The Small Business Administration is providing $30 million in grant funding for Women’s Business Centers, with a portion allocated to opening a new center in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Eligible organizations that are chosen will receive up to $150,000 to establish and operate a Women’s Business Center. Currently, there are 152 Women’s Business Centers across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. This is the first time that organizations offering virtual counseling and training services to women-owned small businesses will be eligible for the grants, in addition to those with in-person offices.
The grants will be distributed in four main areas: supporting women business owners in government contracting, providing entrepreneurial development services to women-owned small businesses specializing in child care services, offering general entrepreneurial development services to women in locations without existing centers, and aiding in the establishment of a center in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Christina Hale, Assistant Administrator for the SBA’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership, stated that each new Women’s Business Center provides opportunities for women entrepreneurs to access training and practical assistance to start and expand their small businesses.
For inquiries about these grants, individuals can reach out to the SBA’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership at owbo@sba.gov. Established in 1979 by executive order, this office plays a vital role in supporting and empowering women business owners across the country.