The Center for Women Entrepreneurs (CWE), a program of the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University, will start accepting applications for its Texas Rural Woman Grant on May 15.

Grant Overview and Eligibility

In an effort to support rural female entrepreneurs, CWE will award thirty-five $10,000 grants, totaling $350,000, to qualified Texas rural women who have been in business for at least three years. This initiative marks the first time the grant has been offered to aid women in rural areas needing capital to expand their businesses.

Applicants must submit a completed online application before 5:00 pm on June 9. Winners will be announced on June 26. To determine rural eligibility, check this list of Texas counties.

Grant Usage and Restrictions

Grantees can use the funds for the purchase of machinery, equipment, or technology; farm implements, fencing, or products; acquisition of new inventory or raw materials; purchase and installation of fixtures or display units; property improvements; or other business-related activities aligned with the program’s purpose. However, grants cannot be used for wages, salaries, or sales tax.

Training and Support for Awardees

Upon receiving the grant, awardees will meet with a small-business advisor and complete a virtual training course hosted by the center. This course will cover topics related to financial growth, business development, and marketing.

CWE Director Tracy Irby commented on the program, saying, “Rural women don’t have access to the resources, training, or capital that typically is available in the metropolitan areas. This grant can help 35 women that may not have the resources to expand their business.”

Application Information

For more information, FAQs, or to apply, visit the Texas Rural Grant website.

About the Center for Women Entrepreneurs

The CWE is a program of the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University. The JNIWL aims to prepare women to take on successful roles in business and public service. Its three specialized centers — the Center for Student Leadership, the Center for Women Entrepreneurs, and the Center for Women in Politics & Public Policy — ensure women have the education to establish careers as successful C-suite executives, the skills for building entrepreneurial businesses, and the framework needed to run for public office. To learn more about the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership and its programs, visit the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership website.