EmpowerHER Entrepreneurial Grant

The EmpowerHER Entrepreneurial Grant is an annually awarded grant dedicated to uplifting black women entrepreneurs in Palm Beach County. Inspired by the legacy of Sandra M. Cameron, a Jamaican immigrant who moved to the area in the 1990s, built a successful mortgage brokerage, and later founded her own nonprofit to serve the community, this grant seeks to empower the next generation of black female business leaders.

Each year, three deserving entrepreneurs will receive a financial award, along with access to free business planning and consulting services from experienced business analysts. The grant not only provides financial support but also offers the tools and guidance necessary to help these entrepreneurs build and sustain thriving businesses, continuing Sandra Cameron’s mission of community empowerment and economic opportunity.

The Sandra M. Cameron Foundation is proud to celebrate our February EmpowerHER Grant winner, Janiyah, a dedicated nail technician from Delray Beach, Florida. Through this initiative, Janiyah received $1,000 toward growing her business and one full year of free business consulting. With this support, she was able to attend a professional certification school—an important step that has elevated both her skills and confidence as an entrepreneur. Janiyah’s passion for her craft and her commitment to excellence make her a standout in the beauty industry.

In addition to financial and consulting support, the foundation provided branding assistance to help her develop a professional image that reflects her creativity and professionalism. With continued business planning guidance, Janiyah is now preparing to rent her own space and expand her services independently. Her journey reflects the core mission of the EmpowerHER Grant: to equip Black women entrepreneurs with the resources they need to thrive. We encourage everyone to support her growing business—check out her Instagram to see her work and book an appointment. Janiyah’s success is just beginning, and we’re honored to be part of her story.

Instagram: Secrecy Kklaws

Website: Booking

Introducing our 2025 grant winner

Requirements & Specifics

Three applicants will be selected as winners of the EmpowerHER Entrepreneurial Grant to support their journey as Black women entrepreneurs in West Palm Beach. The top recipient, chosen as the main winner, will receive a grant of $500 to $1,000 in startup funds, along with a full year of free business planning and consulting services provided by Bridgewater Strategic Consulting. This comprehensive support is designed to guide the winner through the crucial stages of launching and growing a successful business.

Additionally, two other winners will be awarded personalized business planning services and a year of consulting from Bridgewater, ensuring they have the tools and mentorship necessary for business growth. All winners will be personally selected by Sandra M. Cameron, and the announcements will be made in early February 2025, marking the beginning of a year filled with opportunity, empowerment, and growth.

Applicants must be:

  • A female of African descent.

  • Plan to do business or are currently doing business in Palm Beach County.

  • Have a business idea or have been doing business up to 1 year or less.

  • Must donate at least to foundation using button below.