Women entrepreneurs are increasingly launching businesses, but they still receive 31% less funding than men. To help you find a small business loan that works for your company, we’ve put together this ultimate guide to financing options that are specifically designed for women.
We’ve also included alternative financing solutions for women, including grants and equity crowdfunding. These resources can help you get your company off the ground and reach your business goals.
Some government programs focus on empowering women, including the 8(a) Business Development program, which provides grants to support small businesses in economically and socially disadvantaged areas. Other financing options are directly administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). These are often more involved, with a variety of requirements including certifying your business as female-owned and a minimum annual revenue. One example is the SBA 504 loan program, which offers money specifically for purchasing commercial real estate or equipment.
Other potential sources of funding for women include incubators and accelerators, which offer a combination of financing, workspace, and mentorship to help startup companies grow. Women-only incubators and accelerators are available, too.
If you’re looking for a small business loan to start or grow your company, consider working with a local Women’s Business Center (WBC) to help you navigate your financing options. These groups provide free or low-cost training and mentoring for women-owned businesses, and some can connect you with lenders and community financing organizations. You can use the SBA’s WBC locator tool to find a location near you. how to get a small business loan for women