Did you know: four out of ten businesses in the USA are owned by women? Women in the workplace have seen incredible growth in influence and financial power in the last three decades.

This is due to numerous factors, one being the availability of grants for women starting a business. So what are the best grants currently available for women? 

Keep reading for our guide to the top grants to apply for if you’re a woman starting a business in the USA.

1. The Girlboss Foundation Grant

Starting a business can be extremely challenging, and the creative industry is amongst the hardest field of all. Luckily, funds such as the Girlboss Foundation exist which help out women working in design, music, and the arts.

This grant is specifically for female-identifying business owners. Funding of $15,000 is available, and a thorough business plan is necessary to secure this competitive award.

2. The Halstead Grant

Next, if you’re wondering how to start a business for women, look no further than The Halstead Grant. This is for women looking to break into the jewelry industry.

Halstead offers up to $7,500 as well as an additional $1,000 to go towards purchasing Halstead jewelry supplies. Applicants must submit a portfolio and answer a series of questions relating to their business plan.

Those who are unsuccessful will receive constructive feedback about their business model, so this grant is well worth applying for.

3. The Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards

While there’s no such thing as free money to start a business, the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards are the next best thing. Funds of up to $100,000 are available to successful applicants, as well as $30,000 to finalists.

If you’re looking to start a home care for independent living business, this would be a great option. Finalists also receive mentoring, access to workshops, and incredible networking opportunities.

4. Amber Grant Foundation

Another interesting opportunity for women starting a business is the Amber Grant Foundation. While a $15 application fee is required, $10,000 is awarded to a different women-owned business every month.

Then, one of the twelve grant-winners receives an additional $25,000 at the end of the year. This is a great option because you can apply throughout the year, and there’s no expectation that the money will be paid back.

5. Ms. Foundation Grants

Finally, those wondering how to start a minority woman-owned business should take a look at Ms. Foundation Grants. These grants specifically help businesses run by women, doing good for women.

For example, if you’re looking to establish a business addressing reproductive health, violence against women, or affordable childcare, this might be for you.

Those Are Some of the Best Grants for Women Starting a Business

We’ve now seen that there are plenty of options when it comes to applying for business grants. Make sure to do plenty of research into the requirements of each grant, and only apply to the ones you qualify for.

If you found this discussion of grants for women starting a business helpful, why not take a look at our other finance management posts?

Are you in need of emergency dentistry services?

When healthy emergencies strike, it’s always good to have a plan. Unfortunately, most people associate “emergencies” with going to the hospital. It’s less common to know what to do when you have an emergency with your teeth.

Fortunately, an emergency dentist can take care of most issues. In some cases, the work they do may be temporary. But at least it can hold you over until you can see your regular dentist.

Here’s more on what emergency dentistry is and why it might be worth the cost.

What Is Emergency Dentistry?

As the name implies, an emergency dentist is a dental professional that handles patients who need immediate care.

When you break a bone or get incredibly sick, you go to the hospital. But if you crack a tooth, the hospital can’t do anything for you. This is when you might visit turn to emergency dentistry services.

Like other forms of emergency health specialists, an emergency dentist is usually available outside of normal working hours. This isn’t always the case, but you might be able to schedule an appointment early in the morning or night.

You may have to pay an additional fee to be treated, though.

*Keep in mind, this article is not meant to serve as a substitute for medical advice for your oral health. Speak to a dentistry professional to get advice for your specific situation.

When to See an Emergency Dentist

There are several cases that require emergency dentistry work.

Here are some common examples:

• Cracked, broken, or abscessed teeth 
• Knocked out tooth
• Chipped tooth
• Tooth out of alignment
• Severe tooth pain

Basically, if you’ve lost or damaged a tooth or have immense pain, you might want to call a local dentist. The same goes for if there’s excessive bleeding or a severe infection in the mouth.

In some cases, time is of the essence for your trip to the dentist. If, for example, one of your teeth is knocked out, call right away. Put the tooth in a cup of milk and try to be seen sooner rather than later. This could make the difference between you keeping your tooth.

