Unlocking Funding: Major grants for Minority and Women-Owned Businesses
Table of Contents
- Unlocking Funding: Major grants for Minority and Women-Owned Businesses
- Unlocking Growth: Major Grants for Black and Women-Owned Businesses
- Unlocking Growth: Funding Opportunities for Minority and Women-Owned Businesses
Non-dilutive grant funding is crucial for the 9.7 million minority-owned and 13 million women-owned businesses in the U.S., many of whom face limited access to traditional investment avenues like angel investors and venture capital. These grants ofen serve as the equivalent of seed and growth capital, propelling these enterprises forward.
However, securing these grants presents meaningful hurdles. Khadijah Robinson, General Partner of Fictive Ventures, highlights the challenges: accessing grants is a frustrating experience for many entrepreneurs. Tight submission deadlines, complex eligibility criteria and uncertainty around renewals due to shifting corporate priorities, especially around Diversity, Equity and inclusion, make the grant game a bit like playing whack-a-mole.
The situation is further elaborate by the chilling effect
of anti-DEI lawsuits on diversity-focused grant-making organizations, as noted by Robinson. While triumphant grant applications can yield funding, the amounts received are frequently enough modest, ranging from $500 to $25,000 after taxes.
Advice from Successful Grant Recipients
Dawn Myers, founder and CEO of Richualist, a hair care products company, has secured over $1 million in venture capital and more than $175,000 in grants from organizations including Proctor & Gamble, New Voices Fund, and Sephora. She offers invaluable insight:
“Getting grants is a game of numbers, process, and continual improvement. You will only get a fraction of the grants you apply for, so you need a system to capture opportunities at volume. Sign up for Google alerts, list servs, newsletters, and influencers that frequently advertise opportunities. Develop a tracker to stay on top of those opportunities and their due dates. Next, create a language bank where you store different versions of responses for frequently asked questions.Every time you win or lose a grant, review the language you used.Over time, you will start to get an intuition around what works and what doesn’t. Constantly update and refresh your language to get better and more responsive to the questions posed. Getting grants is just like any other function in your company – you need systems and processes to measure success.” Dawn Myers, CEO of Richualist
Monica Williams, Co-Founder and CEO of RedDrop, a company providing affordable period products for tween girls, secured approximately $1.2 million in funding, including $1 million from Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition Prize. She advises:
“For many founders, access to capital is the biggest barrier to growth—and as a Black woman entrepreneur, that challenge is even greater. For founders looking to win grants,my biggest advice is to treat grant applications like an investor pitch—tell a compelling story about your business,highlight your impact,and clearly articulate how the funding will help you scale. Do your research to find grants aligned with your industry and mission, and don’t be afraid to apply for multiple opportunities. It’s also critical to apply to many grants simultaneously. Not only does this increase your chances of securing funding, but the momentum of winning grants compounds—funders, investors, and the media love to bet on winners. The visibility that comes with grant wins can lead to more opportunities,partnerships,and future investment. Each win builds credibility, attracts attention, and positions your company as one to watch. Additionally, build relationships with grant organizations before you apply—engage with their programs, attend networking events, and make sure they know your name. And most importantly, keep refining your pitch—winning is frequently enough about persistence, learning from past applications, and continuously improving your approach.” Monica Williams, CEO of RedDrop
Dr. Elizabeth Ofili, a cardiologist and founder and CEO of Health360x, a clinical research platform, received approximately $2.2 million in SBIR grant funding from the National institutes of Health. she cautions:
“Applying for and receiving government grants can be a very drawn-out process – measured in years, and not weeks or months. Your business cannot survive if it is indeed reliant on receiving SBIR funding to continue operating. And the reality is, SBIR is not for everyone – especially those with short-term funding needs. But,the payoff can be massive.In my case,I was able to receive over $2 million in funding.My recommendation is to work closely with program officers who will guide you through each phase of the process. I worked with a technology transfer office at Morehouse School of medicine, to get training and support from advisors who told me, ‘this is what a good SBIR looks like’.” Dr. Elizabeth Ofili, CEO of Health360x
15 Grants Offering $50,000 – $2 million in Funding
1. SBIR / STTR Government Grants – Amount: up to $2 million; Application Window: Various
The Small Business Innovation research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs offer significant funding opportunities across 11 federal agencies. The Department of Defense, Department of Health and Human Services, and National Science foundation are among the most active participants. Further research into specific agency priorities is recommended.
