The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) opens the door to a wide range of opportunities for women looking to launch, grow, or strengthen their businesses. 

Whether you're seeking startup capital, expansion funding, or access to government contracts, the SBA offers programs, partnerships, and loan options designed to help women move forward with confidence.

From funding programs like SBA 7(a) and microloans to specialized initiatives that support women-owned businesses in federal contracting, the SBA can serve as a powerful springboard for female entrepreneurs ready to start and scale their businesses.

Women-owned businesses are one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic forces in the U.S. economy. Here, we’ll take a look at how you can get access to capital, as well as how you can connect to a larger ecosystem of support, education, and long-term growth.

Types of SBA Loans for Women Entrepreneurs

Women business owners have access to the full suite of SBA loan programs. 

These loans are designed to support small businesses at various stages—whether you're starting out, expanding operations, or investing in long-term assets.

SBA 7(a) Loan Program

The SBA 7(a) loan is the most popular and versatile SBA program. It's commonly used for working capital, equipment purchases, inventory, hiring, refinancing existing debt, or even buying a business.

  • Loan amounts: Up to $5 million
  • Repayment terms: Up to 10 years for working capital, up to 25 years for real estate
  • Interest rates: Competitive, partially backed by the SBA
  • Best for: Established businesses looking for flexibility in how they use funds

SBA Microloan Program

Microloans are smaller loans often distributed by nonprofit community lenders, many of which focus specifically on underserved or underrepresented groups—including women.

  • Loan amounts: Up to $50,000
  • Average loan size: ~$13,000
  • Best for: Startups, early-stage businesses, or entrepreneurs with limited credit history
  • Additional perks: Lenders often provide business training or mentorship alongside financing

SBA 504 Loan Program

The 504 loan is ideal for businesses making large investments in fixed assets—like buying commercial property, renovating a facility, or purchasing major equipment.

  • Loan amounts: Up to $5.5 million
  • Terms: 10, 20, or 25 years
  • Best for: Businesses planning long-term investments in infrastructure or expansion

To recap, here’s a comparison chart of each SBA loan feature. For more information on each loan feature, visit the guides linked below! 

SBA 7(a) Loan Program SBA Microloan Program SBA 504 Loan Program
Maximum Loan Amounts Up to $5 million Up to $50,000 Up to $5.5 Million
SBA Interest Rates 10.5%- 15.5% 8%-13% Typically 3% of loan amount
SBA Loan Terms 10-25 years 10 years 10-25 years

Unique Loan and Grant Opportunities for Female Entrepreneurs

In addition to SBA loans, women entrepreneurs can benefit from alternative funding sources that cater specifically to women-owned or minority-owned businesses, including SBA grants.

CDFIs and Nonprofit Microlenders

Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are local lenders that prioritize underserved entrepreneurs. 

Many provide microloans, business coaching, and flexible underwriting that makes funding more accessible for women-owned businesses.

Examples include:

  • Accion Opportunity Fund – A national lender supporting women, minority, and low-to-moderate-income entrepreneurs with loans and mentoring.
  • Grameen America – Offers group-based microloans to women in low-income communities across major U.S. cities.
  • LiftFund – Based in Texas and serving the Southeast, LiftFund provides microloans and SBA options for women and minority founders.
  • Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) – A California-based nonprofit offering up to $50,000 in small business loans and robust business training programs.

Women’s Business Centers (WBCs)

WBCs are SBA-funded resource hubs that provide free or low-cost business advising, training, and access to capital—all tailored to the needs of women entrepreneurs.

Notable centers include:

You can find your nearest Women’s Business Center using the SBA’s WBC locator tool.

Grants and Private Programs

Although harder to get, grants offer another option—especially for women-led ventures focused on innovation or impact. 

Grants don’t require repayment, but they’re often very competitive and come with specific eligibility requirements.

Well-known grant programs for women entrepreneurs include:

Many states and cities offer local or regional grants for women-owned businesses through economic development programs.

Your local Women’s Business Center (WBC) or Small Business Development Center (SBDC) can help you identify grant opportunities in your area.

SBA Programs & Certifications for Women-Owned Businesses

These programs don't provide direct loans—but they significantly expand the opportunities and advantages available to women-owned businesses through training, certification, and access to government contracts.

WOSB Federal Contracting Program

The Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program helps women gain access to government contracts in industries where women have been historically underrepresented.

  • What it does: Sets aside specific federal contracts for certified WOSBs
  • Eligibility: At least 51% women-owned and controlled; U.S. citizens
  • Certification: Apply via wosb.certify.sba.gov

This program opens the door to millions in federal spending across sectors like construction, cybersecurity, staffing, and professional services.

8(a) Business Development Program

Designed for socially and economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs, the 8(a) program offers support through mentorship, government contracting assistance, and access to business development resources.

  • Length: 9-year program
  • Benefits: Sole-source government contracts, networking, and training
  • Eligibility: Business must be at least 51% owned by an individual who is both socially and economically disadvantaged. Many women qualify.

SBA’s Ascent Learning Platform

Ascent is a free, SBA-backed digital learning platform built specifically for women entrepreneurs. It includes in-depth modules on:

  • Financial strategy
  • Scaling operations
  • Marketing and branding
  • Goal setting

Ideal for business owners who want self-paced training or additional prep before applying for funding.

National Women’s Business Council (NWBC)

The NWBC is an independent federal advisory council that conducts research and advocates for policy that supports women in business. 

While it doesn't offer funding directly, it's a valuable resource for understanding national trends and tapping into the broader network of women-led enterprises.

Navigating SBA Resources as a Woman Entrepreneur

Getting funding is about making strategic use of the resources available to you. So, as you move forward:

  • Use support programs strategically – for example, combine a microloan with free advising from a WBC or pair a 7(a) loan with WOSB certification.
  • Know your numbers – have a business plan, revenue projections, and clear credit profile before you apply.
  • Leverage local resources – WBCs, SCORE mentors, and SBA district offices can help you prep for applications and certifications.
  • Apply through multiple channels – Lendio allows you to compare SBA loan offers from multiple lenders with one application.

With the right strategy and support, the funding you need to grow your business is well within reach.