Type in “emergency dental near me” for all the options in your area.

What Isn’t a Dental Emergency

Unfortunately, oral care isn’t completely cut and dry. A lot can go wrong with our teeth. But that doesn’t mean everything is an emergency.

There are many instances where it’s better to wait to see your primary dentist than to pay for emergency dentistry. Examples include:

• A loose crown
• Slight tooth pain in the mouth/jaw
• Minor tooth repair
• Minor tooth chipping

Your primary dentist can handle these incidents. You’ll save money by waiting an extra day or two. Plus, it’s more likely that they’ll be able to accept your dental insurance (which only about 50 percent of American adults have).

Of course, reserve your best judgment if it will be several days before you can see them or if you think it will get worse if you wait. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your oral health.

Emergency Dental Cost

Just like going to the ER, emergency dental costs will be higher than a regular trip to get your teeth cleaned. And if they don’t take your health insurance, you may have to pay for any work you get done out of pocket.

A good baseline to expect for visiting an emergency dentist is between $75 and $100. If you need a tooth pulled, it could be between $600 and $800, depending on where you live.

At a regular dentist’s office, crowns range between $1200 and $1400. Expect to pay at least this at an emergency dental office near you, plus more if you’re being seen promptly or outside working hours.

Outside of the typical nine to five workday, fees are likely to increase. Ask when you call to make sure you can afford the visit. Some emergency dentists use companies like Care Credit to make financing an option.

It’s also not a bad idea to set some money aside each month for dental work. Even if it’s not an emergency, having a little cash on hand for your oral health is always a smart move.

How to Avoid Dental Emergencies

Avoiding dental emergencies is about being proactive. Taking care of your mouth and developing good hygiene habits can prevent bad things from happening altogether.

See your dentist regularly to get your teeth cleaned and checked. He or she will be able to tell you what type of routine work you need. Getting fillings done when they’re required could prevent a tooth from cracking or chipping later on.

Your dentist can also warn you about signs of tooth decay, gingivitis, or periodontal disease. Left untreated, these things can quickly turn into dentistry emergencies.

Outside of these tips, be sure to avoid physical contact to the face and wear a mouth guard if you’re playing sports. Lifestyle considerations come into play here.

Should You See an Emergency Dentist?

Time is of the essence when it comes to emergency dentistry. If you need work done, make the phone call as soon as possible to find out your options. 

Bleeding, severe infection or pain, or a damaged tooth (cracked, chipped, abscessed, etc.) are all considered emergencies. Slight pain or swelling or a loose crown are not. You can probably wait to see your regular dentist and will save money by doing so.

For more tips on saving money, check out the rest of our blog!

In late December 2019, a novel coronavirus was identified in Wuhan, China. Since then, all of our lives have changed dramatically for the last year or so.

While vaccines are rolling out throughout the world, it’s still important for you to stay safe by socially distancing and wearing face masks whenever you’re out. But are you wearing these masks correctly?

Read on to find out how to properly wear a face mask so both you and everyone around you are protected.

Types of Face Masks

First of all, there are several different types of face masks out there. They include:

• Single-use, disposable
• Cloth
• KN95
• N95

If you’re buying KN95 masks, you should take a look at these things to consider. Otherwise, for all intents and purposes, this article will cover the use of disposable and cloth masks since those are the most commonly used face masks.

Read on to learn the right way to wear a face mask.

Before Putting on Your Mask

Most people don’t give a second thought to putting on their masks, but it’s actually one of the most important steps in wearing a mask. So it’s vital that you know how to do it properly. Otherwise, you’ll render your mask ineffective.

First, wash your hands with warm water and soap. If you aren’t able to, at least clean your hands with some hand sanitizer prior to touching your face mask.

If you’re using disposable masks, remove one from the box and make sure there are no holes or tears. Then, determine which side is the top, as that’ll tell you which way to orient the mask before putting it on. The top will have a stiffer part in the middle, which is supposed to go over your nose.

You’ll also have to determine which side faces out. In most cases, the white side of the mask will touch your face while the colored side of the mask will be on the outside.

