job Creators Quest Grant is dedicated to nurturing underrepresented businesses in Southern California.
With a focus on regional growth and innovation, this grant provides resources to support ventures that contribute to the local economy.
By bolstering businesses in Southern California, this initiative drives positive change and prosperity.
Resources For Black Women Entrepreneurs
For Black women entrepreneurs, access to resources is vital to achieving success.
Several organizations provide targeted support to empower these entrepreneurs on their journey.
Organizations like Black Girl Ventures, IFundWomen, Amazon Black Business Accelerator, Minority Business Development Agency, and Grants.gov offer a variety of resources, including mentorship, funding opportunities, and information to navigate the business landscape successfully.
Grants.gov
Grants.gov serves as a comprehensive resource for grant information, offering the ability to search by industry and sponsoring agencies.
This platform provides entrepreneurs with a wealth of opportunities tailored to their specific needs.
By centralizing grant information, Grants.gov streamlines the process of finding and applying for grants, ensuring that entrepreneurs can focus their efforts on driving their businesses forward.
SBA 8(a) Business Development Program
The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program stands as a support system for disadvantaged entrepreneurs seeking government contracts.
This program provides specialized resources to help entrepreneurs navigate the complex landscape of government procurement.
By empowering disadvantaged entrepreneurs to secure contracts, this program drives economic growth and opportunity.
Female Founders Fund
The Female Founders Fund is dedicated to fueling innovation in tech startups with female founders.
This initiative recognizes the potential for groundbreaking advancements within the tech sector.
By providing targeted funding and support, the Female Founders Fund empowers women to make their mark in the world of technology.
Sephora Accelerate
The Sephora Accelerate program nurtures founders of color within the beauty industry.
This initiative provides resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to propel beauty-focused ventures forward.
By fostering diversity and creativity, Sephora Accelerate contributes to a more inclusive and innovative beauty landscape.
Women’s Business Centers
Women’s Business Centers play a pivotal role in supporting female entrepreneurs through coaching, classes, and capital assistance.
These centers provide a holistic approach to entrepreneurship, ensuring that women have access to the knowledge and resources needed for success.
By fostering skills, connections, and financial support, Women’s Business Centers empower women to thrive.
Are you a single mom struggling with finances? Check out this blog on “Grants for Single Moms” for more resources and support.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, access to resources and funding is essential for underrepresented entrepreneurs, particularly Black women, to thrive.
This comprehensive guide has explored a myriad of business grants that cater to the specific needs and aspirations of these entrepreneurs.
From microgrants to substantial awards, mentorship to financial support, these opportunities create a pathway to success, innovation, and impact.
By harnessing the power of collaboration, diversity, and creativity, underrepresented entrepreneurs can pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous business ecosystem.
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FAQs
Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific grant. Generally, they may include factors such as business type, industry, revenue, and location. It’s crucial to review each grant’s guidelines carefully.
Yes, you can apply for multiple grants simultaneously. However, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for each grant and tailor your applications accordingly.
The response time varies for each grant program. It can range from a few weeks to several months. Patience is key, and in the meantime, continue focusing on your business goals.
While not all grants require a business plan, having a well-thought-out plan can strengthen your application. It demonstrates your strategic vision and commitment to your business’s success.
Yes, there are grants tailored specifically for tech startups. It’s important to research and identify grants that align with your industry and business goals.
