Empowering women through entrepreneurship is not just a matter of equality it’s a strategic investment in global economic development. Across continents, women continue to face unique challenges in accessing capital, mentorship, and business networks. While venture capital and loans have historically favored male-led startups, a growing number of grant programs now aim to level the playing field. These grants provide non-repayable funding to women entrepreneurs, allowing them to start or expand their businesses without incurring debt. From global initiatives to region-specific programs, these opportunities are catalyzing innovation, creating jobs, and breaking down systemic barriers. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best grant programs for women entrepreneurs worldwide, providing insight into eligibility, application processes, and the impact they’ve had on women-led ventures.
Cartier Women’s Initiative
One of the most prestigious global programs supporting women entrepreneurs is the Cartier Women’s Initiative. Launched in 2006 by Cartier in partnership with INSEAD Business School, this annual international business competition awards grants to women-led, for-profit businesses with a strong social or environmental impact. Finalists receive funding up to $100,000, personalized business coaching, and access to a powerful global network. The program is open to women from all over the world and operates across nine regions. More than just a grant, the initiative provides visibility and credibility to early-stage businesses that might otherwise struggle to gain traction.
Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative (We-Fi)
Managed by the World Bank Group, the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative is a multilateral partnership that mobilizes public and private sector resources to support women entrepreneurs in developing countries. We-Fi doesn’t provide grants directly to individuals but works with financial institutions and development organizations to create better access to finance, mentorship, and markets for women-owned businesses. We-Fi has mobilized billions in funding and has supported over 150,000 women entrepreneurs since its inception. Through local implementing partners, entrepreneurs can benefit from training, grants, and business development services tailored to their region.
Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program
The Tory Burch Foundation supports women entrepreneurs in the United States through a highly selective fellows program. Each year, 50 women are selected to receive a $5,000 grant for business education, as well as a year-long fellowship with access to workshops, coaching, and networking opportunities. The program emphasizes leadership development and community support. Fellows also receive a trip to Tory Burch’s headquarters in New York for a week of workshops and networking. It’s a unique opportunity for women looking to scale their businesses and enhance their leadership skills.
Amber Grant for Women
Established in 1998, the Amber Grant is one of the most accessible funding opportunities for women in the United States and Canada. Named after a young woman who passed away before fulfilling her entrepreneurial dreams, the foundation awards at least $10,000 to one female entrepreneur each month, with a chance to win an additional $25,000 at the end of the year. The application process is straightforward—no lengthy business plans are required making it ideal for early-stage entrepreneurs. The Amber Grant program also includes grants for specific industries such as fashion, health, and technology.
SheTrades by the International Trade Centre
The SheTrades Initiative by the International Trade Centre aims to connect three million women entrepreneurs to markets by 2025. Although SheTrades is not a direct grant provider, it offers access to a wide range of financial resources, training, and trade opportunities. The SheTrades platform enables women entrepreneurs to showcase their products, access e-learning modules, and connect with buyers and investors. It also collaborates with governments and institutions to improve policies and promote gender-inclusive trade.
DigitalUndivided’s BIG Incubator Program
Focused on Black and Latina women entrepreneurs, DigitalUndivided runs the BIG Incubator Program, which combines grant funding with mentorship and training in business development, tech innovation, and pitching. Participants receive stipends and access to expert networks that address the unique barriers faced by women of color in the startup ecosystem. The program is based in Atlanta, Georgia, and has helped numerous founders transition from idea stage to funding-ready ventures. This initiative addresses the intersectionality of race and gender in entrepreneurship, providing a culturally competent support system.
The Female Founders Fund
While technically not a grant, the Female Founders Fund deserves mention for its role in supporting women entrepreneurs through early-stage venture capital. This fund specifically invests in women-led technology companies across sectors such as fintech, healthtech, and consumer products. While competitive, startups led by women founders who are building scalable and innovative solutions are encouraged to apply. The fund has backed prominent companies like Zola, Billie, and Maven Clinic, contributing to the visibility and success of women in high-growth industries.
InnovateHER Challenge (USA)
Though previously run by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the InnovateHER Challenge still serves as a model for community-driven business competitions that award funding to women entrepreneurs. This challenge rewards businesses that impact women’s lives, whether through health, education, or work-life balance. Regional competitions are held across the U.S., and winners advance to national rounds for the chance to win substantial grant prizes. Entrepreneurs looking for similar opportunities should check local SBA offices or women’s business centers for upcoming programs modeled after InnovateHER.
Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST)
The GIST Initiative by the U.S. Department of State supports science and tech-based entrepreneurs around the world, with many programs geared toward women in emerging economies. Through pitch competitions, bootcamps, and grants, GIST enables women entrepreneurs to gain technical training, investor access, and mentorship. Programs like the GIST Tech-I competition award cash grants and travel stipends to finalists, helping them bring their innovative solutions to market. Women-led startups in science and technology are strongly encouraged to apply.
Women in Innovation Fund (WiNFUND)
WiNFUND is an initiative focused on funding African women entrepreneurs in the health tech space. Leveraging blockchain technology and NFT sales, WiNFUND supports women creating digital health solutions across Africa. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000 and come with access to mentorship, pitch coaching, and investor connections. The fund targets scalable ventures that can improve access to healthcare for underserved populations. It represents a new frontier in impact investing by combining digital finance tools with gender equity goals.
Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant Program
Sustainable fashion brand Eileen Fisher offers annual grants to women-owned businesses that promote social and environmental change. The program focuses on businesses that are majority women-owned and committed to creating positive environmental or social impact. Awardees receive grants ranging from $10,000 to $40,000 and benefit from mentorship and media exposure. Past recipients have included organizations focused on sustainable agriculture, renewable textiles, and ethical labor practices. It’s an excellent opportunity for women entrepreneurs working at the intersection of sustainability and social enterprise.
Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES)
The Women Entrepreneurship Strategy is a national initiative by the Canadian government that includes over $6 billion in investment to support women entrepreneurs. WES offers direct funding through regional development agencies, innovation hubs, and the Women Entrepreneurship Fund. Programs range from micro-grants for early-stage startups to larger investments for scaling businesses. The strategy also emphasizes mentorship, ecosystem-building, and access to export markets. Canadian women entrepreneurs are encouraged to explore WES-backed local programs and accelerators.
EU Funding for Female Entrepreneurs
Women in the European Union can access a variety of EU-funded programs that support entrepreneurship and innovation. Horizon Europe, Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs, and the European Innovation Council offer funding, training, and networking opportunities tailored to women in tech, science, and business. National programs such as Germany’s EXIST Women or France’s Women Business Angels Network also provide localized support. EU initiatives increasingly mandate gender balance and inclusivity, making it an ideal region for aspiring women entrepreneurs seeking funding and growth.
African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF)
The AWDF supports women-led organizations across Africa with grants aimed at social justice, economic empowerment, and community health. While the fund primarily supports NGOs and collectives, many women-led social enterprises have benefited from its funding. AWDF grants help women implement community-driven solutions, advocate for policy change, and build sustainable livelihoods. With a deep understanding of the local context, AWDF tailors its support to address the unique needs of African women entrepreneurs, especially in rural and marginalized areas.
SheEO Radical Generosity
SheEO is a global community of women who contribute to a fund that is loaned out to women-led ventures at zero percent interest. Though technically structured as loans, these funds are often used like grants and come with no equity requirement. Ventures are selected based on their potential to create a better world through sustainability, inclusion, or community impact. The program is active in Canada, the USA, Australia, and New Zealand, with plans to expand globally. Selected ventures receive funding, mentorship, and access to a supportive network of “activators.”
Local and Regional Grant Opportunities
In addition to international programs, women entrepreneurs should explore grants offered by regional governments, local nonprofits, and community development organizations. Cities like San Francisco, Chicago, and Austin regularly offer small business grants that prioritize women and minority-led ventures. Chambers of commerce, women’s business centers, and local development authorities often have seasonal funding rounds or competitions. Websites like Grants.gov in the US or Startup India in India provide searchable databases of relevant grant programs. Staying engaged in local ecosystems can uncover hidden funding opportunities tailored to your community.
Tips for Applying to Grant Programs
Securing a grant is competitive, but the following strategies can improve your chances: research eligibility thoroughly, tailor each application to the grant’s mission, clearly articulate your impact, provide accurate financials and growth plans, include testimonials or traction metrics, and submit early when possible. Use pitch decks, videos, and visual aids to tell a compelling story. Seek feedback from mentors or business coaches and consider partnering with grant writers for larger opportunities. Staying organized and persistent can make the difference between a missed opportunity and a transformative win.
Conclusion
Grant programs for women entrepreneurs are more abundant and accessible than ever before. These opportunities not only provide vital funding but also deliver mentorship, visibility, and a powerful sense of community. Whether you’re launching a tech startup, building a sustainable brand, or leading a grassroots initiative, there’s likely a grant that aligns with your mission and values. By tapping into these resources, women around the world are creating jobs, solving problems, and redefining leadership in the business world. Stay proactive, stay informed, and most importantly keep building. The future of entrepreneurship is female, and the support is out there to help you thrive.