Top Grants, Support Programs, and Business Loans in Florida for Women

In today’s world, women are leading in all corners whether it is healthcare, finance, public relations, or education. Similarly, this applies to businesses. Women entrepreneurs are not behind anyone when it comes to being a CEO and leading a startup or small business.

Talking about the women entrepreneurs in Florida, they are making remarkable strides in the small business space. Despite this growth, access to working capital remains a common barrier for many women-owned businesses.

According to our 2025 Annual Women-Owned Business Study, Florida ranks second in the number of financing applications submitted by women-owned businesses, following California. No matter if you’re a woman wanting to expand a boutique in Tampa or want to launch a wellness studio in Orlando, you might face a lot of hurdles when it comes to securing business loans in Florida.

In this article, we’ll discuss the top small business grants available for women entrepreneurs in Florida, explore support programs designed to help women-led businesses grow, and also review the best small business funding options in Florida. Additionally, we will discuss tips to increase your chances of approval for getting small business loans in Florida.

Top Small Business Grants for Women in Florida

Let’s begin with small business grants first. These are one of the most appealing forms of financial support for women entrepreneurs as they don’t require repayment, unlike loans. Although competitive, several grant programs are available specifically to support women-owned businesses in Florida.

Amber Grant

Amber Grant is a well-known grant program that awards $10,000 each month to three women-owned businesses and offers an additional $25,000 annually to one of the finalists. This financial assistance is given by WomensNet that focuses on passionate female entrepreneurs across all industries in Florida, including nonprofits and for-profit startups.

The grant application process is straightforward and there’s no requirement for extensive business plans or perfect credit. For women entrepreneurs looking for small business funding in Florida, these growth grants offer an accessible path that can cover essential business needs.

IFundWomen Universal Grant Application

The next grant option is IFundWomen. It is a national platform that connects applicants with current and future grant opportunities sponsored by major corporations and the federal government. Women looking for funding options in Florida for their businesses can opt for this small business grant program.

Here, you can easily complete a single application and then you’ll be matched to ongoing grant opportunities. This dynamic model makes it a smart move for any women founder in Florida exploring economic development and entrepreneurship support for their new business or any existing business.

HerRise MicroGrant

The HerRise MicroGrant is offered by the Yva Jourdan Foundation that provides $1,000 each month to under-resourced women, including women of any color and minority-owned businesses across a variety of industries. However, to become a grant recipient, your small business should have less than $1 million in gross revenue.

This grant program helps women business owners meet smaller scale but meaningful business needs in Florida. These grant funds can be used for marketing campaigns, website improvements, or equipment purchases that could otherwise cause a financial pinch.

Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant

Eileen Fisher federal grant program awards $200,000 annually in amounts ranging from $10,000 to $40,000. It supports women-owned businesses focused on environmental and social change.

To be eligible, a business should help increase women’s participation in decision-making for environmental outcomes or provide training in climate change adaptation, advocacy, and leadership.

Cartier Women's Initiative Award

Cartier Women’s global grant funding program supports early-stage women entrepreneurs who are creating impact-driven startups. Winners receive up to $100,000 in grant money.

Applicants must be in the early stages of business, generating revenue for at least one year, and meeting at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Support Programs for Women-Owned Businesses

Grants are just the beginning. There are also well-established organizations in Florida offering mentoring, guidance, and professional support through dedicated assistance programs.

Florida Women’s Business Center (FLWBC)

FLWBC provides one-on-one counseling, business education, and workshops tailored to help women make informed decisions and grow their businesses. They focus on practical business development support, from how to build credit to preparing financial projections.

Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)

Spread across Florida, SBDCs are a reliable first stop for many entrepreneurs. They offer free consulting services and affordable training in areas such as legal compliance, marketing strategies, and operations planning. These are invaluable resources for startup owners and small business development.

Women’s Business Centers (WBCs)

These SBA-backed centers specialize in serving women entrepreneurs. In Florida, WBCs provide a supportive environment for idea development, pitch practice, grant application reviews, and access to networks that foster professional growth and partnerships.

Business Loans in Florida for Women

For those looking beyond grant funding, there are multiple avenues to secure business loans in Florida that are friendly to women-owned businesses.

SBA MicroLoan Program

This U.S. Small Business Administration program is ideal for newer businesses or those needing smaller loans up to $50,000. What makes it particularly helpful is the added benefit of mentorship and technical assistance. This business loan in Florida is often used to fund inventory purchases, working capital, or minor equipment needs.

Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)

CDFIs are mission-driven lenders that prioritize funding for underserved communities, including women business owners. They often have more flexible credit requirements than banks and may offer lower interest rates for various startup business loans in Florida. Examples in Florida include BBIF and Prospera.

Amerant Bank Women-Owned Business Loans in Florida

Amerant Bank, a Florida-based institution, offers dedicated small business loans in Florida for women entrepreneurs. These come with customized support and a focus on helping businesses grow sustainably.

Online Business Loans in Florida

Various digital lending platforms provide flexible loan options with streamlined applications. These options are ideal for early-stage or startup owners. While faster to access, it’s essential to review their terms and repayment schedules thoroughly.

Credit Union Business Loans in Florida

Local credit unions often offer lower interest rates and more personalized business loans in Florida than big banks. They’re a good option for women business owners who prefer community-focused financial institutions and may offer flexible terms for newer businesses.

Business Lines of Credit

A line of credit gives you access to a set amount of funds that you can draw from as needed, ideal for managing short-term expenses or fluctuating cash flow. This is helpful for retail businesses, service providers, or seasonal operations.

Equipment Financing

If your business needs new machinery, technology, or tools, equipment financing can help spread out the cost. The equipment itself typically acts as collateral, making this an option for those with limited credit history.

Conclusion

Opportunities for women entrepreneurs in Florida are growing, but securing funding still requires persistence and preparation. Whether you're applying for a competitive grant or reviewing the small business loans in Florida requirements, the key is knowing where to look and how to present your business effectively.

Take the next step, explore the grant programs above, connect with a support center, and apply for a business loan in Florida that fits your business goals. The resources are there, you just need to reach out and put them to work.

Frequently Asked Questions About Business Loans in Florida for Women

What types of business loans in Florida are available for women entrepreneurs?

Women entrepreneurs in Florida can access several types of loans including SBA MicroLoans, funding from Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), women-focused loan products from banks like Amerant Bank, and fast-access loans through online lenders like Kiva and Accion Opportunity Fund.

Are there grants specifically for women-owned businesses in Florida?

Yes. Popular grants include the Amber Grant, HerRise MicroGrant, the Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant, and the Cartier Women’s Initiative Award. These programs support different business goals, from social impact to innovation and sustainability.

Where can I find mentorship or help with my loan or grant application?

You can reach out to local organizations like the Florida Women’s Business Center (FLWBC), Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), and Women’s Business Centers (WBCs). These offer free business counseling, application reviews, and educational workshops.

Is it hard to get a business grant for a woman-owned company?

Grants are competitive, but they are definitely worth applying for. Strong applications include clear financials, a compelling story, and a solid plan for how the grant money will be used to grow your business. Some grants, like the Amber Grant, have simpler application processes than others.

What are the best first steps for a woman applying for business funding in Florida?

Start by identifying your funding needs, whether it’s a grant, a business loan in Florida, or both. Then, gather your financial documents, write a clear business plan, and seek support from local business centers. It also helps to research and apply to multiple opportunities simultaneously.

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