20 Minority Grants for Black Women-Owned Businesses You Can Apply for Today

If you are a Black woman looking for grants to start or grow your business, there are legitimate funding opportunities worth exploring.

However, not every program advertised as a business grant will give you money, and some grants that appear in online lists stopped accepting applications years ago.

The important thing is to focus on organizations that actually award business funding, understand their eligibility requirements, and apply for opportunities that match your business.

Some grants are specifically designed to support Black women and entrepreneurs of color.

Others accept women-owned businesses of all backgrounds, including Black-owned businesses.

You can also qualify for certain small business grants based on your industry, business location, revenue, or the problem your company is trying to solve.

Below are 20 grant programs, funding competitions, and specialized opportunities worth considering in 2026 and beyond. Some accept applications monthly or throughout the year, while others operate annual funding rounds. Where an application period has closed, you will find that clearly explained.

Quick Comparison of Grants for Black Women-Owned Businesses

If you want to concentrate on funding opportunities with current or recurring application periods, the following programs are good places to begin.

Important: Grant amounts, deadlines, and application rules can change between funding rounds.

You should always review the latest eligibility requirements before submitting an application or paying an application fee.

Small Business Grants With Monthly or Recurring Application Opportunities

1. WomensNet Amber Grant for Women

The Amber Grant is one of the more practical funding programs to consider if you are a Black woman starting a business or trying to expand an existing one.

Established by WomensNet in 1998 in memory of Amber Wigdahl, the program provides cash grants to women entrepreneurs across different industries.

Under its 2026 funding structure, WomensNet awards three separate $15,000 monthly grants:

• Amber Grant: For women-owned businesses in different industries, including qualifying established businesses.
• Startup Grant: For businesses in the idea stage or those with less than $10,000 in sales.
• Business-Specific Grant: For women-owned businesses operating in the industry selected for that month’s funding category.

Winners of these monthly awards also become eligible for additional $75,000 year-end grants.

The Business-Specific Grant covers different industries throughout the year, including food and beverage, health and wellness, beauty, childcare, creative arts, business services, and technology.

Who can apply? Women entrepreneurs who meet the requirements of the relevant grant category. The opportunity is not restricted to Black women, but Black women-owned businesses can qualify.

How to apply: Complete the WomensNet grant application, explain what your business does, and describe how receiving the funding would help you achieve a specific goal. One application can qualify you for multiple applicable awards.

There is a $15 application fee, and WomensNet provides a process for requesting a fee waiver.

Why this grant is worth considering: Unlike programs that require several years of operating history, the Startup Grant also considers entrepreneurs who have not yet generated substantial sales.

2. HerRise MicroGrant

If you own a small business but only need a modest amount of money to solve an immediate business problem, the HerRise MicroGrant is worth considering.

The program is operated through HerSuiteSpot in partnership with the Yva Jourdan Foundation.

It was designed to provide financial support to women of color who may face difficulties accessing traditional business funding. HerRise awards a $1,000 grant each month.

Eligibility requirements include:

• Your business must be registered in the United States.
• Your business must be at least 51% owned by women of color.
• Your business must generate less than $1 million in gross revenue.
• You must operate an eligible business type. Certain nonprofits, franchises, direct sellers, resellers, and independent consultants are excluded under the application rules.

The application requires you to explain what problem your business solves and how you would use the money. There is a nonrefundable $15 administrative application fee.

If you own a catering company, haircare business, cleaning company, retail store, or another qualifying small business, you could use the grant to address a specific need, provided the proposed expenses comply with the program’s rules.

Do not underestimate smaller grants. An additional $1,000 can be useful when you have a clearly defined business expense and a realistic plan for using the funding.

3. Hustler’s MicroGrant

The Hustler’s MicroGrant is another monthly funding opportunity administered through HerSuiteSpot, in partnership with Deja Vu Parker and the Yva Jourdan Foundation.

The program awards $1,000 to selected entrepreneurs and small business owners who can demonstrate how additional funding would move their businesses forward.

Unlike HerRise, this opportunity is not limited to women of color. However, Black women operating eligible businesses can apply.

Applicants should have a registered U.S. business, explain their business goals, and satisfy the program’s current participation requirements. The application carries a nonrefundable $15 administrative fee.

Best for: Entrepreneurs who need a relatively small grant to complete a measurable business improvement, such as launching a new service, improving marketing, or purchasing an essential business resource.

4. IFundWomen Startup Accelerator Grant

IFundWomen, also known as IFW, helps entrepreneurs access funding opportunities, business coaching, and other resources.

