Grants for Women-Owned Businesses in Florida

Supporting women-owned businesses has become a crucial step toward economic empowerment and equality. Florida offers a variety of grants specifically tailored to help women entrepreneurs thrive, providing financial assistance, mentorship, and access to resources. Whether you are launching a startup, expanding your current business, or recovering from unforeseen challenges, these opportunities can give you the boost you need. Below is a comprehensive list of grants designed to help women-owned businesses in Florida succeed.

The 10 Best Free Grants for Women-Owned Businesses in Florida

1. The Big Idea Grant

• Aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs with mentorship, financial assistance, and resources to turn their dreams into successful businesses.

• Offers $1,000 monthly to one recipient for business investment.

• Includes exclusive access to a wealth mindset coaching group to foster personal and professional growth.

• Designed specifically by women for women to provide tailored support for achieving success.

• Apply Here: Big Idea Grant Application

2. Prospera Small Business Grants

• Supports Hispanic entrepreneurs in Florida with free professional services, such as legal, accounting, and marketing assistance.

• Tailored for starting new businesses or expanding existing ones.

• Eligibility: Available to Hispanic entrepreneurs in Florida.

• How to Apply: Visit the Prospera Small Business Grants Webpage for application details.

3. BMO Celebrating Women Grant

• Provides $10,000 grants to 15 women-owned small businesses, supporting growth and expansion plans.

• Eligibility Requirements:

• Business must be located in eligible states, including Florida.

• Must have been operational for at least two years.

• Annual revenue must be below $5 million.

• How to Apply: For details, visit the BMO Celebrating Women Grant Program

4. Amber Grant

• Specifically created to assist women during their business’s early and operational stages.

• Monthly grants of $10,000 with an additional opportunity to win a $25,000 year-end grant.

• Eligibility: Women entrepreneurs looking for financial support to grow or start their business in Florida.

• How to Apply: Visit the Amber Grant Application Page for more details.

5. Center of Anna Maria Island Tourism Grants

• Offers up to $500 for tourism-related businesses, including disadvantaged small businesses owned by veterans and minorities.

• Provides financial relief for businesses impacted by hurricanes Helene or Milton.

• Apply Here: https://mywrc.jotform.com/243116034093043

6. Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program

• Offers financial support for rebuilding businesses affected by hurricanes Milton or Helene.

• Grants range from $50,000 to $100,000 in low-cost or interest-free loans.

• Learn More: Visit the Florida Business Assistance Program here

7. Jacksonville Minority Micro-Grants

• Provides $1,000 micro-grants to minority-owned businesses in Jacksonville.

• Program runs through early 2025 and is funded by the Community First Cares Foundation and Melanin Market.

• Learn More: Melanin Collaborative Group Grants here

8. Miami District 10 Mom and Pop Small Business Grant Program

• Offers $5,000 grants to small businesses in the Miami District 10 area.

• Funds can be used for advertising, equipment, or physical business needs.

• Open to minority, veteran, and women-owned businesses.

• Get Details: Mom and Pop Grant Program here

9. Quincy Community Redevelopment Agency Grant

• Provides $10,000 grants to businesses in Quincy, FL, to modernize or repair their physical locations.

• Available to Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE).

• Contact: Dial 850-618-1884 for more information.

10. Black Opportunity Scholarship

• A scholarship program supporting Black leaders starting or running businesses.

• Includes training, skill development, and educational support.

• Offered by Florida Technical College in partnership with the African American Chamber of Commerce.

• Apply Here: Black Opportunity Scholarship.

The Importance of Mentorship After Receiving a Grant

1. Strategic Guidance: Mentors help recipients develop strategies to effectively allocate grant funds and make impactful decisions for business growth.

2. Building Confidence: With expert advice and encouragement, women entrepreneurs can overcome self-doubt and navigate challenges with greater confidence.

3. Expanding Networks: Mentorship programs often connect grant recipients with industry leaders, creating opportunities for partnerships and collaborations.

4. Skill Development: Ongoing training and coaching improve leadership, financial management, and marketing skills essential for long-term success.

5. Sustainability Focus: Mentors help businesses focus on building sustainable models, ensuring growth beyond the immediate financial support of the grant.

Conclusion

Grants offer women entrepreneurs more than just financial support—they provide a pathway to growth, mentorship, and long-term success. With guidance from experienced mentors, recipients can maximize the benefits of their grants, build sustainable businesses, and create a lasting impact. If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, these grants are an excellent starting point to turn your dreams into reality. Don’t wait—apply today and unlock the potential for your business to thrive!