Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Oregon: Grants, Accelerators & Resources

Oregon’s women entrepreneurs have more opportunities than ever to fuel their business growth. From grant programs that provide much-needed funding to accelerator programs offering mentorship and investment, there are resources tailored to help women-led businesses thrive. Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of grants (starting with YippityDoo’s Big Idea Grant) and accelerators available to women entrepreneurs in Oregon. We also highlight additional networks and platforms for mentorship, funding, and support. Let’s dive in!

Top Grant Opportunities for Women Entrepreneurs

Grants can be a game-changer for women-owned businesses, providing capital that doesn’t need to be repaid. Many grants are open nationwide (and thus accessible to Oregon founders) and some offer extra benefits like mentoring or networking. Here are some verified grant programs for women entrepreneurs:

YippityDoo Big Idea Grant

The Big Idea Grant by YippityDoo is a monthly grant designed to empower women business owners across the U.S. It awards $1,000 each month to a woman entrepreneur with a bold vision for her business). In addition to funding, winners receive a one-year membership in YippityDoo’s wealth mindset coaching group (providing mentorship and community support)). The application is brief (about five minutes) and requires a $15 feeWith this grant being relatively new, competition is still low – a great opportunity for Oregon women to snag some funding for their “big idea.”

• Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs age 18 or older, residing anywhere in the U.S., who have a women-owned business or a solid plan to start one
  
• Funding/Benefits: $1,000 cash grant (awarded monthly), plus mentorship via a year of free access to YippityDoo’s coaching community 

Amber Grant (WomensNet)

The Amber Grant is one of the best-known funding programs for women entrepreneurs. WomensNet awards this grant every month, now giving three grants of $10,000 each to three different women-owned businesses). (Typically one grant goes to a startup, one to a business in a specified category that rotates monthly, and one to a general small business .) If you win an Amber Grant, you also become eligible for an additional annual grant of $25,000 (three of these annual winners are chosen at year-end)). The application is simple: you just describe your business and how you’d use the money, and pay a $15 fee . Bonus: There’s no lengthy business-history requirement, so even new startups can apply (4Eligibility: Women-owned businesses in the U.S. or Canada, in any industry (including startups and pre-revenue companies)

• Funding/Benefits: $10,000 grant awarded to three winners each month; annual $25,000 grants for three of the monthly winners Winners also get promotion on the WomensNet site and community support.
  

IFundWomen Universal Grant Database

IFundWomen is not a single grant but a grant marketplace and database. By submitting one general application on IFundWomen’s platform, women entrepreneurs get automatically considered for multiple grants from IFundWomen’s corporate partners ( Whenever a partner (like Visa, Neutrogena, American Express, etc.) launches a new grant program, IFundWomen scans its applications to find matches and invites those entrepreneurs to apply). Essentially, it’s a one-stop-shop: fill out a profile once, and you could be in the running for many different funding opportunities throughout the year.

• Eligibility: Women-owned businesses (varies by specific grant criteria – IFundWomen will match you to relevant opportunities). You should have a solid business idea or existing business; many grants target startups or early-stage companies.
  
• Funding/Benefits: Varies by grant partner. Generally cash grants (often $5K–$10K) and sometimes extra perks like coaching or business services from the corporate sponsor.
  

HerRise MicroGrant

The HerRise MicroGrant program offers small but impactful grants to women entrepreneurs on a monthly basis. Run by the Yva Jourdan Foundation (the nonprofit arm of HerSuiteSpot), this program awards $1,000 micro-grants each month to women business owners . It’s targeted toward under-resourced female founders, including women of color, to help them overcome funding gaps ). To be eligible, your business must be at least 51% woman-owned, under $1 million in annual revenue, and you should demonstrate need and a plan for the funds.

• Eligibility: 51%+ woman-owned businesses with less than $1M in gross revenue; open to entrepreneurs across the U.S. (focus on women of color and those in need)
  
• Funding/Benefits: $1,000 grant, given out each month. (Beyond the money, being a HerRise grant recipient can plug you into HerSuiteSpot’s community of female entrepreneurs and resources.) (

Galaxy Grant

The Galaxy Grant is a program presented by Hidden Star, a nonprofit organization, to support both women and minority small business owners. Winners of a Galaxy Grant currently receive $1,500 in funding. The grant runs in cycles; for example, one cycle in early 2025 had an application deadline of March 31, 2025 . Oregon entrepreneurs who are women of color or who otherwise meet the criteria are encouraged to apply. It’s a relatively quick source of micro-funding to give your business a little boost.

• Eligibility: Women and minority business owners in the U.S. (18+). Typically, you should have an existing small business with some traction to show.
  