One of its opportunities is the IFW Startup Accelerator Grant, which offers a $5,000 cash award to one selected entrepreneur.

The program is particularly relevant if you have a business idea or an early-stage company and can clearly explain what the funding would accomplish.

Eligibility requirements include:

• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must be based in the United States.
• You must own at least 50% of your business.
• Idea-stage and pre-revenue businesses are eligible.

Applicants are evaluated on their business vision, proposed use of the funding, and potential for success and impact.

The grant does not require repayment or surrendering company equity. The application deadline is November 30, and the application carries a $5 fee.

My advice: Do not simply say that you need money to grow your business. Explain what $5,000 will purchase, what milestone it will help you reach, and how that milestone will improve your ability to generate revenue.

IFundWomen also operates a broader funding application system through which entrepreneurs can be considered for selected partner opportunities. Those additional grants have their own rules and application periods.

5. Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready is a business development program that combines training resources with opportunities to receive grant funding.

In partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Verizon is awarding $10,000 grants to selected small businesses throughout the year.

Ten businesses are selected during each monthly award cycle from June through December. To qualify, you must generally:

• Own an eligible for-profit small business in the United States or an eligible U.S. territory.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Create an account on the Digital Ready platform.
• Complete two qualifying courses or events during the specified 2026 period to unlock the grant application.
• Provide business and financial verification documents if selected.

The qualifying training activities must be completed by December 7, 2026, under the current program rules.

Once an eligible application is submitted, it remains under consideration for subsequent monthly selections without requiring a new application for every round.

The grant is not exclusively for Black women. However, the selection process gives attention to businesses in under-resourced communities, making it a relevant opportunity for qualifying entrepreneurs.

Best for: Small business owners who want to strengthen their business knowledge while competing for funding to support growth.

6. National Association for the Self-Employed Growth Grants

The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) provides Growth Grants of up to $4,000 to eligible members who want to improve or expand their businesses.

This is particularly relevant if you operate a small service business, work for yourself, or own a microbusiness with limited access to financing. Examples of eligible business expenses include:

• Advertising and marketing.
• Business equipment and software.
• Website development.
• Part-time employees.
• Office improvements.
• Professional development and business training.

You cannot use the grant to repay existing business debt or cover rent or mortgage payments.

Who qualifies? Eligible NASE members in good standing. Annual, Veteran, and Gold members can generally apply immediately, while monthly members must satisfy a 90-day membership requirement.

Applicants are expected to provide a business plan, a statement explaining how the funds will be used, and supporting financial documentation. Applications are reviewed quarterly.

Important: NASE is a membership-based organization. You should review the current membership fees and benefits before joining solely to pursue this grant.

7. Boundless Futures Foundation EmpowHer Grants

If your business addresses a meaningful social or environmental problem, the Boundless Futures Foundation EmpowHer Grant may be a better fit than a general small business grant.

The foundation supports women entrepreneurs building revenue-generating businesses that create measurable positive impact.

Recent EmpowHer awards have reached $50,000 per recipient, and the foundation announced another application round beginning November 1st.

The program is designed for qualifying early-stage businesses that are already generating revenue and have been operating for no more than five years.

Examples of businesses that may fit its funding priorities include companies developing environmentally responsible products, improving access to healthcare, or solving problems affecting underserved communities.

Applicants must explain their business model, social impact, financial needs, and proposed use of the grant.

One important condition: EmpowHer funding is generally provided as reimbursement for eligible business expenses. You may need to pay approved expenses first and provide receipts before receiving reimbursement.

This makes the program particularly useful for founders who have a viable business and some financial capacity to execute an approved project, rather than entrepreneurs seeking emergency cash without existing resources.

8. Black Girl Ventures Pitch Competition

Black Girl Ventures (BGV) is one of the more relevant organizations for Black women entrepreneurs seeking funding, business connections, and support with pitching their companies.

Its pitch competitions bring entrepreneurs together with funders, business professionals, and community members who participate in selecting and supporting promising businesses.

Rather than relying entirely on a traditional panel of judges, the BGV model includes audience participation and community-supported fundraising.

The organization has offered cash prizes and founder-development opportunities through city-based competitions.

Who should consider it? Black and Brown women entrepreneurs with a business they can explain convincingly to an audience. You should be prepared to discuss:

• The problem your business solves.
• Who your customers are.
• How your business makes money.
• What makes your company different from competitors.
• How additional funding would help you reach your next milestone.

Applications are accepted for selected competitions in different cities, and specific eligibility rules and prize amounts vary by event.

