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TWU center announces new round of grants for women-owned startups

Posted by: tdt -

TWU center announces new round of grants for  women-owned startups

 StartHER, a grant program of TWU’s Center for Women Entrepreneurs, is marking its sixth year of offering financial support to women-owned businesses in Texas. 

The center, a program of Texas Women’s University’s Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership, began accepting applications for its latest round of grants on Sept. 3. The center will award 10 grants, each valued at $5,000. 

Since its inception, the grant program has awarded $500,000 in grants to 115 women-owned businesses. Three of these were owned by Dalhart women: Jennifer Been with JBeen Properties, LLC in 2023; Amy Horn of Rockin’ A Design in 2023 and Ashley Watson with Rewarding Waves PEMF in 2024. 

The program receives hundreds of applications yearly, demonstrating high demand 

for funding. StartHER grants have supported and empowered women entrepreneurs across Texas to realize their business dreams. The program provides a crucial boost to women business owners, both current and aspiring, by offering opportunities for innovation and growth. 

“As we celebrate the sixth anniversary of the StartHER Grant Program, our commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs in Texas remains stronger than ever,” said Tracy Irby, the center’s director. “These grants have played a pivotal role in helping women-owned businesses thrive, and we are excited to continue this journey of empowering innovative and ambitious women across the state.” 

The grants provide financial support for various business needs, including purchasing equipment, technology, inventory and property improvements. The grants do not cover wages, salaries or sales tax. Awardees must submit a business plan, spend three hours with a business advisor and complete a virtual, small-business training course that covers essential topics such as business plan development, marketing, legal matters and financial management. 

Joe Livingston, director of Dalhart’s Economic Development Corporation, said that his agency is available to assist applicants with business plans and other aspects of the application process. He can be reached at his office at City Hall, 205 Rock Island Street, or by calling 806-244-5646. 

To apply for the StartHER grant, business owners must submit a completed online application by 5:00 p.m. Oct. 4, 2024. For detailed information, FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) and the application process, visit the official website at twu.edu/ center-women-entrepreneurs/starther/. Any inquiries related to the grants can be directed to CWEgrants@twu.edu. 

“You will be asked to submit your business financials, so be sure you have those in order,” advised Been. “Schedule plenty of time to attend the required business trainings and coaching sessions.” 

“I would tell any woman who owns a business in a Texas rural county that she should definitely apply,” said Watson. “The process is simple, and it’s worth going after.” 

Been agreed. “Being a grant recipient is an excellent networking and business growth opportunity. Take advantage of everything TWU offers through the Center for Women Entrepreneurs.” 

“Winning the grant was a two-fold win as it gave funds for my business but also made me aware of many resources for growth that are available to small businesses in Texas through the Center for Women Entrepreneurs and your local Small Business Development Center,” added Horn. 

The Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University is dedicated to preparing more women to take on successful roles in business and public service. Its three specialized centers ensure women have the education to establish careers as successful executives, the skills for building entrepreneurial businesses, and the framework needed to run for public office. 

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