huffingtonpost.com - As of 2012, there are nearly 10 million women-owned businesses in the United States. Since 2007, that's a 26.8% increase. If you're one of those businesses, there are some small business lending options out there just for you. Beyond using credit cards, personal savings, retirement accounts, and reaching out to friends and family, there are many ways to get the capital you need to run your business.

Grants are highly sought after because they're not required to be repaid. Just because grants have limited availability doesn't mean you shouldn't consider them. The Small Business Administration (SBA) and other organizations provide a number of grants specifically to women-owned businesses including:

The Amber Grant: Founded in 1998, this program was created to honor a young woman who passed away before accomplishing her entrepreneurial dreams. The small grants, ranging from $500 to $2,500 help micro-entrepreneurs get their start in business so they can go after larger investments later.

Founded in 1998, this program was created to honor a young woman who passed away before accomplishing her entrepreneurial dreams. The small grants, ranging from $500 to $2,500 help micro-entrepreneurs get their start in business so they can go after larger investments later. Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant Program: This private organization awards five grants per year, to 100% women-owned businesses with founding principles of innovation, sustainability, and social consciousness.