15 Small Business Grants Designed to Empower Women Entrepreneurs in Georgia

Breaking into the world of entrepreneurship can be especially challenging for women, with hurdles like limited funding opportunities and systemic barriers often standing in the way. To bridge this gap and promote economic growth, several organizations and financial institutions have introduced grants exclusively for women-owned businesses. These grants are more than just financial aid—they’re a step toward leveling the playing field and empowering women to lead, innovate, and thrive in their industries. Here are 15 impactful grants designed to support and uplift women entrepreneurs.

1 The Big Idea Grant 

The Big Idea Grant, available through YippityDoo, was created to empower women entrepreneurs by providing financial resources to fuel their innovative ventures. This grant is tailored for women with bold, impactful ideas that have the potential to drive significant change within their communities or industries.

Recipients of the Big Idea Grant gain more than just funding; they also receive recognition and validation for their unique concepts, which can serve as a springboard for additional opportunities, partnerships, and investments. Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding an existing business, or seeking support for a game-changing initiative, this grant is designed to help you turn your vision into reality.

By encouraging innovation, fostering creativity, and supporting female leadership, the Big Idea Grant seeks to bridge the gap for women entrepreneurs who often face barriers in accessing capital.

2. Eileen-Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant

Female entrepreneurs seeking funding to expand their businesses can apply for the Eileen-Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant. Each year, Eileen-Fisher awards five women with grants of up to $120,000. To qualify, your business must be woman-owned, committed to promoting social and environmental change, and operational for at least three years. Additionally, your company must not generate more than $1 million in annual profits.

3. FedEx Small Business Grant

Through its small business grant competition, FedEx has consistently demonstrated fairness in distributing funds to both male and female entrepreneurs. Winners are chosen based on public votes, with those receiving the most votes awarded grants of up to $75,000. Along with financial support, winners also gain valuable exposure through FedEx’s media channels.

4 . InnovateHER Grant

Sponsored by the Small Business Administration, the InnovateHER Challenge is an exclusive grant for women entrepreneurs. Participants pitch their innovative ideas to an audience and a panel of judges. The national winner walks away with a $75,000 grant to turn her concepts into a thriving business.

5 Amber Grants

The Amber Grant is a great opportunity for female entrepreneurs aiming to start small, community-based businesses. Each month, one woman-owned business is awarded a $least $30,000 every month in Amber Grant money. In recognition of the diversity of businesses owned by women, we’ve also expanded our grant-giving to include “Startup Grants,” “Business Category Grants,” as well as three “$25,000 Year End Grants

6. Small Business Technology Transfer Program

If your business focuses on research and development, the Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) could be an excellent funding source. To qualify for this federal grant, your business must have fewer than 500 employees. You can receive up to $75,000 during the initial startup phase and an additional $750,000 if your research proves successful.

7. Women Veteran Entrepreneur Corp Small Business Competition

The Women Veteran Entrepreneur Corp (WVEC) Small Business Competition is an excellent opportunity for women seeking to enhance their human capital. Participants present a two-minute pitch detailing their innovative business ideas. Winners gain access to an eight-month intensive business training program, designed to help them scale their businesses to new heights.

Through these initiatives, women entrepreneurs can find financial support and resources to overcome barriers, scale their businesses, and make meaningful contributions to their industries.

8 Smart Women Smart Money

Zion Bank in  Utah organizes a grant competition specifically for women seeking funding for their business ventures. The winner of this competition receives a $3,000 grant to help grow her business.

9  Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)

Entrepreneurs with groundbreaking ideas that meet market needs can apply for the Small Business Innovation Research grant. In the initial phase, companies may receive $150,000 to establish research and development objectives. If the project proves feasible, an additional $1 million may be awarded over a two-year period.

10 Mission Main Street Project

A collaboration between Google and Chase, the Mission Main Street Project allocates over $3 million annually in grants to 20 businesses. Known for their progressive approach, the sponsors have successfully supported women and minority entrepreneurs. Winners receive $150,000 grants to advance their business ventures.

11. Mom Inspired Grants

Sponsored by Huggies, the Mom Inspired Grants program is designed for women who develop innovative products inspired by motherhood. Each year, 12 mothers are awarded $15,000 grants to help turn their ideas into reality.

12. Open Meadows Foundation Grants

The Open Meadows Foundation offers grants to women twice a year. To qualify, your company must aim to promote racial, gender, or economic equality. Additionally, your operational budget must not exceed $75,000. Selected businesses are awarded $2,000 grants.

13 Halstead Grant

If your small business specializes in silver jewelry design, you may be eligible for the Halstead Grant. Each year, the grant awards $6,000 to a talented designer showcasing exceptional skills in crafting silver jewelry.

14. Idea Cafe Grants

Idea Cafe Grant provides grants throughout the year to business owners with innovative ideas that drive positive social and environmental change. Entrepreneurs can apply for grants of $1,000 to support their ventures.

15. 37 Angels Grants

37 Angels focuses on addressing the financial challenges faced by women in the loan market. This organization offers grants of up to $150,000 to help female entrepreneurs sustain and grow their businesses.

16. Belle Capital Grants

Belle Capital supports women-led companies by offering grants of varying amounts. Additionally, recipients gain access to an angel investment fund, providing further opportunities to launch or expand their businesses.

With these grants, women entrepreneurs have greater access to the financial resources they need to thrive, innovate, and make impactful contributions to their industries and communities.