Single mom’s reality is not same as other women because they have to struggle with life and their children. When they want to start a business or any new endeavour for more economic stability, freedom and job creation, then it is welcome from the point of economy in the United States of America. Part of this, single mom may start a business and it may require single mom grants to start a business and grow business.
There are so many platforms like government, non-profit and other charitable organization that offer single mom grants to start a business. Here in this article, we will walk through a comprehensive study on how single moms can get grants and other important issues.
23 Places To Get Single Mom Grants To Start A Business
Here are 23 places to get single mom grants and hopefully this can help you start a business or help become entrepreneurs in this time.
1. Federal grants (grants.gov)
When it comes to any grants, the first start should be the government platform and it is all about grants.gov. this is a government website to ensure federal grants that include meeting the need of business cum companies.
When you are single mom and need funding to start your business, you are welcome to this endeavour. Then you have options as small business administration to start your business and go ahead with grants.gov. so, you need to visit this government website and search related grants in line with your new business.
2. InnovateHER challenge
The InnovateHER Challenge aims to support innovative products or services related business. This initiative encourages female entrepreneurs, including single mom, to present creative business ideas addressing critical challenges.
The grant amounts and availability might have varied based on the competition’s structure, with finalists having the opportunity to win cash prizes. But commonly it comes as up to $40,000 as free money not to be paid.
Application starts August and December in each year and it comes by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). In this case, you need to locate SBA website with this program and go for application process.
3. Amber Grant
Amber is the organization and it is one of the great platforms to fund single moms to start business. In 1998, WomensNet founded this organization and then it has been giving away grants for single moms. The organization awards at least $35,000 grant money for every month for the field of marketing, different business categories. The single moms can start through online application by visiting the website of Amber grants for women.
4. Women’s Business Centres
Women’s Business Centres (WBCs) is sponsored by the Small Business Administration (SBA), offer support, resources, and training to women entrepreneurs, including single moms, to start and grow their businesses.
WBCs aim to empower women by providing assistance in various aspects of business development. Grant amounts might vary based on the specific centre or program, and the aim primarily revolves around offering mentorship, training, access to capital, and business counselling.
Single moms can engage with their local WBCs, attend workshops, access resources, and benefit from counselling services tailored to assist them in navigating the entrepreneurial landscape and potentially securing funding or resources for their business ventures.
5. The Girlboss Foundation Grant
The Girlboss Foundation Grant offers financial support of up to $15,000 to single mom entrepreneurs pursuing their business dreams. This grant is tailored to empower women with innovative and creative business ideas, providing them with a crucial stepping stone toward success.
The application process typically involves submitting a comprehensive business plan, a description of the proposed project or business, details on how the grant would be utilized, and a personal statement showcasing the applicant’s vision and passion for their entrepreneurial endeavour.
Recipients not only receive funding but also benefit from mentorship and visibility within the Girlboss community, creating a supportive network to help them thrive in their entrepreneurial journey.
6. Eileen Fisher Women Owned Business Grant
The Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant is a grant program that offers up to $100,000 to single mom entrepreneurs who are dedicated to environmental and social change. The aim of the grant is to support women-owned businesses that prioritize sustainability, innovation, and social consciousness across various industries.
To apply for this grant, your business should be a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization registered with IRS. Additionally, your business is also focused on direct services to its customers. The program is temporarily suspended but you can apply online when it is going to be active again.
7. FedEx Small Business Grant
The FedEx Small Business Grant is a grant program that awards $5,000 to U.S.-based small businesses to help them grow and enhance their operations. The single mom may have the enough fund to start a business. The grant is open to businesses that have been in operation for more than one year, have less than 50 employees, and have less than $5 million in annual sales revenue.
To apply for the grant, businesses must submit an online application form, including a business plan, financial statements, and a letter of support.
8. National Association for the Self-Employed Growth Grants
The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants offers financial support to single mothers aspiring to start their own businesses. These grants vary in amount, typically ranging from $4,000 to $10,000, and aim to facilitate the growth and development of entrepreneurial ventures.
When you as single mom want to start business in the field of advertising and marketing, expanding facilities, hiring employees, can go with this grant program. If you want to apply for this grant, firstly you should be a member of NASE. This membership will direct you apply in the right way for getting grants.
9. IdeaCafe Grant
The IdeaCafe Grant is a resourceful opportunity for single mothers venturing into entrepreneurship, offering a $1,000 grant to aid in launching or growing their businesses. The primary goal of this grant is to provide financial assistance and support to single moms with innovative business ideas across diverse industries.
To apply, individuals need to submit a business plan detailing their concept, the potential impact of their business, and how the grant money will be utilized. The application process typically involves filling out an online form and articulating a compelling vision for the proposed business, emphasizing its uniqueness and feasibility.
