Women entrepreneurs are starting businesses at a faster rate than eveView Postr before in the United States. From tech startups to small boutiques, women are building successful companies in every industry. But running a business isn’t easy — and having the right support can make all the difference.
Thankfully, there are many helpful resources specifically designed to support women business owners at every stage of their journey.
Government Programs for Women Entrepreneurs
Several government-backed programs offer funding, training, and mentorship to help women launch and grow their businesses.
Top resources include:
- SBA Office of Women’s Business Ownership (OWBO): Offers training, counseling, and access to capital through local Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) across the country.
- Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans: While not exclusive to women, SBA loans are a popular funding option. Many local lenders also focus on women-owned businesses.
- 8(a) Business Development Program: Helps minority and women-owned small businesses win government contracts through set-asides.
These programs are a great starting point for learning about grants, networking, and business planning.
Women’s Business Centers (WBCs)
There are over 100 WBCs across the U.S. offering free or low-cost support for women entrepreneurs. They provide:
- One-on-one business counseling
- Help with writing business plans
- Guidance on applying for loans or grants
- Workshops on marketing, finance, and operations
WBCs are often locally run and tailored to the needs of women in your community. You can find one near you through the SBA’s website.
Grants and Funding for Women-Owned Businesses
While most funding comes in the form of loans or investment, there are some grants specifically for women-owned businesses.
Examples include:
- Amber Grant Foundation: Awards monthly grants to women-owned businesses, with an annual $25,000 award.
- Cartier Women’s Initiative: International program that funds and mentors women-led businesses with a social impact.
- Tory Burch Foundation Fellows Program: Offers education, grants, and networking for early-stage women entrepreneurs.
- IFundWomen: A platform that offers grants, coaching, and crowdfunding tools for women entrepreneurs.
Keep in mind, grant programs are competitive — but they’re worth applying for if your business aligns with their goals.
Online Learning and Business Training
Learning new skills is key to running a successful business. Many free and low-cost programs exist to help women gain knowledge in areas like marketing, finance, and leadership.
Some trusted options:
- Coursera & edX: Offer business courses from top universities (many free).
- SCORE: A nonprofit that provides mentoring and free workshops — great for learning the basics of running a small business.
- SBA Learning Center: Free online courses focused on small business topics.
Many of these platforms are flexible, so you can learn at your own pace.
Networking Groups and Communities
Networking is one of the most powerful tools for business growth. Connecting with other women entrepreneurs can open doors to partnerships, mentorship, and new customers.
Top groups include:
- NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners): Offers networking events, advocacy, and support for women-led companies.
- Ellevate Network: A professional women’s network with online and in-person events.
- Lean In Circles: Based on Sheryl Sandberg’s movement, these peer support groups help women grow their leadership skills.
- Facebook Groups & LinkedIn Communities: Thousands of online groups exist for women entrepreneurs by industry or interest.
Joining a network helps you learn from others and feel less alone in your journey.
Certifications for Women-Owned Businesses
Getting certified as a woman-owned business can help you access corporate contracts and government opportunities.
The main certifications include:
- WOSB (Women-Owned Small Business): Offered by the SBA to help women-owned businesses compete for federal contracts.
- WBENC Certification: Recognized by many corporations that want to do business with diverse suppliers.
- State/Local Certifications: Many states and cities offer their own certification programs.
Certification can open up big opportunities, especially in industries like construction, tech, and professional services.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your business, there are many resources out there designed to support women entrepreneurs. From government programs and grants to online training and strong community networks, these tools can help you grow faster and smarter.
Being a woman in business is no longer rare — it’s powerful, and with the right support, your success is well within reach.