Best for: Entrepreneurs who can benefit from both funding and valuable business relationships.

Business Fellowships and Specialized Funding Opportunities

9. Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program

The Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program supports women entrepreneurs who have already started generating meaningful business revenue and need guidance to move to the next stage.

The program provides business coaching, access to experienced advisors, networking opportunities, and a $2,000 education grant for selected fellows.

It is important to understand that this is primarily a business development fellowship, not an unrestricted grant for purchasing inventory or paying business expenses.

Eligibility requirements for the current application cycle include:

• Applicants must be women entrepreneurs aged 21 or older.
• The business must be at least 51% owned and controlled by women.
• The business must operate in the United States.
• The business must generate at least $75,000 in annual revenue.
• The applicant must have a significant management role in the business.

The current application deadline is November 17th. There is no application fee.

If you already have customers, consistent sales, and a growing business, the professional support offered by this fellowship may be more valuable than a small one-time cash award.

10. Southern SARE Producer Grants

If you are a Black woman operating a farm in the Southern United States, the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program provides opportunities worth investigating.

Southern SARE Producer Grants support farmers and ranchers who want to test practical solutions to agricultural production problems.

For the funding cycle, individual producers can seek up to $20,000, while qualifying producer organizations can request up to $25,000. The application deadline for this cycle is November 6th.

These grants are not intended to provide unrestricted startup capital or pay someone simply to operate a farm.

Instead, eligible projects involve sustainable agriculture research, demonstrations, or practical investigations that can produce useful knowledge for other farmers.

For example, you might develop a project to test a more sustainable production method, examine a farming challenge, or evaluate an agricultural practice that could benefit producers in your region.

The program uses a reimbursement structure for approved expenses, so applicants should review cash-flow and documentation requirements carefully.

11. North Central SARE Farmer Rancher Grants

The North Central SARE Farmer Rancher Grant Program provides funding to farmers and ranchers conducting practical sustainable agriculture projects in its participating states.

The current funding structure offers:

• Up to $15,000 for individual farmer or rancher projects.
• Up to $30,000 for qualifying team projects involving two or more farmers or ranchers.

The application deadline for the current cycle is December 3, 2026.

Successful proposals must demonstrate how the project addresses a meaningful agricultural problem and contributes to sustainable farming knowledge.

Best for: Farmers interested in testing new production techniques, improving sustainability, or demonstrating practical agricultural solutions.

You should review the regional eligibility rules before applying because the program does not fund projects outside its designated service area.

12. Northeast SARE Farmer Grants

Northeast SARE provides funding for commercial farmers who want to test innovative ideas through on-farm research, demonstrations, and related agricultural projects.

Its Farmer Grant cycle offers awards of up to $50,000, depending on project scope. The application deadline is December 8th.

Applicants must develop a credible research or demonstration project and work with a technical advisor who can contribute relevant expertise.

For example, a qualifying farmer might investigate an environmentally sustainable production method, test an agricultural innovation, or explore a problem that affects farm productivity.

Important: This is a project-based agricultural grant. It is not a general grant to purchase farmland, cover household bills, or finance an unrelated business.

13. America’s Seed Fund Through the National Science Foundation

If you are a Black woman developing a technology-based company, America’s Seed Fund through the National Science Foundation (NSF) may provide a much larger funding opportunity than ordinary microgrants.

Through its Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs, NSF supports eligible American businesses developing innovative technologies with commercial potential.

Qualified businesses may receive significant non-dilutive research and development funding, with NSF advertising up to $2 million across applicable funding stages.

However, this opportunity is not intended for ordinary business expenses such as opening a retail store, purchasing standard office furniture, or financing a conventional service business.

Your proposed technology must involve substantial innovation and research or development risk.

General eligibility requirements include operating an eligible U.S. small business, meeting applicable ownership rules, and having a qualified principal investigator responsible for the proposed research.

Applicants normally begin by submitting a Project Pitch before moving through the relevant proposal process.

Best for: Entrepreneurs developing innovations in fields such as healthcare technology, robotics, advanced materials, energy, artificial intelligence, and other eligible scientific or engineering areas.

Do not pursue this program simply because the award amounts are large. Your business and proposed research must genuinely match the program’s technical requirements.

Additional Grants and Competitions to Monitor for Future Application Rounds

The following programs have established funding histories, but their latest application rounds may already be closed. They are worth monitoring if your business fits their eligibility requirements.

