If I might develop the proper product, I’d begin a enterprise.
It’d in all probability must do with meals. Concepts embody low-carb chocolate that truly tastes good, natural Slurpees or a wine-and-cheese package deal — you realize, already paired.
Nevertheless, I don’t have the cash for that. Nor do I do know something in regards to the meals business, however that’s not the purpose.
However perhaps you will have the time — and the proper marketing strategy — however simply want some cash to push you alongside?
Or do you will have a enterprise you’re struggling to get off the bottom? Resisting a high-interest mortgage or giving a part of the ability to an investor?
Making use of for a enterprise grant is perhaps your excellent answer.
Many grants cater to numerous demographics, and since I’m all about empowering ladies, I compiled an inventory of six grants for women-owned companies.
5 Small Enterprise Grants for Ladies
For those who’re a girl who has a enterprise or desires to start out one, take a gander at these grants.
If the applying window isn’t open but, set a reminder. You’ll need to give your self loads of time to craft the proper utility and acquire a aggressive edge.
1. #Girlboss Basis Grant
Awarded biannually to feminine entrepreneurs chasing their inventive desires — together with design, vogue, music and the humanities — the #Girlboss Foundation Grant honors forward-planning.
If chosen, you’ll win $15,000 and enterprise publicity by #girlboss channels.
Apply now to be eligible for this spring’s award. It’s free to use, and also you simply have to enter the fundamentals: title, contact info, an outline of your mission, the sum of money you want and an finish purpose.
2. The Amber Grant
Every month, The Amber Grant‘s panel of judges grants a winner $2,000. Then, on the finish of the yr, one of many 12 month-to-month winners is eligible to win an extra $25,000.
The good factor about this grant is you don’t have to make use of company language or fancy synonyms. Judges search for passionate and heartfelt concepts and companies — from canine walkers to scientific buyers.
Once more, the applying is easy: title, firm and different fundamentals. You simply kind a number of sentences about your corporation, what you’d do with the cash and some other feedback you suppose will assist set you aside.
Notice: there’s a $15 utility charge, nevertheless it’s completely price it if you happen to win.
3. Halstead Grant
This yearly Halstead Grant is obtainable solely to ladies within the jewelry-making enterprise. The appliance deadline is Aug. 1.
The winner receives $7,500 and a $1,000 procuring reward card to Halstead, which sells wholesale jewellery provides.
Different perks embody a trophy (better part, in all probability) and a visit to the corporate’s Arizona headquarters.
The application is easy — primary info plus short- and long-answer questions.
4. Thought Café Small Enterprise Grants
OK, so this isn’t solely for women-owned companies, however the majority of the Idea Cafe’ Small Business Grant’s winners have been ladies, so it’s price mentioning.
For instance, Flour and Salt Bakery proprietor Brittany Buonocore acquired the grant in 2016. She owns a small bakery in Hamilton, New York.
This $1,000 grant is for anybody who creatively solves an on a regular basis downside. It’s not an astounding sum of money, nevertheless it’s an incredible begin, so preserve a watch open for when the most recent utility is posted.
5. InnovateHER Problem Award
The InnovateHER Challenge Award for woman-owned (and even man-owned!) companies and is awarded to these producing modern merchandise and repair that influence and empower ladies and households.
Previous winners embody an app to seek out babysitters, a program that delivers contemporary substances to your door or a Bluetooth that appears like a designer bracelet.
And there’s a complete lot of money at stake — $70,000. First place will get $40,000, second place wins $20,000 and third place takes dwelling $10,000.
Dates for the following problem haven’t been posted but, however there are not any entry charges, so don’t hesitate to use.
For those who’re hesitant to leap proper in, search for your native U.S. Small Business Administration-sponsored Women’s Business Center. There, you may converse with a mentor about a wide range of subjects.
Better of luck, girls!
Carson Kohler (@CarsonKohler) is a former workers author at The PNW. Deputy Editor Tiffany Wendeln Connors up to date this publish for 2022.