Women Who Lead: How Grants Empower Female Entrepreneurs
Women who lead are transforming the business world, and as grants empower female entrepreneurs, they’re breaking barriers and redefining success across every sector. Across industries once dominated by men, women now lead with confidence, creativity, and resilience. In fact, two out of three women entrepreneurs are making their mark in these fields, proving that with passion and the right support, success knows no limits. Today, more than 13 million businesses in the U.S. are female-led, accounting for 42% of all enterprises. These women-owned companies generate $2.7 trillion in revenue annually and provide jobs for over 10 million workers. In the last two decades, the growth rate of women-owned businesses has skyrocketed by 114%, outpacing male-owned business growth by over 20%.
Fueling much of this momentum is access to grant funding. Unlike loans, grants don’t need to be repaid making them an empowering tool for women looking to launch, expand, or innovate. That’s where GrantWatch steps in. As a trusted grant database, GrantWatch connects women entrepreneurs to thousands of verified opportunities. With tools like the SMART Grant Search and pre-sorted categories tailored to women, small businesses, and startups, users can find the funding that matches their vision. The personalized Grants Calendar ensures deadlines are never missed, and additional tools streamline the process from application to award.
Grants to Empower Female Entrepreneurs
Women-Owned Small Businesses
Up to $10,000 to women-owned small businesses. Funding is for businesses that are majority-owned by women and are for specific projects that impact the business’ profitability and growth.
Mentorship Program
Opportunity for small businesses to participate in a mentorship program. The purpose is to help small businesses increase capacity, acquire development assistance, and compete for government contracts.
Economic Development in the Local Marketplace
Grants to small businesses to foster innovation and economic development in the local marketplace. Women-owned businesses and businesses in rural regions are eligible to receive additional funding.
Workshops in Entrepreneurship to Women
Opportunity for workshops in entrepreneurship to women. The workshops are for individuals who are survivors of adversity, and consist of online classes, assignments, hands-on experience, and mentorship.
Participate in an Accelerator Program
Opportunity for women entrepreneurs to participate in an accelerator program. In addition to funding, support includes coaching and leadership training as part of finding effective methods for scaling up.
Improve the Status of Women
Up to $7,500 to USA small, grassroots, women-led social justice nonprofits for programs and projects centered on issues women face or gender justice issues in the U.S.
Recognize Achievements of Women Entrepreneurs
Awards to USA, Canada, and International female entrepreneurs from any sector in recognition of their achievements and to provide support for business development and growth.
Films in Which Women Held Creative Roles
Up to $10,000 to USA nonprofit organizations and individuals to preserve and/or restore American films in which women had held significant creative roles.
Women Entrepreneurs in Recognition of Innovative Business
Awards to USA, Canada, and International women entrepreneurs in recognition of innovative business activities. The purpose of the award is to honor entrepreneurs in the technology and science fields and to support their ongoing efforts.
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