WomensNet Startup Grant

The WomensNet Startup Grant is a monthly funding opportunity designed specifically to support women-owned startup businesses in the early stages of development. This grant initiative is administered by WomensNet, the organization behind the well-known Amber Grant program. Recognizing the unique challenges that startups face—especially those led by women—this program seeks to provide a financial lifeline to emerging entrepreneurs who are still in the idea phase or have only generated minimal revenue. Each month, WomensNet awards a $10,000 Startup Grant to a qualifying business that meets the program’s startup definition: having less than $10,000 in lifetime sales. Applicants do not need to submit a separate application for this grant. Instead, by applying for the monthly $10,000 Amber Grant, women entrepreneurs are automatically considered for the Startup Grant as well as a series of additional grant opportunities offered by WomensNet. In addition to the Startup Grant, applicants are also eligible for a $10,000 business-category-specific grant each month. These rotating categories range from STEM and Fashion to Food & Beverage and Mental Health, among others. Every application cycle culminates in the selection of three $25,000 Year-End Grant recipients, drawn from the pool of monthly winners across all categories. In total, an entrepreneur could receive up to $35,000 in funding through one initial application. The application process is streamlined and accessible, emphasizing authentic storytelling over corporate polish. WomensNet encourages applicants to speak from the heart about their business vision, goals, and personal motivation. The grant committee values passion and originality just as much as commercial viability. Applicants are judged holistically, and past winners come from diverse industries, ranging from scientific innovation to artisan baking. There is no cost to apply, and applications are reviewed monthly. There is no specific deadline day listed for submissions; instead, reviews occur on a monthly rolling basis. Awards are typically announced after the close of each monthly cycle. The program is open to women-owned businesses based in the United States that meet the startup criteria. No match is required, and the grant may be used for any legitimate business need that supports the applicant's entrepreneurial journey.