14. Galaxy Grants by Hidden Star

Galaxy Grants are offered through Galaxy of Stars, a platform supported by the nonprofit organization Hidden Star.

The program has provided grants to women and minority entrepreneurs, including aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs operating established businesses.

Its recent grant offering was $2,500, with a free application process. The October application round closes on October 31st, so you should look for confirmation of another round before attempting to apply.

This opportunity may be useful if you are still planning your business or have recently launched and need a relatively small amount of funding.

Best for: Aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to compete for modest cash awards without paying an application fee.

15. The Halstead Grant

The Halstead Grant is a specialized opportunity for entrepreneurs developing jewelry businesses, particularly those working with silver jewelry.

The award recognizes emerging jewelry designers who demonstrate both creative ability and sound business planning. The grand prize includes:

• A $7,500 cash grant.
• A $1,000 jewelry-supply gift card.
• Business feedback and industry recognition.
• Additional professional development benefits.

Applicants are generally required to submit jewelry design examples and answer questions about their business strategy.

The application deadline is May 1st. Jewelry entrepreneurs should review the requirements for the next announced cycle.

Unlike broad business grant competitions, this program is especially useful if you have already developed jewelry products and want to build a commercially viable brand.

16. Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation Grants

The Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation provides specialized financial and professional development opportunities for people working in the jewelry industry.

One example is the Carelle Grant, which offered $7,500 this year to help an established jewelry or watch professional improve business operations through technology, education, or operational innovation.

The program is intended for applicants with meaningful experience in the industry rather than complete beginners.

The association also offers other grants, scholarships, and educational opportunities, each with different requirements.

The relevant grant application period has closed but interested applicants should monitor the foundation for the next announced cycle.

Best for: Established jewelry entrepreneurs seeking targeted professional or operational improvements.

17. Cartier Women’s Initiative

The Cartier Women’s Initiative offers substantial funding to women entrepreneurs building businesses that address social or environmental problems.

It is a competitive international program, and eligible Black women entrepreneurs based in the United States can apply under the appropriate regional or thematic award category.

The regional award structure provides:

• $100,000 for first-place awardees.
• $60,000 for second-place awardees.
• $30,000 for third-place awardees.

Selected entrepreneurs also receive mentoring, business training, leadership development, and international visibility. However, this is not the right program for every small business.

Applicants must operate qualifying impact-driven companies and meet detailed requirements covering revenue, business ownership, company maturity, team size, and measurable impact.

For the next edition, regional applicants were generally expected to have annual revenue between $50,000 and $5 million and meet the program’s other operational conditions.

Entrepreneurs should monitor future announcements rather than assume submissions are being accepted continuously.

Best for: Women founders with established, innovative businesses that can demonstrate meaningful social or environmental results.

18. Women Founders Network Fast Pitch Competition

The Women Founders Network operates a business pitch competition that provides funding and professional support to selected women-led startups.

Its competition includes separate categories for technology businesses and consumer-focused companies.

The award structure offers $25,000 to the winning business in each category, with an additional $5,000 grant selected through its junior venture capital program.

Eligible businesses must satisfy the organization’s ownership, funding, business-location, and participation requirements.

The competition also requires finalists to attend an in-person pitch event in Los Angeles, and travel expenses may be the responsibility of the applicant.

Applications for the competition are usually scheduled for April 1st through May 31st.

Best for: Women-owned startups with promising products, evidence of customer interest, and founders who are comfortable presenting to business professionals and investors.

19. USDA Value-Added Producer Grants

The USDA Value-Added Producer Grant program supports eligible agricultural producers who want to create additional value from the products they produce.

For example, a qualifying agricultural producer may want to turn farm products into processed or packaged products, develop new markets, or conduct planning activities for a value-added agricultural venture.

Under this year funding cycle, eligible applicants could seek up to $50,000 for planning activities or up to $200,000 for working capital.

The program generally requires matching contributions and adherence to detailed agricultural producer eligibility rules.

Applications for the cycle usually closes around April. Future funding depends on subsequent announcements and available appropriations.

Best for: Farmers and qualifying agricultural producers with a credible plan to increase the commercial value of their agricultural products.

If your business is in agriculture, you can also review our guide to USDA grants for women and Black farmers for additional background on agricultural funding.

20. American Express Backing Small Businesses Grants

Backing Small Businesses is a grant program supported by American Express and administered through Main Street America.

The program has provided funding to small businesses that contribute to the economic and social vitality of their local communities.

Its program awarded $10,000 grants to selected businesses for projects supporting long-term growth, resilience, and community impact.

