Top Business Grants for Women & Minorities in 2025
Access to funding is one of the biggest challenges for entrepreneurs, especially women and minority business owners. Fortunately, 2025 is bringing new opportunities through targeted grant programs aimed at fostering equity, innovation, and growth in underrepresented communities. Whether you’re launching a startup or scaling an existing venture, the following list highlights some of the top business grants available to women and minority entrepreneurs this year.
1. Amber Grant for Women
Offered by: WomensNet
Award Amount: $10,000 monthly + $25,000 annual grant
Deadline: Rolling monthly
The Amber Grant is one of the most accessible and well-known grants for women-owned businesses. Each month, one woman-owned business is awarded $10,000, and at the end of the year, one of the monthly winners receives an additional $25,000. The application process is simple, and it’s open to women entrepreneurs in a wide range of industries.
➡️ Apply Here
2. Cartier Women’s Initiative
Offered by: Cartier
Award Amount: Up to $100,000
Deadline: Typically Fall (check website for 2025 dates)
This global program supports women entrepreneurs leading social-impact businesses. Regional finalists receive funding, mentorship, and global exposure. The program is ideal for mission-driven businesses making a difference in their communities and beyond.
➡️ Learn More
3. NAACP Powershift Entrepreneur Grant
Offered by: NAACP & Hello Alice
Award Amount: $5,000–$25,000
Deadline: Varies by cycle
This grant targets Black and minority entrepreneurs with funding and access to business tools. In collaboration with partners like Hello Alice and the NAACP, Powershift helps empower small business owners with capital and educational resources.
➡️ Apply Here
4. Fearless Fund Grants
Offered by: Fearless Fund
Award Amount: Varies ($10,000 – $20,000+)
Deadline: Rolling, with specific grant cycles throughout the year
Designed for women of color entrepreneurs, the Fearless Fund offers various grants and investments to help businesses grow. Their partnerships with organizations like Mastercard and Goldman Sachs provide capital and networking opportunities.
➡️ Visit Site
5. Comcast RISE Investment Fund
Offered by: Comcast
Award Amount: $5,000–$10,000 + Marketing & Tech Resources
Deadline: Typically Spring and Fall Rounds
Comcast RISE supports small businesses owned by women and people of color with grants, business consulting, media exposure, and technology makeovers. It’s one of the few programs that offers both financial and in-kind support.
6. SoGal Black Founder Startup Grant
Offered by: SoGal Foundation
Award Amount: $10,000 or $5,000
Deadline: Rolling
This grant is for Black women and nonbinary entrepreneurs across the U.S. SoGal and its partners are committed to bridging the funding gap by supporting early-stage businesses led by underrepresented founders.
➡️ Apply Here
7. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Grants
Offered by: U.S. Government (SBA & affiliates)
Award Amount: Varies
Deadline: Ongoing, depending on the program
While most SBA funding comes in the form of loans, the agency also offers grants through its SBIR/STTR programs and Community Navigator Pilot Program. These grants are particularly beneficial for tech startups and underserved communities.
➡️ Visit SBA
8. Black Ambition Prize
Offered by: Black Ambition (Founded by Pharrell Williams)
Award Amount: Up to $1,000,000
Deadline: Typically Spring
Targeted at Black and Latinx entrepreneurs in tech, consumer products, healthcare, and media, the Black Ambition Prize provides massive funding and mentorship opportunities. It’s one of the most prestigious awards for minority-led startups.
➡️ Learn More
9. IFundWomen Grants
Offered by: IFundWomen
Award Amount: Varies
Deadline: Rolling, by partnership cycle
IFundWomen offers a centralized grant hub for women entrepreneurs. Once you fill out a universal application, you’re automatically matched with eligible grants from partners like Visa, Adidas, and American Express.
➡️ Sign Up
10. Backstage Capital Grants
Offered by: Backstage Capital
Award Amount: Varies
Deadline: Not always open – check for updates
Founded by Arlan Hamilton, Backstage Capital focuses on investing in underestimated founders – women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. When available, their grant programs offer capital and accelerator-style support.
➡️ Visit Site
Pro Tips for Grant Applications:
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Tailor each application: Customize your responses to align with the mission of the grant.
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Tell your story: Highlight your background, challenges, and vision.
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Stay organized: Keep a calendar of upcoming deadlines.
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Follow up: Stay in touch with organizations after applying.
Final Thoughts
Grants are a powerful way to get non-dilutive funding and elevate your business. With increased emphasis on diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship, 2025 is a great year to explore funding opportunities designed specifically for women and minority founders. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale, these programs can provide the boost you need to succeed.
