top of page
 PROGRAM |CAPITAL 
Seed capital for the business
you're building on solid
ground. 

Foundation Micro-Grants provide early-stage funding for women-led businesses and nonprofits across the DC–Maryland corridor — awarded twice a year to founders who’ve completed a Mentorship Circle.

ChatGPT Image Sep 5, 2026, 09_39_15 PM.png
Grant Details

$2,500 

Award range per grantee

2x

Cycles each year, spring and fall

DMV

Open to women-led businesses and nonprofits across the DC–Maryland–Virginia corridor

How funds can be used

Licensing & Certification

Business registration, permits, or professional certifications.

Working Capital

Bridging the gap between launch costs and first revenue.

Equipment & Inventory

Paired with a mentor whose background fits your industry and stage.

Marketing & Brand Development

Getting the business in front of its first real customers.

Application Timeline

Informational Session

A short virtual session covering eligibility and how to prepare a strong application.​​

Application window

Four weeks to submit your application, budget, and Mentorship Circle completion confirmation.

Review

Applications are reviewed by a panel of Foundation strategists and community leaders.

Award

Grantees are notified and funds are disbursed ahead of the next quarter.

01.

02.

03.

04.

Eligibility
Do I need to complete a Mentorship Circle first?

Yes. Micro-Grants are reserved for founders who have completed, or are currently enrolled in, a Mentorship Circle.

Where do I need to be based?

Your business or nonprofit should be based in, or primarily serve, the DC–Maryland–Virginia corridor.

Can nonprofits apply, not just businesses?

Yes — women-led nonprofits at an early stage are eligible on the same terms as businesses.

Ready to Step Into Your Purpose?

Complete a Mentorship Circle to become eligible, or check the 
informational session schedule if you've already graduated. 
ChatGPT Image Sep 5, 2026, 11_28_35 PM.png
bottom of page