Pursue Your Pivot: Resource Roundup

A word …

My birthday was Tuesday, and ya girl turned 42! I enjoyed doing exactly what I wanted … working out and resting. I was (and am) in such a space of gratitude for where I’ve been, where I am, and where I am going that being still on this special occasion was the perfect way to celebrate my personal holiday.

When was the last time you really took the time to appreciate your journey and express gratitude for your growth?

Shout out to all my 80s April babies …

It was my birthday, but this is my gift to you …

I’ve been asked several times about grants, funding, and other business resources. So, to help you all pivot, I wanted to take a break from our regularly scheduled programming and compile a list of resources to help you on your journey. This is for all of my entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs.

If someone you know could benefit from this information, please forward this newsletter to them.

Caveat: Including these resources does not endorse these offerings and platforms. Please do your due diligence to ensure that any opportunity you pursue is right for you and your unique set of circumstances.

Funding Opportunities

- Fast Break for Small Business: Legal Zoom has partnered with the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League to offer $3 million in grant funding and services to small business owners and emerging entrepreneurs. Apply Here

- IFundWomen: This crowdfunding platform has a coaching program specifically for women to raise funds. Apply Here

- HerRise Microgrant: This organization encourages entrepreneurs with a transformative vision to apply for a grant by sharing the essence of their business story. Apply Here

- Giving Joy: This organization awards one-time microgrants of up to $500 to women-led initiatives—giving women entrepreneurs critical resources to start businesses, acquire skills, sustain operations, or improve their ideas worldwide. Apply Here

- Black Ambition Prize: This is a tiered opportunity to compete for $1,000,000 and learn with a network of talented founders and business leaders across sectors. Apply Here

- Brown Girl Jane: This plant-based wellness and beauty brand has partnered with SheaMoisture since 2020 to provide over $400,000 in grants to amplify Black female entrepreneurs within the beauty and wellness industries. Applications open in Fall 2024.

- Comcast RISE: This organization will award 500 recipients in five cities with a grant package that includes business consultation services, educational resources, monetary grant, creative production, media schedule, and a technology makeover. Applications will be accepted starting May 1st. Check back soon!

Business Resources

- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): Offers loans, loan guarantees, and other resources. Visit SBA

- SCORE: Free business mentoring and education from experienced advisors. Visit SCORE

- Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC): Helps women-owned businesses start and grow. Visit WBENC

- National Women’s Business Council (NWBC): Offers resources and policy advice for women entrepreneurs. Visit NWBC

- Women’s Business Centers (WBCs): Nationwide centers that provide business training, mentoring, and financing opportunities to women. Visit WBCs

Entrepreneurial Training and Mentorship

- Ellevate Network: A global network providing women with mentorship, networking, and professional development. Explore Here

- Sistahbiz Global Network: A network that helps Black women solopreneurs and microbusinesses build scalable, sellable businesses. Explore Here

- DigitalUndivided: Focuses on programs and initiatives that foster economic growth in Black and Latinx communities. Explore Here

- The Boss Network: An online community of professional and entrepreneurial women who support each other through conversation, online and event-based networking. Explore Here 

Parting Thoughts …

The below is a cool list, and while I haven’t and won’t pursue all of these suggestions, there is probably something for everyone to consider.