BMO Launches 2026 Grant Program to Empower Women Entrepreneurs with Financial Support and Resources

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: BMO Celebrates Ambition with New Grant Program

BMO Financial Group, in collaboration with Deloitte, launches the 2026 BMO Celebrating Women grant program, a significant initiative designed to bolster U.S. small businesses that empower women. Running from April 2 to April 23, 2026, this program offers 15 grants of $10,000 each, supporting entrepreneurs as they navigate their business growth strategies. This commitment reflects BMO's recognition of the critical role small businesses play in nurturing vibrant communities, with head of U.S. Personal & Business Banking, Carolyn Booth, underscoring the importance of small business success as a cornerstone for societal development.

The grant program extends beyond just financial assistance. Recipients will benefit from personalized guidance provided by BMO business advisors and gain access to valuable resources such as workshops, seminars, and memberships to various business support organizations. Since 2021, the Celebrating Women grant initiative has allocated $460,000 to 46 small businesses across the United States, demonstrating BMO's ongoing commitment to creating platforms for women entrepreneurs to thrive in a competitive business climate. This initiative marks another step for BMO in its longstanding commitment to fostering equality and advancing economic opportunities for women.

Applicants for the grant must meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring that the support reaches the businesses in genuine need of assistance. This dedication to empowerment aligns with BMO Financial Group’s broader mission to facilitate sustainable economic futures through its comprehensive financial services portfolio. Supporting women's advancement in business not only enhances individual entrepreneurial success but also promotes community development and cohesion, reinforcing BMO's foundational beliefs about the integral role small businesses play in overall economic health.

Alongside this initiative, BMO Financial Group continues to hold a prominent position in the North American banking industry, recognized as the eighth largest bank by assets, with $1.5 trillion as of January 31, 2026. With a history of over 200 years, BMO serves around 13 million clients and remains dedicated to driving positive change and progress across the communities it serves. The 2026 BMO Celebrating Women grant program distinctly highlights the bank's commitment to uplifting female entrepreneurs and fostering a more inclusive economic landscape.