• Funding/Benefits: $1,500 cash grant for each winner. Winners may also get featured by Hidden Star, gaining exposure.
  

Women Founders Network Fast Pitch Competition

The Women Founders Network (WFN) Fast Pitch is technically a pitch competition, but it functions like a grant program because the winners receive cash prizes (equity-free). It’s open to women-led startups across the U.S. who have not raised more than $750K in outside funding Each year, WFN selects a group of finalists who receive mentoring to hone their pitch. They then pitch live (historically in Los Angeles), and the top winners receive grants – for example, the first-place prize is $25,000 and second place $10,000, plus in-kind professional services . This is a great avenue for Oregon founders with scalable business ideas to gain both funding and investor exposure.

• Eligibility: U.S.-based businesses founded or co-founded by a woman, who have raised <$750,000 in external capital  Typically targeting early-stage, high-growth potential startups.
  
• Funding/Benefits: ~$25K grant for the winner (and ~$10K for runner-up, etc., depending on the year) Finalists get coaching and pitch preparation, plus the opportunity to network with investors and advisors through WFN.
  
  Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards

The Cartier Women’s Initiative is a prestigious global program for early-stage women entrepreneurs making social or environmental impact. Each year, Cartier selects top female founders from around the world (including the North America region) and provides significant grant funding: approximately $100,000 for the top laureate, $60,000 for the second place, and $30,000 for third place in each region . Beyond the money, participants get access to executive coaching, networking opportunities, and training workshops (. If you’re an Oregon-based woman running a mission-driven startup, this international award is worth aiming for. Note: The application cycle usually opens in the spring (for 2025, applications open April 18) (

Eligibility: Women-led businesses from any country, in early-stage (typically 1-5 years of operations) with a scalable and impactful business model . You must be the founder or co-founder, and your business should align with social, environmental, or economic sustainability goals.

• Funding/Benefits: $30K–$100K grant awards to winners (no equity taken). All finalists get high-profile exposure, personalized business coaching, workshops, and connection to a network of influential leaders.
  

High Five Grant for Moms

The High Five Grant for Moms is an annual business grant competition run by The Mama Ladder, specifically for entrepreneurial mothers. In this program, mompreneurs (including expecting moms, stepmoms, and foster moms compete for votes and judges’ favor. The top grant each year is $10,000 to the first-place winner, $5,000 to the runner-up, and $2,500 for third place – plus five honorable mentions of $1,000 each . Participants fill out an application and also share their business “why” on social media to gather support. Applications are typically open in September each year (e.g., Sept 1–30, 2025 for that year’s cycle) Eligibility: Mothers who own businesses (including side hustles) at any stage. U.S. and international moms can apply (program is U.S.-based). You’ll need to be willing to promote your story publicly as part of the contest.

• Funding/Benefits: $10K top grant, $5K second, $2.5K third, and additional $1K grants to other finalists . Finalists also gain media exposure and sometimes smaller prizes. The community aspect means even those who don’t win cash still benefit from new followers and supporters.
  

The Kitty Fund (Mother-Led Business Grant)

Another funding source for moms is The Kitty Fund, launched by Founders First CDC. It offers $1,000 micro-grants to small businesses led by mothers (To qualify, your business must be U.S.-based, have 2 to 100 employees, and under $5 million in revenue. The idea is to provide a little extra capital to help mom-owned companies grow. The Kitty Fund typically opens applications in the spring (for instance, March 18, 2025 was the opening date for that cycle) 

Eligibility: Women business owners who are mothers, with 2–100 employees and <$5M revenue, in the U.S.

Businesses of various industries are welcome.

• Funding/Benefits: $1,000 grant to each selected mom-owned business . While modest, this grant can help with a specific purchase or project, and winners may get shout-outs through Founders First’s network.
  

Tip: New grant programs pop up frequently. Corporate-sponsored contests (by companies like Visa, Mastercard, Spanx, etc.) and local grants through city or state initiatives are worth watching. Keep an eye on platforms like Hello Alice and Ladies Who Launch’s grant directory (see Resources at the end) for the latest opportunities.

Accelerator Programs for Women Founders in Oregon

Accelerators can provide mentorship, education, networking, and sometimes capital or investment opportunities to fast-track your business growth. Below are accelerator and incubator programs tailored for women entrepreneurs – including both local Oregon-based programs and national/global accelerators open to U.S. applicants (which Oregon founders can take advantage of):

Xcelerate Women (formerly XXcelerate Fund – Oregon)

Xcelerate Women is a nonprofit accelerator and business support program based in Oregon, born out of the former XXcelerate Fund initiative ). It provides a “uniquely powerful combination of business education, peer support, and a pathway to financing” for women-owned businesses Xcelerate runs a 3-month accelerator cohort called the XXcelerator program, which helps growth-stage female founders sharpen their business skills and get capital-ready.

