Historically, women and minority business owners have struggled to secure funding. To address this, several grant opportunities have been created. Some are available to businesses across the country, while others target specific communities or educational initiatives. Here are a few you should know about:

1. Fast Break for Small Business: The NBA and LegalZoom are offering $6 million in grants to underserved small business owners. This multi-year partnership will provide grants twice a year for the next three years, along with mentorship and job training. The grants are aimed at women, minority, immigrant, and LGBTQ+ owned businesses. Applications are due by November 23.

2. The Howard University and PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship: PNC Foundation and Howard University have committed $16.8 million to support minority entrepreneurs. The grant will be used by the university to provide educational resources and community connections to foster entrepreneurship. This five-year partnership also includes a commitment from PNC to increase loan availability to historically underserved business owners.

3. BREAKTHROUGH and Advancing Black Pathways: Digitalundivided and JPMorgan Chase are working together to support Black and LatinX women entrepreneurs. Initially, 15 businesses in Greater Los Angeles will be awarded, but a national grant program is planned for the future. Applications for the first round are due on October 25.

4. Bank of America Access to Capital Directory for Women Entrepreneurs: Bank of America has created a directory to highlight grant and financing opportunities for women entrepreneurs, who often struggle to find adequate access to capital.

5. The Diverse Business Assistance Grant: The state of Wisconsin has launched two grant programs to help minority-owned businesses. The Diverse Business Assistance Grant will support local chambers of commerce in aiding underserved businesses in their community. The Diverse Business Investment Grant will provide funding to lending institutions that support underserved communities, specifically minority businesses with ten or fewer employees. Applications are due November 5.

6. Seattle Small Business Stabilization Fund: The City of Seattle is offering grants of $5,000, $10,000, and $20,000 to businesses negatively affected by the pandemic. Small businesses and nonprofits within city limits, operating with two locations or fewer, with 50 or fewer full-time equivalent employees, and an annual net revenue of $2 million or less are eligible. BIPOC and women business owners will be given priority. Applications must be submitted by November 9.