10. Cartier Womans Initiative Award
The Cartier Women’s Initiative Award is a prestigious program that supports women entrepreneurs worldwide, offering grants of $30,000 to $100,000 to assist in developing and scaling their businesses.
The aim of this grant is to foster innovation and empower women, including single mothers, who lead early-stage, for-profit businesses driving social impact and sustainability.
To apply, you need to download the application for the Cartier Women’s Initiative Regional awards online. there is eligibility criteria and it is all about single mom owned or women run business that plays a key role in society.
11. GrantsforWomen.org
GrantsforWomen.org is an online entity that helps single mom and offers vital financial support and resource. While specific grant amounts can vary, they typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, aimed at empowering and enabling single moms to realize their entrepreneurial ambitions.
The primary objective of these grants is to alleviate financial barriers and provide a stepping stone for women, supporting innovative business ideas that have the potential for growth and sustainability.
The application process may vary from one program to another but visiting grantsforwomen.org is the main resource to go. There are application instruction and you have to follow for getting grants for single mom.
12. The Halstead Grant
The Halstead Grant is a prestigious annual award specifically tailored to emerging jewellery artists, providing a grant package valued at over $10,000 to support the launch of their jewellery businesses.
The grant aims to equip recipients with financial assistance, including cash, jewellery supplies, and business development guidance.
When you want to apply for this grant, you need to visit the Halstead Grant online and download application form. In the application form, you have to answer some questions and then submit with your design portfolio within the stipulated time.
13. Open Meadows Foundation
The Open Meadows Foundation provides grants to support projects or starting business led by women especially single mom. It aims for social change and community empowerment by empowering single mom. These grants, which range from $2,000 to $10,000, aim to fund innovative and inclusive projects that uplift the way of living of single mom.
The application process involves submitting a detailed proposal outlining the project’s goals, impact on the community, budget allocation, and the ways in which it aligns with Open Meadows’ values of diversity and inclusivity. Single mothers with projects geared towards social change and community improvement are encouraged to apply for these grants.
14. SBIR Grants
Single mothers can apply for SBIR grants if they own and operate a small business that meets the eligibility requirements. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program is a competitive federal grant program that provides funding for small businesses to conduct research and development (R&D) that has the potential to commercialize into products or services.
The program is divided into three phases:
- Phase I: Grants of up to $250,000 to assess the feasibility of a project.
- Phase II: Grants of up to $2 million to develop and test a prototype or product.
- Phase III: Commercialization of a successful Phase II project.
To be eligible for an SBIR grant, a business must be a for-profit small business. Additionally, the business needs to be owned and operated by U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Along with, it should be primarily engaged in the development of new products or services
Single mothers who are interested in applying for an SBIR grant should first check the eligibility requirements and make sure their business meets all of the qualifications. They should then start the application process early, as the program is very competitive.
15. MBDA
The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) supports minority-owned businesses, including those led by single mothers, by providing resources and assistance to foster growth and competitiveness. While the MBDA does not specifically offer grants exclusively for single mothers, it offers various programs and services tailored to support minority entrepreneurs.
These programs aim to enhance access to capital, contracts, market opportunities, and business development services. To benefit from MBDA resources, single mothers can engage with their local MBDA Business Centre or visit the agency’s website to access information, workshops, and networking events designed to assist in starting and growing their businesses.
16. SBA Small Business Administration
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers various resources and support for small business owners, including single mothers, but typically does not provide direct grants for starting a business. Instead, the SBA administers loan programs, offers counselling, training, and access to federal contracting opportunities.
However, they do facilitate grants through other federal agencies for specific industries, initiatives, or research projects. Single mothers interested in SBA assistance can access their programs, guidance, and loan options through local SBA offices or the SBA website, which offers a wealth of information on starting, managing, and growing a small business, as well as resources for funding opportunities available through their network of partners and programs.
17. SoGal Startup grant
The SoGal Startup Grant is a supportive avenue for diverse entrepreneurs, including single mothers, seeking to launch their businesses in the USA. This grant fosters inclusivity and aims to empower underrepresented founders.
It offers a funding amount of up to $10,000 to early-stage start-ups demonstrating innovation, scalability, and a commitment to driving positive change.
For applying this grant, you must identify as a black woman or nonbinary entrepreneur. More importantly, you should own a business that is legally registered and can demonstrate plan or share your business idea.
18. Tory Burch Foundation Grant
The Tory Burch Foundation Grant is a valuable resource for single mothers seeking to kickstart their entrepreneurial endeavours in the United States. This grant program aims to empower women entrepreneurs by offering financial assistance, mentorship, and resources to support business growth.
Grant amounts and specific offerings may vary, but the primary aim is to provide a platform for women to establish and expand their businesses. Most specially $5000 business education grants can be awesome deal to go for single mom.