Participants work on goal setting, strategic planning, sales growth, financial management, and leadership development in a supportive, women-centric environment The program’s values include community, accountability, and “just-in-time” guidance, which have proven to yield higher success rates for participants Focus & Support: Xcelerate Women offers cohort-based training (weekly workshops and mentorship over 3 months) on topics like setting OKRs, improving financial systems, pitching, and preparing for funding. Xcelerate also facilitates connections to financing opportunities (it began as a fund, after all).

• Eligibility: Women-owned businesses headquartered in Oregon, typically those that are at least 1 year old and generating $25K+ in annual revenue . You must be dedicating at least half-time to your business This program is ideal for ventures that have launched and are looking to scale.
  

   Astia (Global)

Astia is a global organization that functions as an accelerator and an investor network focused on high-growth companies led by women. With 25+ years of experience, Astia has developed a unique process to screen and invest in top-performing, innovative companies that include women at the helm). Startups that engage with Astia get access to a network of 6,000+ advisors and investors worldwide, plus a chance to receive investment from the Astia Fund. Astia’s model isn’t a traditional cohort with classes; instead, entrepreneurs can apply at any time to be considered for Astia’s expert review process . If accepted, you gain entrée to mentorship, investor connections, and potentially Astia’s funding. Essentially, Astia “bridges the gap” for women entrepreneurs seeking venture capital.

• Focus & Support: Astia provides what they call “investment, access to networks, and market analysis” to women-led startups  This means if you are selected, Astia’s team and network will actively work with you to refine your investment strategy, connect you with the right investors or corporate partners, and may directly invest in your round. It’s like having a powerful advocate in the VC world that is committed to leveling the playing field for women.
  
• Eligibility: Companies (typically in tech, life sciences, health, etc.) that have a woman in a leadership role (CEO or significant equity owner). Astia tends to work with startups that are at least at the seed or growth stage – often looking for those seeking venture funding. Since Astia is global, Oregon startups can apply and if accepted, participate virtually in their process.
  

Springboard Enterprises (Global)

Springboard Enterprises is a renowned accelerator network that has been propelling women-led companies since 2000. It is a global network of entrepreneurs, investors, and advisors accelerating the success of women entrepreneurs in technology, biotech, life sciences, and other high-growth industries). Springboard’s programs are highly competitive and selective. They run sector-focused accelerator cohorts (for example, a Digital Health accelerator or a Fashion & Tech program, etc.), where selected female founders receive coaching from experts, investor pitch opportunities, and membership in Springboard’s alumnae network. Over the years, Springboard alumnae have raised billions in funding – it’s a testament to the doors this program can open.

• Focus & Support: Springboard is all about investment readiness and access to capital. If you get into a Springboard program, you’ll go through an intensive bootcamp-style mentorship, perfect your pitch, and then present to panels of investors and industry leaders. The non-monetary support is huge: you gain lifelong access to Springboard’s network and events. There’s no upfront funding given, but many alumnae secure venture capital or strategic partnerships through the program.
  
• Eligibility: Women-led businesses (must have a female CEO or woman in a key decision-making role with equity) that are seeking growth funding. Typically, your company should have a product in market with some traction (customers, revenue, or pilots) and be in a high-growth sector. Springboard is national/international, so Oregon companies can apply and would likely participate in virtual and in-person events if selected.
  
  

Accelerator Programs through Oregon Universities and Networks

In addition to dedicated women’s accelerators, Oregon entrepreneurs can tap into local startup accelerator programs that, while not women-only, have strong inclusivity track records and often offer special initiatives for women founders:

• Oregon State University – ADVANCE/Accelerate Programs: For example, OSU’s Advantage Accelerator has a program called “Moxie” aimed at empowering women innovators (for OSU students/faculty and community). This 15-month program guides women through entrepreneurship education, mentorship, and venture launch support. If you have ties to OSU or are a woman in STEM academia looking to commercialize research, programs like this can be invaluable.
  
• Onward Eugene – Women’s Business Network: Onward Eugene, a nonprofit in Eugene, OR, has launched initiatives like the Onward Women’s Network (OWN) – a year-long development program for women with a focus on leadership and entrepreneurship . They also have hosted women-only pitch competitions and events to elevate female foundersThese can serve as a quasi-accelerator, providing pitch coaching, mentorship, and connections in a regional setting.
  
