If you run a business and are looking for the right funding opportunities, learning about best grants for women-owned businesses is a smart move. This guide covers what these grants are, why they matter, how to prepare, which programs to target, and what steps you should take next.
Women-owned businesses often face different financial hurdles compared to their male counterparts. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), their Office of Women’s Business Ownership supports women entrepreneurs with training, capital access, and government contracting programs.
Grants offer funding without repayment obligations, making them especially useful for growth, innovation, and expanding missions. When targeted correctly, they can shift your business into a stronger financial position and help amplify your impact.
Typically, a business qualifies when at least 51 % is owned, operated, and controlled by one or more women. Exact definitions may vary per program so always check eligibility requirements.
Grants = money you don’t have to repay (though tax and reporting obligations often apply).
Loans = borrowed funds that must be repaid, usually with interest.
Contract opportunities = not direct funding, but leverage for women-owned businesses (e.g., set-asides in procurement). For example, the SBA’s Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Contract Program helps women-owned firms compete for federal contracts.
Common requirements include:
Women majority ownership (often 51 %+)
U.S.-based and legally registered business
Minimum operating history or revenue level
Clear plan for use of funds and measurable outcomes
Before you submit an application for a women-owned business grant, make sure you’re ready.
Verify your ownership status and business registration.
Prepare your business plan clearly articulating purpose, growth goals, and how you’ll use the funding.
Gather financials — profit/loss statements, sales history, projections.
Compile supporting documents: ownership proof, certifications, past performance.
Understand grant guidelines: how funds must be used, what outcomes you’re expected to achieve.
Consult a tax professional — grants may count as taxable income.
The SBA’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership offers training, capital access tools, and support for women-owned enterprises.
While many grants are private, the federal site grants.gov also lists business funding opportunities you can filter by “women-owned business” keywords.
The Amber Grant awards women-owned businesses $10,000 monthly, and at year-end winners may receive additional funds.
The IFundWomen platform gives access to various grant programs for women entrepreneurs, coaching, and funding matches.
The Fund Her Future Grant (by Block Advisors by H&R Block) is awarding significant grants to women business owners, including a $50,000 grand prize. H&R Block Tax preparation company
A broader list of 30+ grants tailored for women-entrepreneurs is detailed by SoFi in their “Small Business Grants for Women” article. SoFi
Some grants focus on specific sectors like tech, wellness, or women of color. For example, programs supporting women founders in tech might require proven business traction and align with investor readiness goals. Founder Shield
Writing a successful grant application isn’t only about meeting eligibility. Focus on storytelling and measurable impact.
Highlight your mission and business story: why you started, what you’re solving, who you serve.
Be specific about how the funds will be used: expanding staff, launching products, entering new markets.
Include measurable outcomes: projected revenue growth, jobs created, community benefits.
Customize your application to the grant’s intent: if a fund targets women in tech, emphasize your tech credentials and roadmap.
Make sure you submit complete and accurate documentation by the deadline.
Maintain records after award: most programs will ask for progress reports or proof of fund usage.
Avoiding mistakes can increase your chances significantly. Here are frequent errors:
Failing to read eligibility requirements closely (e.g., ownership or revenue thresholds).
Sending generic applications not tailored to the fund’s focus.
Lacking a clear plan for how funds will lead to business impact.
Missing submission deadlines or submitting incomplete applications.
Overlooking ongoing obligations: reporting, documentation, outcomes tracking.
Start by identifying two or three grant programs that align with your business and mission. Then:
Review the eligibility criteria carefully.
Assemble your business plan, financials, and ownership documentation.
Draft a compelling narrative explaining how funding will drive growth.
Create a calendar reminder for deadlines and follow the submission instructions exactly.
Save all application materials and plan for tracking usage and outcomes if awarded.
Grants for women-owned businesses present a significant opportunity to accelerate growth and impact. You now know what they are, why they matter, how to prepare, where to find top programs, best application practices, and how to avoid common pitfalls. With a clear plan and focused effort, you’re well-positioned to apply for funding that supports your business goals and vision.