The latest advertised application round is closed, and another application period should not be assumed until it is officially announced.

If you operate a neighborhood retail store, restaurant, service business, or another locally significant small business, this is a program worth monitoring.

Applicants should be prepared to explain why their business matters to the community and how a defined project would improve its long-term prospects.

Best for: Established community-based businesses with a clear plan for improving their operations, facilities, or customer experience.

Where Else Can Black Women Find Legitimate Business Grants?

Do not limit your search to programs advertised specifically for Black women. Sometimes the most realistic funding opportunity is a grant offered by your city, state, local business development organization, or industry association.

State and Local Small Business Grants

Many cities and states operate business assistance programs intended to encourage local investment, improve commercial neighborhoods, support job creation, or strengthen disadvantaged communities.

The available funding may depend on your business address, revenue, number of employees, industry, and proposed business activity.

For example, some local programs support storefront improvements, commercial building renovations, business equipment, or specific neighborhood development projects.

You can begin by checking your city’s economic development department, state economic development agency, local chamber of commerce, and community development organizations.

Important: A local grant may only reimburse approved expenses after you have paid them.

Some programs also require matching funds, a long-term lease, or an operating business at an eligible address.

Minority Business Development Agency and Business Assistance Centers

The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is a resource for eligible minority-owned businesses looking for business development assistance.

However, you should not confuse MBDA’s business assistance services with a direct grant program for every minority entrepreneur.

MBDA does not generally provide grants directly to individuals to start or expand ordinary businesses.

Its grant funding primarily supports qualifying organizations that deliver business assistance services.

Eligible entrepreneurs may receive guidance on business development, financing preparation, contracting opportunities, and other commercial needs through supported centers.

You can also explore other Black and minority business funding opportunities that may be relevant to your business.

Corporate Grant Programs and Business Competitions

Large companies sometimes fund business competitions as part of their community investment, entrepreneurship, or small business development initiatives.

Programs such as Visa She’s Next, AT&T’s Small Business Contest, and eBay’s Up & Running Grants have offered business awards in selected markets or funding cycles.

However, the existence of a past grant does not mean applications are currently open.

Funding amounts, eligible countries, business requirements, and submission periods can change.

Before applying, establish whether the program has announced a new application round for businesses in the United States.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a Business Grant?

You do not need to prepare the same documents for every grant. Some microgrants only require a short application, while larger awards may demand detailed financial statements and supporting records.

Nevertheless, preparing the following documents can make your application process easier:

• Business registration documents: Evidence that your company is legally formed or registered, where required.
• Business description: A clear explanation of what you sell, who your customers are, and how the business makes money.
• Financial information: Revenue, expenses, profit and loss statements, or tax records when requested.
• Business plan: A practical description of your business model, market, goals, and financial expectations.
• Grant budget: A breakdown of how you intend to spend the requested funding.
• Ownership documentation: Evidence of qualifying ownership percentages for programs restricted to women-owned or minority-owned businesses.
• Supporting evidence: Customer orders, product photographs, testimonials, licenses, or other records relevant to the grant.

You should also check whether your industry requires professional licenses, health permits, insurance, certifications, or other regulatory approvals.

Receiving grant funding does not remove your responsibility to comply with applicable business laws.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Business Grant

Most grant organizations receive more applications than they can fund. A well-prepared application does not guarantee an award, but it can help you avoid common mistakes.

Choose Grants That Match Your Business

If you own a cleaning company, applying for a specialized technology research grant will probably waste your time. A general small business grant may be more appropriate.

Likewise, if you operate a farm and want to test a new sustainable production method, an agricultural research grant may be more relevant than a retail business competition.

Explain Exactly How You Will Use the Money

Do not simply write that you need $10,000 to expand your business. Instead, explain what you intend to purchase, why the purchase is necessary, and what business result you expect.

For example, a business owner requesting $5,000 could explain that the money would fund a particular equipment purchase, with the goal of increasing production capacity or reducing the cost of fulfilling customer orders.

The important thing is to connect the requested funding to a realistic business outcome.

Understand the Cost of Applying

Some established private grant programs charge modest application fees, while others are free.

A fee does not automatically mean a program is fraudulent, but it also does not improve your chances of winning.

Before paying, confirm the identity of the grant administrator, review the published rules, and determine whether the opportunity is suitable for your business.

Never pay an unexpected processing, tax, or release fee to someone claiming you have already won a grant.

Also, remember that business grants may have tax consequences. The treatment depends on the nature of the award and applicable tax rules, so you should consult a qualified tax professional where necessary.