The next step will be determined by which type of mask you’re using.

Putting on Your Mask

If you’re using masks with ear loops, carefully grab each one and place them around your ears.

For those using masks with ties, grab the edges of the mask and place the mask over your nose. Then, put the ties on the crown of your head and tie them in a knot.

Lastly, if you’re using masks with headbands, hold the mask at nose level. Pull the top strap on the crown of your head. Then, pull the bottom strap over and let it rest at the nape of your neck.

Once your face mask is secured on your face, pinch the nose piece so it eliminates any air pockets. At this point, if you’re using a mask with ties, you can tie the bottom ties at the nape of your neck.

Now that the mask is secured on your nose, pull the mask down so it covers both your mouth and chin.

Wearing Your Mask Outside

Whenever you’re outside wearing your mask, there are certain measures you need to take so that it remains as effective as possible.

The general rule of thumb is that once you put on your mask, you shouldn’t touch it again until you need to take it off for good. So this means you should never pull it down to do anything. If you do, then you need to change to a new mask, whether it’s disposable or cloth.

Over time, you’ll be breathing onto the mask, which adds moisture to it. If you feel like your mask is moist or wet, then you’ll also need to change your mask. The same goes for if it gets rained on or some liquids have splashed on it.

Always ensure that your nose is covered at all times, as well as your mouth. If there are any gaps in your mask, droplets can both escape and get into your mask. So if your nose/mouth becomes uncovered or you notice gaps in your mask, you’ll need to put on a new mask.

Taking off Your Mask

To avoid contamination and infection, you should know the proper way to take off your face masks too.

Like with putting on a mask, you’ll need to first wash your hands. Or use hand sanitizer if you don’t have access to running water and soap.

Do not touch the front of your mask while you’re taking it off, as that’s where all the bacteria will be. Instead, use the ear loops, ties, or bands. Either lift these things off your face to get the mask off, untie, or lift the ties and bands off your head.

With disposable masks, throw them into the trash can immediately. Don’t try to reuse them, as they’re already contaminated.

With cloth masks, either wash them by hand right away or put them in your laundry basket. If you opt for the latter option, we suggest that you have a separate pile for contaminated items, just to be safe.

After you’ve done all this, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer again to remove any contaminants.

Know How to Properly Wear a Face Mask

By knowing how to properly wear a face mask, you’re not only keeping yourself safe, but others as well. So remember to refrain from touching your mask, keep it over your nose, and change it as soon as it gets moist.

If you remain alert about the state of your mask and are diligent about changing and/or cleaning it, then you’ll be doing your part in fighting against this deadly pandemic!

Now that you know how to wear a face mask, get more life tips by reading our other blog articles now.

They say the only thing more exciting than becoming a parent is becoming a grandparent! You get to enjoy all the fun and love of a child, but you get to hand them back when they get grumpy or fill their diaper.

It can be hard to know what to buy to celebrate the good news with your parents. Even if they don’t expect a gift, it’s a nice sentiment to give them something to mark the occasion.

If you are expecting and are looking for some first grandchild gift ideas, you’re in luck. Keep reading to see some of the best and sweetest gifts you can give to your parents!

1. Framed Baby Hand and Foot Print 

One thing that grandparents are fully aware of is just how quickly time flies after a baby is born. One minute you’re holding a tiny newborn, the next you’re waving them off to their first day of school. Before you know it, your child is having a little one of their own.

You can immortalize those precious early days with a framed hand and the footprint of the new baby. It’s something they can cherish as the child grows up, and they’ll never forget just how tiny they once were.

2. Grandchild Sleepover Supplies

If you’re looking for practical gifts for new grandparents, you could gift them a bunch of items for the first time they stay the night! Bed linens, a pacifier, storybooks, and their own milk bottle are just a few ideas!

You could even package them in a sleepover bag and gift them to the grandparents like that. It’ll build excitement not just for the baby’s arrival but for all of the moments they have to look forward to.

3. Customized License Places 

If you’re looking for really cool, unique baby gifts for new grandparents, check out these grandpa license plates! With your family name in the middle, you can add everyone in the family to their own license plate, including the littlest member.

