For women entrepreneurs—especially those leading small, creative, or emerging businesses—the challenge of finding supportive funding is often even greater. That’s exactly why WomensNet’s Amber Grant exists.
Since its founding in 1998, the Amber Grant has grown into one of North America’s most accessible and inspiring funding opportunities for women-owned businesses. By offering $10,000 monthly grants and additional $25,000 year-end awards, WomensNet helps women turn passion into purpose, ideas into enterprises, and small ventures into sustainable businesses.
For women entrepreneurs—especially those leading small, creative, or emerging businesses—the challenge of finding supportive funding is often even greater. That’s exactly why WomensNet’s Amber Grant exists.
Since its founding in 1998, the Amber Grant has grown into one of North America’s most accessible and inspiring funding opportunities for women-owned businesses. By offering $10,000 monthly grants and additional $25,000 year-end awards, WomensNet helps women turn passion into purpose, ideas into enterprises, and small ventures into sustainable businesses.
A Legacy of Love and Purpose
The Amber Grant was created in memory of Amber Wigdahl, a young woman who passed away at the age of 19 before she could fulfill her entrepreneurial dreams. Determined to honor her spirit, WomensNet launched the grant program to encourage and support other women like Amber—those with ideas, creativity, and the courage to build something meaningful.
What started as a single memorial grant has evolved into a dynamic funding initiative that now awards at least $30,000 every month through multiple programs. The Amber Grant not only celebrates women’s entrepreneurship but also amplifies voices across industries—from food and fashion to STEM, education, wellness, and the arts.
How the Amber Grant Works
Each month, WomensNet selects several women-owned businesses to receive $10,000 Amber Grants. Then, at the end of the year, all monthly winners are automatically entered into consideration for three additional $25,000 Year-End Grants.
In addition to these general awards, WomensNet also offers:
-
Startup Grants for businesses in the idea or early launch phase.
-
Business Category Grants, which rotate monthly and spotlight different industries such as Creative Arts, Sustainability, Health & Fitness, and Fashion & Interior Design.
This multi-tiered system allows WomensNet to recognize diverse business types and stages, ensuring that entrepreneurs at all levels have a chance to access vital funding.
Simple, Heartfelt Application Process
One of the hallmarks of the Amber Grant is its simplicity. There are no complex proposals, pitch decks, or endless forms to complete. Applicants simply share their story—what they do, why they do it, and how grant funds would help them achieve their goals.
According to WomensNet, the most successful applicants “speak from the heart.” The judges look for authenticity, passion, and vision—qualities that reflect the spirit of Amber Wigdahl herself.
To apply, you must:
-
Be 18 years or older
-
Own at least 50% of a business based in the U.S. or Canada
-
Complete a short online form and pay a modest $15 application fee
There’s no need to reapply each month; one application makes you eligible for all relevant grant categories. Winners are announced by the 23rd of the following month, keeping the process transparent and fast-paced.
Apply now at: https://ambergrantsforwomen.com/get-an-amber-grant/
Meet Some of the 2025 Amber Grant Recipients
Every month, WomensNet highlights inspiring women who have taken bold steps to build their businesses. Some of this year’s winners include:
-
Cranberry Oysters – April 2025 recipient, blending coastal sustainability with entrepreneurship.
-
Neckglasses, LLC – May 2025 recipient, revolutionizing eyewear accessories.
-
The Good Food CFO – June 2025 recipient, supporting ethical and sustainable food business practices.
-
West Village Homeschool Co-op – July 2025 recipient, empowering education through community collaboration.
-
Gloucester Sea Hive – August 2025 recipient, showcasing creative retail entrepreneurship.
These women, along with others across North America, now have a chance to compete for the $25,000 Year-End Grant, awarded to three of the most outstanding winners each year.
Celebrating Business Diversity
WomensNet’s strength lies in its recognition that women’s businesses come in all forms and industries. Its rotating Business Category Grants highlight specific sectors each month, from animal services to health, beauty, sustainability, and education.
Some 2025 category winners include:
-
Flour and Salt Bakery LLC – Food & Beverage (March)
-
Shuggie’s Trash Pie + Natural Wine – Sustainability (April)
-
Hope & Wellness PLLC – Mental/Emotional Support (May)
-
FloraMetrics LLC – Business Support Services (June)
-
Campfire Cutz Campground Dog Grooming – Animal Services (July)
-
Beauty Bar Academy – Hair Care & Skincare (August)
WomensNet also honors Startup Grant winners like Blue Moves Media LLC and Farmer Analytics LLC, proving that even the earliest business ideas can find support when nurtured with vision and courage.
What Applicants and Experts Are Saying
The Amber Grant has received national recognition from top media outlets, affirming its credibility and impact:
-
Forbes calls it a must-apply opportunity: “You have to be in it to win it... seize the opportunity and apply.”
-
NerdWallet notes: “Every month, WomensNet awards three $10,000 Amber Grants to women-owned businesses, with $25,000 year-end grants for select winners.”
-
CNN highlights the program’s generosity: “The Amber Grant offers three $10,000 grants monthly and three $25,000 year-end awards.”
-
Essence Magazine praises its inclusivity: “Monthly grants of up to $10,000 to support female entrepreneurs starting businesses.”
These endorsements reflect what many women already know: the Amber Grant doesn’t just provide money—it builds confidence, community, and momentum.
Why the Amber Grant Stands Out
Unlike many business grant programs, the Amber Grant feels personal. It’s about more than numbers—it’s about women’s stories.
Each application invites women to share their motivations, challenges, and dreams. Whether it’s a baker launching her first storefront, a scientist developing eco-friendly products, or a teacher starting an online learning hub, every idea matters.
By democratizing access to funding, WomensNet has built a network of support that continues to grow stronger with every award cycle. Many past recipients remain connected, mentoring others and giving back to the very community that helped them succeed.
Deadline and Next Steps
The next $10,000 Amber Grant deadline is October 31, 2025, so applicants are encouraged to submit early. Winners will be announced by November 23, 2025, and automatically entered for the 2025 Year-End $25,000 Grant competition.
Apply now at: https://ambergrantsforwomen.com/get-an-amber-grant/
Final Thoughts: A Sisterhood of Support
At its core, the Amber Grant is more than just a funding program—it’s a movement. It embodies the idea that when women invest in each other, communities thrive.
WomensNet’s continued dedication to empowering women entrepreneurs ensures that Amber’s legacy lives on—through every product launched, every service created, and every dream fulfilled.
So, whether you’re a seasoned founder or just sketching out your business idea, remember: your story matters. Speak from the heart, share your passion, and apply. You might just become the next Amber Grant recipient—and join a community of women changing the face of entrepreneurship one $10,000 grant at a time.
Apply Now: https://ambergrantsforwomen.com/get-an-amber-grant/
Next Deadline: October 31, 2025
Award Amounts: $10,000 monthly | $25,000 year-end grants
Eligibility: Women 18+, owning 50% or more of a business in the U.S. or Canada.