Whether you’re seeking technical training or are ready to start a business of your own, you may want to apply for grants to help get you on your way. Many grants are available through non-profit organizations for entrepreneurs, as well as through states such as Florida, Minnesota, Virgina and more. The federal government has more information on financial aid of single mothers, including a searchable Small Business Loans and Grants Tool. And don’t forget that if starting your business requires you to attend school again, you may also qualify for educational grants.

• PeaChic. As part of its commitment to women in business, this magazine, launched in 2010, offers small grants of $500 to $1,000 to help women start or expand a business. This may not be a huge amount of money, but it’s a good source of financial aid. PeaChic offers single moms money to help cover expenses such as supplies, marketing, or other necessary parts of making a business succeed.
• Huggies MomInspired. Twice a year, the diaper giant awards grants of $1,000-$15,000 to support innovative products or start-up businesses. Ideas don’t have to be diaper-related, although the winners so far have been primarily parent- and child-related. Although this is not specifically geared towards offering financial help for single moms, it’s definitely a place to find money for your business.
• American Association of University Women. This national network of individuals and institutions offers several different grant opportunities and financial assistance for single mothers, including a Career Development Grant for graduate studies and technical training and a Community Action Grant for projects that foster equity for girls and women.
• Small Business Administration. Although it does not offer grants for single moms, or any individuals for that matter, the Small Business Administration’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership is an excellent source of information on how to start and finance a business.