Empowering Small Businesses Through Grants and Pitches

Empowering Small Businesses Through Grants and Pitches

Starting a business often requires resources beyond passion and hard work. Grants and pitch competitions tailored for women, minorities, and eco-friendly ventures can provide vital funding and mentorship. As a woman entrepreneur, I’ve benefited from these opportunities, which have helped grow my business and expand its visibility.

This blog is dedicated to empowering other small business entrepreneurs by sharing a list of non-dilutive funding sources that Dtocs was able to join and won from 2019 to 2024. 

Whether you’re launching a startup or scaling your dream project, these programs can be a game-changer for your journey.


Non-Dilutive Funding Sources for Small Businesses (2021-2024)


    2021

    • RAIN Catalysts Pitch: During the COVID years, I participated in the RAIN Maker Accelerator Program (RAIN Catalysts), where I developed critical skills in data analytics and digital marketing. These insights not only levated my entrepreneurial journey but also paved the way for my success in the pitch competition winning a total of $1,600

    2022

    • Prosper Portland Small Business Grant: Received $3,000 to grow my business in Portland. Learn about current grants here.

     2023

    • Mompreneur National Kitty Fund Grant: Received $1,000 from the kitty fund. Apply for grant here.
    • For women who have big ideas, Explore grants on IFundwomen. Received $5000 on Caress Dreams Fund Grant Program.
    • Freed Fellowship Grant: Secured $500 for small business development. Apply here.
    • IFundWomen Dream Caress Grant: Won $5,000 from this platform for women entrepreneurs. Details here.
    • Won $1000 community catalyst impact award at Business NW IMPACT Pitch.

     

    • Selfmade Pitch: Gained $6,000 through this Brit + Co program supporting women founders. Check it out here.
    • Hello Alice American Dream Grant Award : Won $1,000 grant for small businesses. Check them here

    2024

    • Women Product Entrepreneurs Conference Pitch: Secured $11,250 for product innovation. Watch out for updates at relevant women-led organizations here.

    • Iowa Black and Brown Business Summit Pitch: Earned $1,000 from this summit supporting minority entrepreneurs. More info here.

     

    • TIE Oregon Pitch: Received $3,500 from this startup competition. Learn more here.

    • Livelihood NW Grant: Won $2,500 to grow a sustainable business. Professional Services grant in Tax Prep & Financial Planning Services to grow business. Apply here.

    • Business Impact NW Pitch Community Award: Won $1000 community catalyst impact award through this organization. Details here.

    • Business Impact NW Pitch Winner: Won $6,000  pitch for established business category. See updates here. 

    • Bridge for Billions + BECU Pitch: Secured $4,500 in pitch money. Learn more here.
    • National ACE + Minority Women Lead California Pitch: Won $3,000 in this supportive pitch for minority women entrepreneurs. Visit National ACE.

    • KeyBank and MESO PDX Pitch: Earned first prize $20,000 for Pitch Competition. Explore funding options here.

    • Hello Alice Antares Boost Camp: Secured a $25,000 grant. Details are available here.

     

    💡 Bonus Resources: Looking for even more grants?

    Explore Galaxy of Stars' Grants Guide for a comprehensive directory of funding opportunities tailored to small businesses like yours.

     

    We are updating this list so save this blog for future reference.

     

    Applying for grants and pitches can seem daunting, but the potential rewards are well worth the effort. These funding opportunities not only provide financial support but also create invaluable networks and visibility for your business. Take advantage of these programs, and remember—every application is a step closer to your dreams.

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