2. CÎROC’s Blue Dot Creative Residency – Amount: up to $500,000; Application Window: closes February 24, 2025
This program, a collaboration between CÎROC and MACRO, supports creatives in fashion, art, music, and entertainment. It aims to provide funding and resources for the growth and distribution of passion projects.
Ten Lucrative Startup grants to Apply For in 2025
Entrepreneurs and startups seeking funding should mark their calendars. ten significant grant programs are opening their application windows in 2025, offering a combined potential of millions in non-dilutive funding and invaluable resources. These opportunities range from supporting clean-tech innovations to empowering social entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth in specific communities.
Caltech’s Rocket Fund
Caltech’s Rocket fund (CRF) is a member-supported granting pool assisting innovators in commercializing their technologies. CRF focuses on early commercial prototype growth, notably supporting clean-tech and sustainability startups in California. Grants range from $25,000 to $100,000 in non-dilutive funding. The program also offers mentoring, educational resources, introductions to experts, legal advice, and access to potential investors and accelerator programs. Since 2015, CRF has awarded $1.875 million in grants. The application window is October 18 – March 3, 2025.
Eligibility requires a California presence, legal US operation with a US corporate bank account, and a focus on diversity and inclusion. Additional criteria are available online.
Catalyst CTIA Wireless Foundation
The CTIA Wireless Foundation seeks early-stage social entrepreneurs with mobile-first solutions addressing challenges in American communities. Up to six applicants will receive unrestricted grant support, with a top award of $100,000, and non-financial benefits. The program emphasizes the transformative potential of mobile solutions powered by 5G and other technologies.
Unlocking Growth: Major Grants for Black and Women-Owned Businesses
The quest for funding is a constant challenge for entrepreneurs, particularly for those from underrepresented groups. Fortunately, several organizations are actively working to level the playing field, offering considerable financial support and mentorship. This article highlights key grant programs with significant funding potential for black-owned and women-owned businesses, providing crucial details on eligibility and application deadlines.
Significant Funding Opportunities
Catalyst Grant Program
Catalyst, a program focused on leading-edge wireless technologies, has awarded over $1 million since 2020. The program supports US-based nonprofits or social-impact companies with mobile-first solutions beyond the ideation stage,possessing a proof of concept and using wireless technology to solve community issues. Applications from people of color, women, and veterans are encouraged. The application deadline is March 5, 2025.
Arch Grants Startup Competition
Arch grants, a St. Louis-based nonprofit, awards innovative, scalable, job-creating startups with $75,000 non-dilutive grants (plus an additional $25,000 for companies relocating to St. Louis). In return, companies must headquarter their business in St. Louis for at least one year. The competition involves evaluation by over 400 industry experts. Arch Grants aims to improve St. Louis’s economic landscape. Since 2012, it has awarded $18.5 million to 270+ companies, with over 200 still active, and 84% maintaining operations in St.Louis. The application window is February 19 – March 31, 2025. Eligibility includes being an idea-stage to pre-Series A company with an innovative, scalable business model and technology-enabled solutions.Diverse founder teams committed to St. Louis’s growth are preferred. A significant operational presence in St. Louis for at least one year is mandatory for at least one founding team member and 51% of the full-time founding team or full-time staff. Additional participation requirements exist.
Cartier Women’s Initiative
The Cartier women’s Initiative (CWI), a global grant program founded in 2006, awards grants ranging from $30,000 to $100,000. Awards are categorized into Regional Awards (three North American fellows), Science & Technology Pioneer Award (three fellows), and Diversity, Equity & inclusion Award (three fellows). CWI also offers a one-year fellowship including a 3-day program with Insead Business School and lifetime access to the CWI community. Since its inception,CWI has awarded $12.22 million to 330 entrepreneurs across 66 countries. The application window is April 18 – June 24, 2025. Eligibility requires a women-run or women-owned early-stage business (1-6 years of operation) with a demonstrable social and/or environmental impact.
