2026 BMO Celebrating Women Grant Program Recipients Announced to Support U.S. Small Businesses
PR Newswire
CHICAGO, July 27, 2026
15 grants of $10,000 each help business owners make real financial progress across BMO's U.S. footprintGrants are designed to fuel product launches, market expansion and job creationRecipients receive access to industry expertise and tailored guidance to support continued growthCHICAGO, July 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- BMO announced today the 2026 U.S. recipients of its BMO Celebrating Women grant program — an initiative that empowers entrepreneurs and small businesses across the United States to scale growth, advance innovation, and strengthen community impact.
This year, BMO awarded $150,000 in grants to 15 businesses supporting the advancement of women across its U.S. footprint, fueling product launches, market expansion and job creation."We're proud to recognize and support businesses that are driving innovation, creating opportunities, and fostering stronger communities across the United States," said Carolyn Booth, Head of U.S. Personal & Business Banking, BMO. "This year's recipients were selected through a competitive application process that evaluated business strength, growth potential, and demonstrated results in supporting the advancement of women. Representing a wide range of industries and regions across the country, these entrepreneurs exemplify the leadership, resilience, and vision that help local economies thrive."The 2026 BMO Celebrating Women grant program U.S. recipients are:Elizabeth Benditt, Balm Box LLC, KansasRhonda Coleman, RCW Strategies, LLC, IllinoisAngela Cruz, Ndoro Healing Arts LLC, New MexicoJennifer Darwin, The Village Postnatal Retreat Center, CaliforniaTemitope Davies, Abitem Innovation LLC, IllinoisShavon Francis, Fleurish Chicago LLC, IllinoisKristian Franklin, Angelic Organics LLC, CaliforniaAngela Garmon, ARG Coaching & Consulting Group LLC, ArizonaDenitra Griffin, Drink Some Water.® LLC, IllinoisSonia Lal, Ivy League Potential LLC, IllinoisDiedra Manns, Monarch Wellness Group Inc., CaliforniaKiley Peters, RAYNE IX LLC, WisconsinShobha Philips, PROCLAIM MADE LLC, CaliforniaKenya Shelton, Destiny Dreamer's Academy, LLC, IndianaDr. Dene' Starks-McGee, DJS Business Solutions, CaliforniaIn addition to $10,000 each, recipients receive a tailored resource package that includes:Coaching from a BMO business advisorProfile opportunities on bmo.com/womenAccess to BMO-hosted workshops, seminars and eventsInvitation to a virtual summit designed to foster connection, learning and peer networking among recipients, industry experts and business leadersPotential membership in organizations and advisory boardsMore information about the grant program can be found here. BMO's commitment to small businesses includes multi-year initiatives to expand access to credit and mentorship, partnerships with accelerators like the WMNfintech partnership with 1871, and programs designed to connect founders with expertise and advice to help them reach their business goals and build stronger communities.About BMO Financial Group BMO Financial Group is the eighth largest bank in North America by assets, with total assets of $1.5 trillion as of April 30, 2026. Serving clients for more than 200 years, BMO provides a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management, global markets and investment banking products and services across Canada, the United States, and select markets globally. BMO is innovating for business value, by deploying and integrating human, digital and artificial intelligence to personalize client experiences, augment teams, and automate its business responsibly. Driven by its purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, BMO is committed to driving positive change in the world, and making progress for a thriving economy, sustainable future, and stronger communities. About BMO for WomenBMO for Women is BMO's flagship program dedicated to supporting businesses, professionals, and investors. Through specialized advice, access to capital, educational opportunities, strategic partnerships and a nationwide advocate network, BMO for Women helps clients grow their businesses, advance their careers, and build long-term financial confidence.
