Statistics show that around 849 new female-led businesses open every day. That's an increase of 114% since the early 2000s! A number worth celebrating. However, raising funds as a female entrepreneur for a creative start-up is still challenging. Thankfully, there are an array of business grants for women-owned startups and small businesses. Whether it be from female investors, women's groups, or feminist organisations—support is available for those who seek it.

Start browsing your options now. Who runs the world? Girls!

SoGal Black Founder Startup Grant

Ideal for: black-owned businesses

SoGal is on a mission to support Black women in their business endeavours. Black female entrepreneurs receive less than 0.5% of venture capital funding, SoGal's start-up grant is designed to change that. SoGal Grant awardees can receive $5,000 to $10,000 cash grants and benefit from an "Ask Me Anything" programme led by the SoGal team to support and assist with the trials and tribulations of running a new company.

In 2020, Un-Ruly, founded by Antonia and Abigail Opiah received a $10,000 cash grant. Today their nearly 10,000 fans on Instagram act as proof that business is thriving. Want the same for your business? Take your first step by filling out the SoGal application form!

37 Angels

Ideal for: high-risk, high-reward ventures

Founded by women, for women. 37 Angels is a community of female angel investors who are dedicated to investing in businesses owned by women. They know and acknowledge your struggles in running a business, and because of that, you know you're in good hands. 37 Angels invests in up to 10 female-led startups annually and offers up to $150,000 in cash grants! Learn more about the application process on their website.

Cartier Women's Initiative

Ideal for: eco-advocates

The Cartier Women's Initiative is a yearly global entrepreneurship program that rewards and recognises high-impact businesswomen who practice commendable sustainable business efforts. Open to all women-run businesses, every year three Cartier Women's Initiative regional awardees receive financial support of up to USD$100,000. Plus, awardees will also receive human capital aid and social opportunities.

Keep track of the application schedules on the Cartier Women's Initiative website.

Amber Grant from WomensNet

Ideal for: passion-driven projects

The Amber Grant was founded in memory of Amber Wigdahl, an ambitious, to-be businesswoman who passed too early at the age of 19. In honour of her memory, WomensNet donates $30,000 per month to a woman-owned business. In addition, the network has extended its reach by offering different opportunities such as marketing grants, business category grants, and two annual $25,000 cash grants.

Learn more about how to apply for a grant here. All grant awardees are announced on the 23rd of each month, set a reminder now.

IFundWomen

Ideal for: new business owners

IFundWomen provides an online platform for female business owners seeking funding. Here, you can raise capital through fundraising or through small business grants. Additionally, there are opportunities for business coaching and networking with like-minded individuals!

IFundWomen has partnerships with tons of international companies, browse all available opportunities on the official IFundWomen website!