Ulta’s MUSE Accelerator
Ulta’s MUSE Accelerator,a 10-week program powered by the Fifteen Percent Pledge,awards eight Black,Indigenous,and People of Color (BIPOC) brands $50,000,along with resources and mentorship. As of 2022, MUSE has awarded $1,240,000. The application window is typically open in june. Eligibility requires applicants to be at least 18 years old, a U.S. or Canadian citizen, and currently residing in the U.S. or Canada.
Amika’s “Rooted in Growth” Startup Grant
Amika’s “Rooted in Growth” program supports emerging professional hair brand founders. Four brands receive $50,000 and a four-month mentorship program. Since 2023, the program has awarded $400,000. The application window typically opens in July. Eligibility includes being a US-based hair and hair care company with a clearly articulated Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and demonstrated sales. Founders need a business plan or draft, less than $2 million in revenue, no funding beyond Series A, and a commitment to program participation.
Beyond Open Small Business Grant Program
Beyond Open supports diverse-owned small businesses in Charlotte’s Corridors of Possibility. Grants range from $10,000 to $150,000. Since 2022, $16.3 million has been awarded to 402 businesses. The application window typically opens in August. Eligibility requires a physical location within designated Corridors of Opportunity, at least one year of operation, for-profit status, annual revenue between $30,000 and $5 million, fewer than 200 employees, and additional criteria available online.
Fifteen Percent Pledge Achievement Award
Details regarding the Fifteen Percent Pledge Achievement Award amount and application window was not provided.
Unlocking Growth: Funding Opportunities for Minority and Women-Owned Businesses
Minority and women-owned businesses are vital to innovation, yet securing funding remains a significant hurdle. Non-dilutive grants offer a crucial pathway to success, leveling the playing field and providing much-needed capital.
“Minority and women-owned businesses are the unsung heroes of innovation, yet they face significant hurdles in accessing funding. Did you know that non-dilutive grants play a pivotal role in leveling the playing field for these businesses?” an expert noted.
These businesses frequently enough encounter limited access to traditional funding sources like angel investors and venture capital. Systemic challenges, including restricted access to financial networks and inherent biases in funding decisions, further complicate the situation. Non-dilutive grants, provided by government and private organizations, become critical lifelines.These grants offer seed and growth capital without equity requirements, enabling businesses to scale operations while retaining ownership. The SBIR/STTR Government Grants, for example, can provide up to $2 million, particularly beneficial for early-stage innovation in sectors like health and technology.
Successful grant recipients offer valuable insights. dawn Myers of Richualist emphasizes treating grant applications like investor pitches, focusing on storytelling and impact.She suggests a robust system for tracking opportunities and refining applications based on past experiences. Monica Williams of RedDrop highlights the power of compounding wins, where each successful grant application attracts further opportunities and investments. Building relationships with grant organizations and refining pitches over time are also crucial. Persistence and a strategic approach considerably increase success rates.
Several lucrative grant opportunities exist in 2025:
- Caltech’s Rocket Fund: offers grants up to $100,000 to clean-tech and sustainability startups in California,along with mentorship and educational resources.
- Arch Grants Startup competition: Provides $75,000 grants to businesses relocating to or headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, focusing on regional economic development.
- Cartier Women’s Initiative: A global grant program offering between $30,000 and $100,000 to early-stage women-run businesses with a social or environmental impact.
- Ulta’s MUSE Accelerator: Targets Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) brands with $50,000 grants and mentorship.
These programs offer not only financial support but also access to valuable networks and resources crucial for business growth.
Entrepreneurs can leverage platforms like USBusinessGrants.org, Ladies Who Launch, and IFundWomen to streamline grant searches and access tailored resources. AI-assisted tools can enhance application quality, creating compelling proposals. Networking and building relationships within grant organizations are also vital. Active participation in relevant programs and events increases visibility and improves the chances of grant approval. Entrepreneurs should utilize platforms like USBusinessGrants.org, ladies Who Launch, and IFundWomen. These platforms streamline the search for grants and offer tailored resources for women and minority owners.
an expert advised.