Every year 50 women entrepreneurs are selected for becoming fellows and you must be single mom to go with application process. Then you should fill out application and submit it to the online via the foundation’s website.
19. Small business Innovation research and small business technology transfer program
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs aim to foster innovation and technological advancement in the United States. These federal initiatives don’t have a specific target for single mothers, but they offer grants and contracts to small businesses, including those led by single moms, to conduct research and development with commercial potential.
Grant amounts vary by agency, and the primary aim is to support small businesses in developing innovative technologies that have the potential for commercialization. The application process involves multiple phases, typically starting with proposal submission, followed by a rigorous review and selection process for funding.
Single mothers owning small businesses can apply for these grants through the respective agencies’ open solicitations and follow their guidelines for application submission.
20. Program for investors in Micro entrepreneurs
The Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) is a federal grant initiative designed to support organizations that provide assistance to low-income entrepreneurs, including single mothers, in establishing or expanding their small businesses.
PRIME grants aim to foster economic growth by offering funding to organizations that offer training, technical assistance, access to capital, and other resources for microentrepreneurs. Grant amounts can vary, and the primary goal is to empower underserved individuals, such as single mothers, to create sustainable businesses.
The application process typically involves submitting a detailed proposal outlining the organization’s capacity to assist microentrepreneurs, the proposed program design, and the expected impact on the targeted community. Interested organizations can apply for PRIME grants through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s grant opportunities and adhere to their application guidelines.
21. The American Express Open Grants for single moms
While American Express Open Grants specifically targets women entrepreneurs, single mothers can certainly apply and benefit from the program’s support. The grant awards up to $100,000 to women-owned businesses that are making a positive impact in their communities.
The funds can be used for various purposes, such as marketing, hiring, or expanding operations. To be eligible, the business must be woman-owned, have been in operation for at least three years, and generate at least $100,000 in annual revenue. Additionally, the business owner must be a current American Express OPEN Cardmember.
The application process involves submitting a detailed business plan outlining the company’s mission, how the grant funds will be utilized to advance the business, and a comprehensive overview of the social and environmental impact of the proposed project or business.
22. The Grow with Google Small Business Fund
The Grow with Google Small Business Fund is a grant program that has provided over $2 billion in loans and grants to over 25,000 small businesses in the United States. The program is open to all small businesses, including those owned by single moms.
The grant amount is up to $10,000 and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as marketing, advertising, and hiring. The application process is online and involves submitting a business plan, financial statements, and a letter of support.
23. The Microsoft Imagine Cup
The Microsoft Imagine Cup is a global student technology competition encouraging innovation and problem-solving using technology. While not specifically targeted at single moms, this competition provides a platform for students, including single mothers pursuing education, to showcase their tech-driven entrepreneurial ideas.
Winners of the Imagine Cup may receive cash prizes, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources to further develop their projects into viable business ventures. The application process typically involves registering as a student team, submitting project proposals leveraging technology for societal impact or business innovation, and competing at regional and global levels.
Single mothers enrolled as students with innovative tech ideas are encouraged to participate in the Imagine Cup for a chance to win resources and support for their entrepreneurial journey.
Types Of Grants For Single Mom To Start Business
Single Mom can avail for various grants to start a business. These grants ensure financial assistance as free money to help single moms overcome the challenges of entrepreneurship and achieve their business goals. Here are some of the most common types of grants for single moms:
- Government Grants: The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers a variety of grants for small businesses, including those owned by single moms. These grants typically have competitive application processes, but they can provide significant financial support to businesses that are selected.
- Non-Profit Grants: Many non-profit organizations offer grants to support small businesses, including those owned by single moms. These grants may have specific eligibility criteria, such as focusing on a particular industry or supporting businesses in underserved communities.
- Private Foundation Grants: Private foundations provide grants to support a variety of causes, including entrepreneurship and small business development. These grants may have specific eligibility criteria, such as supporting businesses that are addressing social or environmental issues.
- Community-Based Grants: Local community organizations and foundations may offer grants to support small businesses in their communities. These grants may have specific eligibility criteria, such as requiring the business to be located in the community or serve the community’s residents.
- Crowdfunding Grants: Some crowdfunding platforms offer grants to businesses that raise a certain amount of money through their crowdfunding campaign. These grants can provide additional financial support to businesses that have already demonstrated a level of interest and support from potential customers.
When searching for grants, it is important to carefully review the eligibility criteria for each program to ensure that your business meets the requirements. It is also helpful to start the application process early, as many grant programs have competitive deadlines.
How Can A Single Mother Start A Business
Starting a business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavour, but it also requires careful planning and execution. For single mom, the challenges of balancing work and family life can be especially daunting. However, with the right support and resources, single mothers can successfully launch and run their own businesses.
