Microgrant program supports and empowers women-owned small businesses

Women entrepreneurs seeking financial support can now apply for a microgrant for women-owned small businesses on Hawaiʻi Island through the Zonta Club of Hilo.

The goal of the Pay It Forward program is to help women in the community start or expand a business through a microgrant intended to provide assistance.

Each grant will be up to $2,000. Awardees are encouraged to “Pay It Forward” when they are financially able.

“Helping women to succeed and improve our communities advances the mission of Zonta,” said Zonta Club of Hilo President Laurie Higashi. “Pay It Forward is one of the many programs our club offers to empower women and girls through service and advocacy.”

The local chapter of the Zonta Club launched the Pay It Forward program in 2014 with a donation from Nancy Cabral, a Zonta member and owner of Day-Lum Realty Inc.

Cabral’s desire was to encourage other women to achieve financial independence and business success. Since its inception, many other generous donors have contributed to these microgrants for women entrepreneurs.

Applications are being accepted until midnight July 20. The online application is available on the Zonta Club’s website.

The Zonta Club of Hilo was founded in 1950 and is a member of Zonta International, whose mission is to build a better world for women and girls.

For more information, email info@zontahilo.org.