Strategic grant application approaches significantly impact business growth. Sharing experiences and resources can foster a supportive community and help others navigate the funding landscape.
title: Navigating the Funding Frontier: Insider Insights on Non-dilutive Grants for Minority and Women-Owned Businesses
Introduction:
Have you ever wondered what keeps minority and women-owned businesses thriving amidst funding challenges? Non-dilutive grants are crucial lifelines, acting as catalysts for innovation and growth. These funding opportunities offer a level playing field while preserving ownership and igniting enterprise potential.
In this exclusive interview,we delve deep into the world of non-dilutive grants with Dr. Alexandra Grant, a renowned expert and advocate for minority and women-owned enterprises.
Interview Begins Here
Senior Editor, World-Today-News: Dr. Grant, it’s fascinating how non-dilutive grants can empower minority and women-owned businesses. Could you explain why these grants are increasingly viewed as essential for these entrepreneurs?
Dr.Alexandra grant: Absolutely, non-dilutive grants are pivotal because they enable minority and women-owned businesses to access capital without sacrificing equity. This is crucial given that many customary funding pathways, like venture capital or angel investments, frequently enough remain out of reach due to systemic barriers such as restricted financial networks and inherent biases. Grants provide seed and growth capital, allowing these businesses to innovate, expand, and sustain operations while owning a larger stake. Moreover, programs like the SBIR/STTR Government Grants offer up to $2 million for early-stage innovations, creating profound impacts in sectors like health and technology.
Editor: What challenges do these entrepreneurs commonly face when pursuing non-dilutive grants, and how can they overcome them?
Dr. Grant: Entrepreneurs often find the grant application process daunting due to tight deadlines, complex criteria, and shifting priorities especially around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). To overcome these challenges, it’s vital to adopt a systematic approach.Successful grant recipients like Dawn Myers and Monica Williams highlight the importance of perseverance and strategic refinements. Treat grant applications like investor pitches—tell a compelling story and articulate the impact clearly. Employ robust systems to track opportunities and continually refine applications based on feedback. Remember, consistency and strategic engagement with grant organizations can significantly enhance success rates.
Editor: Could you share some practical steps or resources that minority and women-owned businesses can utilize to navigate the grant application process effectively?
Dr. Grant: Certainly! Here are some actionable steps:
- Utilize Grant Platforms: Websites like USBusinessGrants.org, Ladies Who Launch, and IFundWomen can streamline your search for relevant grants, offering tailored resources.
- Organize Your Applications: Develop a tracker to capture and manage grant opportunities, facilitating timely submissions.
- Refine Your Pitch: treat grant applications like complex investor presentations. Continually refine your language and approach based on your successes and setbacks.
- Build Relationships: Engage with grant organizations before you apply. Attend networking events, participate in relevant programs, and familiarize them with your business’s mission and impact.
- Leverage AI Tools: Use AI-assisted tools to polish your applications, making them more likely to capture the attention of grant reviewers.
By adopting these strategies, businesses can improve their chances of securing grant funding.
Editor: what might the future hold for non-dilutive grants and minority-owned enterprises, given the evolving landscape of diversity and inclusion?
Dr. Grant: The future is promising, yet contingent on deliberate actions towards equitable funding. Increasing awareness around DEI challenges is prompting both private and public sectors to rethink grant allocations. We’re likely to see more targeted funding initiatives focused on diverse entrepreneurs, backed by supportive ecosystems that go beyond mere financial assistance. As societal emphasis on diversity and inclusion strengthens, non-dilutive grants will play an even more pivotal role in catalyzing innovative solutions from minority and women-owned businesses.
Interview Ends Here
Conclusion:
As we’ve explored, non-dilutive grants hold enormous potential for minority and women-owned businesses, offering a gateway to sustainable growth and innovation. By strategically navigating the under-defined yet promising grant universe, these businesses can turn challenges into stepping stones for broader economic contributions.
Dr. Alexandra Grant’s insights emphasize the importance of perseverance, strategic planning, and robust engagement with funding opportunities. Join us in the comments to share your thoughts on non-dilutive grants or your own experiences. Let’s foster dialog and support that can help more entrepreneurs realize their dreams.