Center awards $100K in grants to rural Texans

June 23, 2026 — DENTON — The Center for Women Entrepreneurs (CWE), a program of the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University, has announced the 10 recipients of its 2026 Texas Rural Grant program.

Now in its fourth year, the program awarded 10 grants of $10,000 each, totaling $100,000, to support small businesses in eligible rural Texas communities.

Recipients represent a multitude of industries and will use the funds to support key business needs, including a trailer, building enhancements, professional memberships, facility improvements, inventory expansion, marketing efforts, technology upgrades, and other investments designed to strengthen business operations and long-term sustainability.

The 2026 grant winners are:

“Small businesses are the backbone of rural Texas communities, but entrepreneurs in these areas often face unique challenges when it comes to accessing capital, training and business resources,” said Tracy Irby, director of the Center for Women Entrepreneurs. “These grants provide more than funding. They help business owners invest in growth, create jobs and strengthen their local economies. This year, seven of the 10 grant recipients came through the Sul Ross Small Business Development Center, demonstrating the value of strong ecosystem partners. Seeing multiple recipients from communities as small as Alpine and Presidio shows the impact local business support organizations can have on entrepreneurial success.”

###

The Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University is dedicated to preparing women to take on successful roles in business and public service through education, leadership development, and entrepreneurship programs across Texas.

Page last updated 3:30 PM, June 23, 2026