Grants for Women Opening Small Businesses

by Melissa Reynolds

Overview

The U.S. government states that "government agencies do not provide grants to help start a business." However, there are a number of loan programs available for women. To determine what exactly is available in your area, complete the government's financing survey at Business.gov.
Federal Loan Programs

According to Business.gov, Accion USA "offers flexible loans (up to $50,000) to small business owners who have limited or no access to traditional business credit." More than 40% of Accion USA's clients are female business owners.

State Loan Programs

Low-interest loan programs for female entrepreneurs vary from state to state. California's Women's Economic Ventures loan fund, for example, "provides start-up and expansion capital." Illinois offers a Minority, Women and Disabled Participation Loan Program, which lends up to $50,000 to women owned and managed businesses.
State Grant Programs

Depending on the industry, limited state funding for established businesses may be available. The Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care, for example, provides some funding related to child care businesses. However, the state government does note that "these grants are not necessarily free money, and usually require the recipient to match funds."
Private Grants

Although rare, private grants may be available for women-owned start-ups. For example, Idea Café's Small Business Grant Center awards $1,000 grants based on "innovation or originality."
Small Business Administration

The SBA's Office of Women's Business Ownership offers loans, mentoring, business counseling and a variety of free and low-cost training opportunities through Women's Business Centers across the country.

Overview