Unlocking Opportunities: A Guide to Small Business Grants
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Chapter 1: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
The Fellows Program by the Tory Burch Foundation offers an incredible opportunity for women entrepreneurs looking to enhance their business skills. Each year, they select 50 women to participate in a comprehensive program that includes workshops, coaching, networking, and financial assistance. The program culminates in a final presentation and a trip to New York City.
Inside the Fellowship
Participants benefit from:
- Digital Education: Engage with live workshops, specialized groups, and an extensive library of videos and articles.
- Financial Resources: Recipients receive a $5,000 business education grant and access to interest-free loans through Kiva.
- Premier Peer Network: Collaborate with fellow participants, alumni, and mentors through online platforms and small group discussions.
- Fellows Lab: Apply your learnings in a final presentation to experts who can provide insights on your business challenges.
Program Eligibility
To qualify, businesses must be:
- For-profit and in operation for one to five years.
- Generating revenue, ideally over $75,000.
- Based in the United States or its territories.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: November 2, 2023
- Fellow Selection: Spring 2024
Chapter 2: Future Collective Accelerator
The Future Collective accelerator program, hosted by Fiverr, aims to uplift Black entrepreneurs by enhancing growth opportunities within the Fiverr ecosystem. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
- A Fiverr account with at least three orders.
- Identification as Black or African American.
- Residency in the U.S. or Canada and at least 18 years of age.
- A business in operation for at least one year with products/services ready for a national audience.
- Revenue exceeding $75,000 in the most recent fiscal year.
- 51% Black-owned and managed.
Participants should commit to over 30 hours of training and networking activities from January to June 2024.
Applications are due on November 2, 2023.
Chapter 3: $10,000 Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant
Starting now until December 20, 2023, small businesses can apply for a $10,000 grant through the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program. To qualify, businesses must register on the portal and complete at least two activities, which can include courses, coaching, or community events.
The program offers essential training on topics like marketing strategies, employee experience, cybersecurity, and social media growth. Additionally, participants have access to expert mentorship for continued support.
Verizon will also host its fourth Small Business Digital Ready Summit in Atlanta, Georgia, on November 2, 2023, as part of its initiative to aid one million small businesses.
Chapter 4: Slauson & Co. Family and Friends Grant
The Slauson & Co. Family and Friends program offers a remarkable $150,000 grant for startups. This initiative focuses on helping early-stage entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, attract investment, and connect with a supportive network of founders.
Ideal candidates should be:
- U.S.-based and focused on the domestic market.
- Within five years of founding.
- Having raised less than $1 million from any funding source.
Program Details
- Funding: $150K for 5% equity via SAFE, along with startup discounts.
- Duration: A 12-week program featuring weekly virtual sessions and an in-person kickoff in Los Angeles.
- Networking: Opportunities to learn from and connect with industry leaders, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs.
Applications close on November 5th at 11:59 PM PST, with the program running from March 13th to May 31st, 2024.
Need assistance with grant writing? Text #grants to 305–686–0781 for support.