StartUP Grant

The 2026 StartUP Grant application is open

There are several things you can do now to prepare:

Review the eligibility requirements to determine if your business may qualify.
Gather your business formation and ownership documents and review the list of acceptable documents.
Check that your business records are up to date and are in good standing with the state.
Review the sample application to become familiar with similar grant questions and information requested.
Watch the grant application and FAQ videos.
Begin planning the specific project you would fund with the $5,000 grant.
Gather quotes, estimates, preliminary invoices, or other documentation for your proposed expenses.
Begin drafting your Company Background and Project Narrative responses.

Applicants must review the Grant Guidelines and FAQ before beginning an application.

The Center for Women Entrepreneurs at Texas Woman’s University is funded by the Texas Legislature to promote women entrepreneurs throughout Texas. Through statewide programs and resources, the Center provides business advising, training, networking, and grant opportunities. No affiliation with Texas Woman’s University is required to apply for the StartUP Grant or participate in Center programs.

2026 StartUP Grant

The Center for Women Entrepreneurs (CWE) StartUP Grant provides funding to help eligible Texas startups launch new initiatives and accelerate business growth.

Important dates

Applications open: September 1, 2026
Applications close: 5:00:00 p.m. (Central Time), September 23, 2026
StartUP Grant winners announced: October 23, 2026
Small Business Training Course: October 27, 2026
Grant requirements deadline: April 23, 2027

Before you apply

Before beginning your application, complete the following steps:

Review the Grant Guidelines

Read the complete Grant Guidelines to determine whether your business is eligible and that you understand all application requirements.

Review the Frequently Asked Questions

Review the FAQ for answers to common questions, acceptable business documentation, budget requirements, and application tips.

Prepare your application

Before applying for a grant:

Make sure your business is eligible
Gather acceptable business formation documents.
Gather ownership documentation.
Review the sample application.
Prepare your Company Background and Project Narrative.
Gather quotes, estimates, preliminary invoices, Amazon screenshots, or other documentation for every requested expense in your budget.
Watch the grant videos.

Submit your application

Applications close automatically at 5:00:00 p.m. Central Time on September 23, 2026.

Applicants must review the Grant Guidelines and FAQ before beginning an application. Applications that do not meet the eligibility requirements or do not include all required information and documentation will be disqualified.

There is no need to rush and submit your application as soon as the grant opens. In fact, most of the applications the first week are disqualified because they didn’t follow the steps on this page.

Application is at the bottom of the grant guidelines page.

Page last updated 12:30 PM, September 1, 2026