Starting a business is hard enough without the crushing costs of inventory.
Many founders have the vision, the location, and even customers waiting — but can’t afford to stock their shelves.
Now imagine if someone covered your first order for you. That’s exactly what this new $5,000 grant is designed to do.
If you’ve launched a retail shop recently (or plan to this year), you may be eligible. Below, we’ll break down who qualifies, what you’ll need, and the exact steps to apply before the September 30 deadline.
Why This Matters for Women of Color Founders
Let’s be real: when loans are denied and lines of credit are tiny, inventory becomes the roadblock that quietly kills so many good ideas. Grants like this aren’t just nice-to-haves — they’re lifelines. A single $5K order could mean the difference between launching with empty shelves or presenting your community with a full, exciting store.
And here’s the kicker: grants like this are judged by humans. That means how you tell your story — not just your numbers — matters.
Step 1: Tell Them About Your Store
The application starts by setting up your retailer account. You’ll be asked to pick the type of store you run (like Apparel Boutique, Book Store, Cafe, Salon, or “Other”) and when you opened. You’ll also estimate annual sales.
👉 Don’t skip this. Some grants make it mandatory. See our guide on how to get one.
Khila James
Step 2: Provide Financial Details
You’ll agree to a soft credit check (won’t affect your score), share basic personal info, and optionally add your business name.
Step 3: Submit a Short Video
This is your make-or-break moment. Forget polished production — heart beats polish every time. Judges want to see your passion and connection to community.
🎥 INSIDER Script Template (Use This Framework)
Keep it under 3 minutes. Think of it as 3 short chapters:
1. Who You Are (30–45 seconds)
- “Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m the founder of [Your Store].”
- “We’re based in [City/Community], and we serve [who your store is for — e.g., ‘busy moms looking for sustainable products’ or ‘our local Black literary community’].”
2. Your Vision + Why It Matters (60–75 seconds)
- “I started this business because [share your story or inspiration — make it personal].”
- “Our mission is to [state your vision clearly, e.g., ‘make wellness accessible in my neighborhood’ or ‘highlight creators of color in our town’].”
- “What makes us unique is [highlight 1 differentiator — local suppliers, cultural connection, eco-friendly sourcing, etc.].”
3. How $5,000 Will Change Everything (45–60 seconds)
- “This grant will allow us to [specific action: ‘stock our first shelves without debt,’ ‘launch a children’s book section that celebrates Black and Brown authors,’ or ‘finally move from pop-ups to a permanent storefront’].”
- “With this support, we’ll be able to [state ripple effect: ‘create jobs,’ ‘circulate dollars locally,’ ‘make our products affordable’].”
- “Thank you for considering my application.”
Key Dates
- September 30, 2025: Application deadline
- October 1–30, 2025: Review period
- October 31, 2025: Winners announced
✅ Action Checklist
- Mark September 30 in your calendar now.
- Draft your 3-part video script.
- Gather social links + projections.
- Secure (or apply for) your resale tax ID.
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