Women Entrepreneurs Receive Eileen Fisher Business Grants

Eileen Fisher is a self-made entrepreneur and well-known designer of upscale women's clothing. She started her company in 1984 with just $350 and only four garments. Today, she operates 58 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with corporate offices in Irvington, New York. She is an inspiration to women entrepreneurs and is dedicated to helping other women start their own businesses.

Nine years ago, Eileen started the Eileen Fisher Business Grant program. The organization awards grants to women-owned businesses that not only are successful but are conscious of the environment. Five recipients each year receive a $12,500 grant to use for their businesses. In addition, they are invited to attend a two-day EILEEN FISHER conference in New York City in the spring where they receive recognition for their achievements.

The grant program started in 2004 with one grant of $20,000. Since then, five women-owned businesses each year are recipients of the grants. They are judged on how their business has positively impacted the health and environment of others. Examples include foods made without steroids or antibiotics, products that require less packaging that reduces landfill waste, and consignment shops that recycle clothing.

Eileen believes in helping struggling women entrepreneurs, recalling how many women helped her in her career. The grant program is a way for her to give back and help others be successful.

For more information, visit www.eileenfisher.com/grants