Women Founders Grant

Women founders in the United States may apply for a $5,000 merit-based grant to start or grow a majority women-owned business. Winners also receive business mentorship and growth support.

Eligibility

Applicants must be women aged 18 or older and based in the United States. The applicant may have an existing business or a business idea, but the venture must be at least 51% women-owned and operated. Businesses may be at the idea stage or already generating revenue, and both B2B and B2C models are accepted. The programme does not fund cannabis, vice-industry or hate-based businesses.

Award and support

Selected founders receive a $5,000 grant paid as a single lump sum. Recipients also receive mentorship, go-to-market support and access to founder resources.

Application

Applicants answer two questions describing what inspired the business, its future vision and how the grant would be used. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to a blind interview before the final selection.

Fee

A $25 non-refundable application fee applies. The funder states that this is the only fee and that successful applicants are not charged an additional award fee.

Deadline

The current application deadline is 31 October 2026. Ghanaian and other non-U.S.-based founders are not eligible under the published requirements.