Sisternomics Empowerment Grant

Sisternomics Empowerment Grant

Funder: National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. — Metropolitan Washington D.C. Chapter (NCBWDC)

Overview: The Sisternomics Empowerment Grant is an economic empowerment initiative that provides financial support to Black women–owned businesses to help strengthen capacity, scale operations, and increase long-term sustainability. The program focuses on fueling entrepreneurial growth, cultivating community impact, and strengthening the ecosystem for Black women business owners throughout Washington, DC.

Geographic Scope

• Required Location: Washington, DC (businesses must operate and be located in Washington, DC)
• Chapter: Metropolitan Washington DC Chapter

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:
• Black women–owned for-profit business
• Annual sales revenue under $500,000
• Legally established and operational for at least one year
• In good standing — tax, legal, and lien-free
• Current DC business license/certificate in good standing
• Proof of business ownership (certificate of incorporation)
• Business must operate in Washington, DC
• Must have proper DC licensing and documentation

Ineligibility

• Nonprofit organizations are NOT eligible
• Previous Sisternomics Empowerment Grant recipients cannot apply again

Allowable Use of Funds

Funds may be used for business growth and sustainability, including (but not limited to):
• Equipment or inventory purchases
• Marketing and branding
• Technology upgrades
• Professional services
• Workforce development
• Operational expansion

Funds may NOT be used for personal expenses.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications are reviewed based on:
• Business viability and sustainability
• Clarity of growth strategy
• Financial readiness
• Community impact
• Alignment with Sisternomics goals

Additional Support

While the primary award is financial, NCBWDC remains committed to connecting entrepreneurs to:
• Visibility opportunities
• Community partnerships
• Future engagement through economic empowerment programming
• Potential recognition events for finalists/awardees

Contact Information

• Email: microgrants@ncbwdc.org
• Address: 1100 13th St NW STE 800, Washington, DC 20005
• Website: ncbwdc.org
• General Contact: info@ncbwdc.org

Key Dates

• Application Opens: March 8, 2026
• Informational Webinar: March 17, 2026
• Application Deadline: April 20, 2026 (11:59 PM)
• Late applications: Will NOT be accepted or eligible for review

Organization Information

• Organization Type: 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
• Mission: Understand that access to capital, visibility, and business support is vital for Black women business owners to thrive, build generational wealth, and impact the community