Here are some tips for single moms who are considering starting a business:
- Choose a business idea that is a good fit for your skills and interests. Consider your passions, talents, and experience when brainstorming business ideas. It’s also important to choose a business that you are passionate about, as this will help you stay motivated during the tough times.
- Do your research and develop a solid business plan. Once you have a business idea, it’s important to do your research to make sure there is a market for your product or service. You should also develop a detailed business plan that outlines your business goals, strategies, and financial projections.
- Secure funding. Starting a business requires capital, so you will need to determine how you will finance your venture. There are a number of options available, including personal savings, loans, grants, and crowdfunding.
- Build a strong support network. Surround yourself with people who can support you emotionally and professionally as you start your business. This could include family, friends, mentors, and business advisors.
- Be prepared for long hours and hard work. Starting a business is not a get-rich-quick scheme. It will take hard work, dedication, and perseverance to succeed.
- Take advantage of resources for single mothers. There are a number of resources available to help single mothers start and run businesses. These resources include government programs, non-profit organizations, and online communities.
Tips For Starting Business For Single Mom After Getting The Grants
Congratulations on receiving a grant to start your business! This is a significant milestone, and you should be proud of your accomplishment. Here are some tips for single moms to help them succeed in their businesses after receiving a grant:
- Seek guidance and mentorship: Utilize the grant funds to access mentorship opportunities or hire a business coach. Their expertise can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the challenges of running a business as a single mom.
- Invest in professional development: Dedicate a portion of the grant funds to attend workshops, seminars, or online courses related to your industry or business skills. Continuous learning can enhance your ability to manage and grow your business.
- Optimize your time management: As a single mom, balancing work and family life can be demanding. Develop effective time management strategies to prioritize tasks, delegate when possible, and create a schedule that accommodates both your business and personal commitments.
- Establish a strong financial foundation: Use the grant funds wisely to set up a solid financial system for your business. This includes creating a budget, tracking expenses, and managing cash flow effectively.
- Develop a marketing plan: Utilize the grant funds to implement a strategic marketing plan that reaches your target audience and promotes your business effectively. Consider online marketing, social media engagement, and networking opportunities.
- Prioritize self-care and well-being: As a single mom and business owner, self-care is crucial. Schedule time for rest, relaxation, and activities that bring you joy. Your well-being directly impacts your ability to manage your business effectively.
- Build a supportive network: Connect with other single mom entrepreneurs, business owners, or mentors who can provide encouragement, advice, and support. Building a supportive network can help you navigate challenges and celebrate successes.
- Seek funding diversification: While the grant is a valuable resource, explore additional financing options, such as loans, lines of credit, or crowdfunding, to support your business’s ongoing growth and expansion.
- Embrace technology: Utilize technology tools and resources to streamline your business operations, improve efficiency, and enhance customer service. Explore cloud-based solutions, project management tools, and communication platforms.
- Celebrate your achievements: Recognize and celebrate your accomplishments along the way, no matter how small. Celebrating your progress can boost your motivation and keep you focused on your long-term goals.
Remember, starting and running a business is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come your way, and use the grant funds wisely to build a successful and sustainable business that aligns with your passions and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions and we have answered to give you more ideas and information. So you read such answers as most of the single mom also ask to know about.
How long you have to wait for approval of grants for single mom?
The waiting time for grant approval for single moms varies depending on the specific grant program and the number of applications received. However, in general, you can expect to wait anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks for a decision. Some grant programs may have shorter or longer processing times, so it is always best to check with the specific grant program you are applying to for their estimated timelines.
How much Grants get a Single Mom To Start A Business?
The amount of grant money that a single mom can receive to start a business varies depending on the specific grant program, the business idea, and the financial needs of the business. However, in general, single moms can expect to receive grants that range from $5,000 to $100,000.
Which business is best for a Single Mom?
The best business for a single mom is one that is flexible, allows for a decent work-life balance, and can be managed from home or remotely. Here are some specific business ideas that fit these criteria: these are freelance writing or editing, virtual assistant, online tutoring, online marketing consultant, E-commerce business, pet sitting or dog walking and small and medium shops.
How can a single mom start a business with no money?
Starting a business with no money can be challenging, but it’s not impossible for single moms. There are many business ideas that can be started with very little money, such as freelance writing, virtual assisting, online tutoring, or pet sitting. Leverage your existing skills and experience, start small and scale gradually, and utilize free or low-cost resources to help you start and run your business.
Final Verdict
Business for single mom may ensure more time than having a job. As single moms have to struggle and business is worth balancing work and life. On the other hand, every small business or business that is going to create jobs is inspired in the United States of America. To help them start or grow, there are numerous grants and financial assistance for single mom and other individuals. Then they have to research and reach to the right places to get grants for single mom and will have more economic power and freedom in the way of their life.