• Regional Accelerators (RAIN Oregon, OEN): The Regional Accelerator & Innovation Network (RAIN), which operates in various Oregon communities, and the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN) aren’t gender-specific, but they strongly support women entrepreneurs. RAIN often partners in accelerators for rural Oregon startups (many women-owned businesses participate), and OEN runs sector-based angel investment accelerators (like Angel Food for food/bev startups, etc.) where women founders have been past winners. Don’t hesitate to apply to these programs as a female founder – in recent OEN accelerators, women-led startups have frequently taken home the top investments.
  

Additional Resources and Support for Oregon Women in Business

Aside from grants and accelerators, Oregon women entrepreneurs can leverage numerous mentorship networks, business support platforms, and directories to help launch and grow their ventures. Below are some key resources and tips:

• Women’s Business Center (WBC): The Oregon Women’s Business Center, now hosted by Livelihood NW (formerly at Mercy Corps NW), offers free business counseling, training workshops, and networking for women entrepreneurs statewide Membership is free and open to all – you can access one-on-one advising, information on local grant opportunities, and more through the WBC .This is a fantastic starting point for new entrepreneurs to get help with business plans, marketing, and financing strategies. 
• SCORE Mentors: SCORE is a national mentor network, and Oregon has multiple SCORE chapters (in Portland, Central Oregon, Willamette Valley, etc.) that provide free mentorship for small businesses . You can be paired with an experienced business mentor (including women mentors if you prefer) who will guide you in everything from bookkeeping to scaling strategy. SCORE also runs free or low-cost workshops. Connecting with a SCORE mentor early on can greatly accelerate your learning and help you avoid common pitfalls.
  
• Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): Oregon’s SBDC network (through colleges and economic development agencies) offers free advising, classes, and market research help. While not women-specific, SBDCs often partner with WBCs and have advisors attuned to the challenges women entrepreneurs face. Check out Business Oregon and the Oregon SBDC Network for programs like business plan courses or microenterprise loans (
• Networking Organizations: Look for local women-in-business groups to expand your support system. For example, Women Entrepreneurs of Southern Oregon (WESO) is a network that holds events and peer support forums . NAWBO Oregon (National Association of Women Business Owners – Oregon chapter) connects women CEOs for advocacy, leadership development, and networking. Industry-specific groups like PDX Women in Tech (PDXWIT) can be great if you’re a female founder in the tech field, as they offer mentorship and a talent pipeline. Don’t underestimate the power of these communities – many entrepreneurs find mentors, co-founders, or simply moral support by attending meetups and conferences aimed at women in business.
  
• Business Support Platforms: Online platforms can link you to broader opportunities. Hello Alice is an excellent example – it’s essentially your “#1 resource for small business grants and resources,” offering a weekly digest of grant listings and a community of entrepreneur). By creating a free profile on Hello Alice, you can access grant applications, small business how-to guides, and even online events. Ladies Who Launch is another nonprofit providing resources; they have a curated Grants Navigator for women-owned businesses  (and have in the past run a grant program of their own). Platforms like these keep you in the loop on funding opportunities (beyond the ones listed above) and provide educational content tailored for women entrepreneurs.
  
• Mentorship and Coaching Programs: Beyond SCORE, consider programs like WBENC’s Student Entrepreneur Program (if you’re a student entrepreneur), or private mentorship circles like those run by Ladies Who Launch or online communities (e.g., Dreamers//Doers for female founders). Also, some accelerators we mentioned (like Xcelerate Women) continue to offer peer mentorship groups and coaching even outside of formal cohort sessions ) – you might tap into those networks by reaching out. Don’t be afraid to ask a seasoned businesswoman in your community to coffee; many successful Oregon entrepreneurs (like those in OEN’s network) are very willing to support up-and-coming women founders.
  
• Funding Directories and Tools: Keep a list of go-to resources for finding capital. Grants.gov is the portal for federal grants (mostly for nonprofits or R&D, but if you’re doing innovative tech or education projects, there might be options). GrantWatch and The Grant Portal list grants by state (Oregon) and category, though they may require a subscription to see details . For startup funding, if you’re looking into investors, organizations like Golden Seeds (a national angel network funding women-led companies) or Portland Seed Fund (regional fund that often invests in diverse founders) could be on your radar. Also, Coralus (formerly SheEO) is an unconventional fund where women entrepreneurs get 0% interest loans and surround-sound support from a community of women investors – a model worth checking out if traditional grants or equity aren’t a fit.
  

Finally, remember that knowledge is power. Take advantage of educational programs (many free) offered by the SBA, local universities, and libraries on entrepreneurship. For instance, Mercy Corps Northwest’s online business education platform and the Oregon Entrepreneurial Network’s webinars can build your skills in finance, marketing, and negotiation ). Combining strong business fundamentals with the grants, accelerators, and networks described above will set you up for success.