Business Grants Available for Black Women Entrepreneurs

Access to capital remains a significant challenge for Black women entrepreneurs, who often face systemic barriers in securing traditional financing. To address this disparity, various organizations and initiatives offer grants specifically designed to support Black women-owned businesses. These grants provide vital funding without the obligation of repayment, enabling entrepreneurs to start, sustain, or expand their ventures. Below is an overview of notable grant opportunities available in 2025:

1. HerRise MicroGrant

Overview: The HerRise MicroGrant provides monthly grants of $1,000 to women-owned small businesses, with a particular focus on women of color. These funds can assist with projects such as launching a website, purchasing equipment, or developing marketing materials.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Business must be at least 51% woman-owned.
• Priority given to women of color.

Application Details: Applications are accepted on a rolling monthly basis. Interested entrepreneurs can apply through the official website.

2. Amber Grant

Overview: Established by WomensNet, the Amber Grant awards $10,000 each month to a woman-owned business. At the end of the year, one of the 12 monthly recipients receives an additional $25,000 grant. The application process is straightforward, requiring applicants to share their business journey and aspirations.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Business must be at least 50% woman-owned.
• Open to businesses based in the U.S. or Canada.

Application Details: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with winners announced monthly.

3. Galaxy of Stars Grants

Overview: Galaxy of Stars supports women and minority entrepreneurs through grants such as the $2,450 Galaxy Grant Giveaway and the Dream Business Bundle, valued at over $23,000 in cash and business services.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must be women or minority entrepreneurs based in the U.S.

Application Details: Application periods typically occur between March and April. Prospective applicants should monitor the Galaxy of Stars website for specific dates and application instructions.

4. Wish Local Empowerment Program

Overview: Wish’s Empowerment Program offers financial assistance ranging from $500 to $2,000 to Black-owned small businesses. The program aims to support businesses in establishing and sustaining their operations.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Business must be Black-owned.
• Must have 20 or fewer employees.
• Located in the U.S.

Application Details: Applications are managed directly through Wish’s website.

5. NAACP Powershift Entrepreneur Grant

Overview: In collaboration with The Shark Group and Medium Rare, the NAACP offers the Powershift Entrepreneur Grant, awarding $25,000 to select Black-owned businesses annually. Recipients also receive mentorship and resources to support their business growth.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Business must be Black-owned.

Application Details: Application timelines for 2025 have not yet been announced. Interested entrepreneurs should regularly check the NAACP website for updates.

6. Coalition to Back Black Businesses

Overview: This multi-year initiative provides $5,000 grants to Black-owned small businesses annually. A select number of recipients may also receive $25,000 enhancement grants the following year. The program includes training and resources to empower Black entrepreneurs.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Business must be Black-owned.
• Must employ between 3 and 20 people.
• Located in an economically vulnerable community.

Application Details: Applications are typically accepted each fall. Entrepreneurs should visit the official website for specific dates and application procedures.

7. Famous Amos Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative

Overview: In partnership with the National Black Chamber of Commerce, Famous Amos offers grants totaling $150,000 to Black-owned businesses. The initiative aims to provide financial support and mentorship to emerging entrepreneurs.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Business must be at least 90% Black-owned.
• In operation for five years or less.

Application Details: Application information for 2025 has not yet been announced. Entrepreneurs should monitor the Famous Amos website for updates.

8. HerRise MicroGrant

Overview: The HerRise MicroGrant provides $1,000 monthly grants to women-owned small businesses, focusing on women of color. These grants assist with various business needs, including launching websites, purchasing equipment, or creating marketing materials.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Business must be at least 51% woman-owned.
• Priority given to women of color.

Application Details: Applications are accepted monthly. Interested entrepreneurs can apply through the official website.

Note: While some grant programs have yet to announce specific application dates for 2025, entrepreneurs are encouraged to regularly check the respective websites for updates. Additionally, considering the competitive nature of grants, it’s advisable to prepare applications thoroughly and explore multiple funding opportunities to increase the likelihood of securing financial support.

Written by Hope Greene