10 Best Small Business Grants for Women in 2025: Unlock Your Business Potential

Women-owned businesses are a powerful economic force, contributing trillions of dollars and millions of jobs globally. However, access to capital remains a persistent challenge for many women entrepreneurs, especially in underserved communities. Small business grants provide vital, non-repayable funding that can make the difference between idea and impact.

To help you navigate today’s competitive funding landscape, we present the 10 best small business grants for women in 2025 — starting with the exclusive YippityDoo Small Business Grant, designed to empower women entrepreneurs with more than just money, but also mentorship and community.

1. YippityDoo Small Business Grant — Beyond Funding, a Platform for Growth

The YippityDoo Small Business Grant stands apart by offering women entrepreneurs $1,000 monthly to fuel their business aspirations across the United States. But what truly makes this grant impactful is its holistic support system.

• Flexible Funding: Whether you’re launching your first product, expanding marketing, or covering operational costs, this grant adapts to your unique needs.
  
• Mentorship and Coaching: Recipients join a curated community of women leaders, receiving ongoing coaching to sharpen business acumen and strategy.
  
• Visibility and Networking: Awardees gain a two-month feature in the SheBiz Directory, amplifying their business presence among customers and collaborators.
  
• Inclusive Eligibility: Open to U.S.-based women with majority ownership, including startups and established small businesses.
  

Women’s businesses are growing 2.5 times faster than the national average, YippityDoo’s grant nurtures leadership, resilience, and sustainable success — not just funding.

2. Amber Grant Foundation — Honoring Dreams with Generous Capital

With a mission rooted in legacy and hope, the Amber Grant Foundation awards three $10,000 monthly grants and three $25,000 annual grants to women-owned businesses in the U.S. and Canada. Its simple application and wide eligibility make it a staple for entrepreneurs across sectors, from tech to arts.

Data from Amber Grant shows recipients often leverage funds to scale marketing or product development — key growth drivers in a competitive marketplace.

3. HerRise MicroGrant — Targeted Funding for Women of Color Entrepreneurs

HerRise MicroGrant addresses one of the most pressing funding inequities: access for women of color. By providing $1,000 monthly to eligible women-led businesses, this grant supports foundational investments such as website design, branding, or equipment

.

The program’s commitment extends beyond dollars, fostering a vibrant network of women dedicated to empowerment and economic justice.

4. IFundWomen Grants — Merging Crowdfunding and Grantmaking for Maximum Impact

IFundWomen offers a revolutionary approach, combining community-driven crowdfunding with access to corporate-sponsored grants. Its Universal Grant Application allows entrepreneurs to be matched with funding suited to their stage and industry, alongside tailored coaching and business education.

In 2024, IFundWomen facilitated over $20 million in funding for women entrepreneurs, demonstrating the power of combining technology with grantmaking.

5. Cartier Women’s Initiative Grants — Elevating Global Women Innovators

The Cartier Women’s Initiative is one of the most prestigious global competitions, awarding regional grants up to $100,000 and supporting women-led businesses with strong innovation and social impact. Particularly notable is their Science and Technology Pioneer Award, championing women in STEM fields with intensive R&D needs.

With alumni reaching $1 billion in combined revenue, Cartier’s grants are a gateway to international scale and visibility.

6. BMO Celebrating Women Grant — Investing in Growth and Innovation Across North America

BMO Financial Group’s Celebrating Women Grant awards $10,000 to $15,000 to women-owned businesses in the U.S. and Canada that demonstrate innovation and clear plans for scaling. The program is known for supporting diverse sectors, including emerging green technologies and creative industries.

Recipients often use funds to develop new product lines or expand teams — critical investments for businesses seeking to gain competitive advantage in 2025’s dynamic markets.

7. Tory Burch Foundation Fellowship — Comprehensive Support for Emerging Leaders

The Tory Burch Foundation offers a $5,000 education grant combined with 0% interest loans, mentorship, and leadership workshops for 50 women annually. Their focus on community building complements the financial support, creating a cohort effect that amplifies success.

The fellowship targets women-led businesses under five years old, emphasizing education as a cornerstone for sustainable growth.

8. Enthuse Foundation Annual Pitch Competition — Boosting Women in Food & Beverage

For women entrepreneurs in the food, beverage, or consumer packaged goods sectors, the Enthuse Foundation’s pitch competition is a unique funding and exposure platform. Winners receive up to $15,000, while the event fosters connections with industry experts and investors.

With the food industry seeing a 20% annual growth rate in female ownership (2023 USDA report), this grant supports a booming entrepreneurial segment.

9. Women Founders Network Pitch Competition — Accelerating Tech & Consumer Goods Innovation

This pitch competition offers $25,000 grants to early-stage women-led startups in technology and consumer goods. It fosters innovation by connecting founders with venture capitalists and mentors, accelerating pathways to market.

Notably, the competition encourages pre-revenue startups, emphasizing inclusivity for women breaking into traditionally male-dominated sectors.

10. She’s Connected Grant by AT&T — Large-Scale Funding with Amplified Visibility

AT&T’s She’s Connected program awards $50,000 grants to women-led small businesses with fewer than 50 employees, combining capital with national media exposure through a web series highlighting their journeys.

This blend of funding and storytelling helps recipients attract new customers, partners, and investors in a crowded marketplace.

How to Secure Small Business Grants in 2025

Winning grants requires more than meeting criteria:

• Research: Use databases like Grants.gov, SBA, and private foundations’ websites.
  
• Align: Tailor applications to reflect the grant’s mission and priorities.
  
• Narrate: Craft a compelling business story that highlights your impact and vision.
  
• Proof: Provide clear, organized documentation including business plans and financials.
  
• Engage: Leverage offered mentorship and community networks to strengthen your proposal.
  

Final Thoughts:

Women entrepreneurs are redefining business and innovation in 2025. With grants like the YippityDoo Small Business Grant offering flexible funding plus comprehensive support, and global programs supporting diverse industries and growth stages, now is the time to seize opportunities.

Approach the process strategically, apply widely, and use grants as launchpads for sustainable growth.