SBA offers $30M grant to grow Women's Business Centers.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has made an exciting announcement - they are offering a generous grant opportunity of $30 million to further support the growth of Women's Business Centers (WBCs). This funding will not only expand the WBC Network, but also open a new WBC in the U.S. Virgin Islands. In addition, it will provide a unique opportunity for WBCs that specialize in federal contracting and childcare businesses to receive funding.

Isabel Guzman, head of the SBA, shared her enthusiasm for this expansion, stating, "Under the Biden-Harris administration, the SBA's WBC network is dedicated to reaching both established and aspiring women business owners and helping them overcome the unique challenges they face in funding and growing their businesses." She continued, "This funding will allow us to meet the increasing demand for WBC services, especially as the current administration continues to promote small business growth." Guzman also mentioned that virtual tools will be utilized to provide resources to even more small businesses, with a focus on addressing the needs of the child care industry and promoting women in federal contracting.

The newly established WBCs will join a network of 152 in-person WBCs across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. To be eligible for the grant, applicants must be nonprofit organizations with 501 tax-exempt status that provide entrepreneurial development services to women, particularly in underserved communities. Christina Hale, assistant administrator for the SBA's Office of Women's Business Ownership, emphasized the impact of these new WBCs, stating, "Every new WBC opens doors for women entrepreneurs who need training and practical assistance to start and grow their small businesses. By investing in women's economic potential, the SBA is fostering innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening communities."

For those interested in learning more about the grant funding, a virtual WBC Applicant Workshop will be held and listed in the Notice of Funding Opportunity. Any inquiries can be directed to the SBA's Office of Women's Business Ownership at [email protected]. This initiative is part of the SBA's larger effort to support women entrepreneurs, including awarding up to $300,000 in grants to six women veteran entrepreneurs.

The SBA's commitment to promoting women's economic potential is evident in this grant funding opportunity. By expanding the WBC Network and providing resources to underserved communities, the SBA is helping women entrepreneurs succeed and contribute to the growth of their communities.

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