With up to 10 names on the plates, there’s plenty of room for the whole family.

4. Grandmother and Grandfather Matching Shirts

Any grandad would proudly wear a t-shirt declaring his new title. A fashion-conscious grandmother may take a little more convincing, but this doesn’t mean she’s any less proud.

If your parents are fun-loving and don’t take themselves too seriously, you could buy them matching t-shirts that they can wear together for a photoshoot with the new baby!

5. Grandmother Keepsake Bracelet

If a graphic tee is something you can imagine the new grandmother will use as a dishtowel within a few weeks, you could get something a little more discreet for her to wear that shows off that she has become a grandmother.

A bracelet with an engraving of the baby’s name and/or date of birth is a wonderful gift for any grandmother-to-be and one that she will truly cherish.

6. Pregnancy Reveal Puzzle

Expectant parents are always trying to come up with new ways to announce the amazing news, and this is a super cute and fun way to break it to the soon-to-be grandparents!

If you haven’t told your parents that you’re expecting yet, you could buy them a puzzle with the announcement on it. It’s up to you to decide how difficult you want the puzzle to be – make them work for it!

7. Cupboard and Drawer Locks

If you want to be a little cryptic in your pregnancy reveal, why not buy some magnetic cupboards and drawer locks for their house?

They might take a minute to figure out why on earth you’ve bought them babyproofing items, but the look on their faces when they finally realize will be absolutely priceless. 

These small locks will also come in very handy in protecting the little one’s hands and fingers from cupboard doors and the contents of kitchen drawers.

8. Books on Being a Grandparent

There are some amazing resources out there for parents and grandparents alike.

While being a grandparent is undoubtedly loads of fun, some will want to make sure they are intentional with how they treat their grandkids and how they can make the most of the time they have with them.

Grandparenting by Pam Siegel

This is a wonderful book that teaches grandparents to start to relive their youth through their grandkids. Taking inspiration from the younger generation can bring new vitality to life, so your parents will love what this book teaches.

Grandparenting With Grace by Larry E. McCall

If your parents are religious or like to pray, this book is a fantastic resource that will both inspire and encourage your parents to be the best grandparents they can be.

It also provides practical advice to allow grandparents to be a truly positive influence on their grandchildren’s lives.

Nanaville by Anna Quindlen

This New York Times Bestseller is a moving account of being a grandmother, and many see it as required reading for new grandparents. It is inspiring and emotionally engaging, and it will give your parents a little window into what to expect as they embark on this new journey of grandparenthood.

Some of the Best First Grandchild Gift Ideas

Hopefully, you’ll have found some great first grandchild gift ideas in this article. Everyone has a different relationship with their parents, so you know best what they’ll like.

Whether you get something sentimental, practical, or funny, you can be sure that the new grandparents will be over the moon and the gift will get them even more excited about the little one’s arrival.

Check out the family life section of the blog for more information and advice on everything to do with the family!

Some people think that raising a child is one of the easiest things that you can do. After all, you only need to clothe, feed, and change babies until they can do it themselves, right?

Raising a child can be challenging, but we’re here to provide you with a brief guide that’s going to help make things much smoother as you stare at the never-ending parenting checklist you’ve created for yourself.

Practice Patience

There will be times, especially as foster parents, where your patience will be tested, and you feel as if you’re about to explode. When you’re raising children, ensure that you practice patience.

Remember, children are simply children, and sometimes that means that they will try to push boundaries now and then.

Stick With the Essentials

When you’re having a baby and raising a child, it’s easy to get caught up in purchasing everything that looks cute. We recommend that you stick to buying only baby essentials.

During the younger years of a child’s life, they won’t necessarily care about the stickers you put on the walls or the color of the nursery set you purchased. Sticking to the essentials will reduce the clutter in your home and save you money in the long run.

Self-Care Is a Must

Often, parents get caught up in raising their children that they forget to take care of themselves. This causes relationship issues, and parents begin to lose their identity.

If you’re not taking care of yourself, it will show how you take care of your children. To be the best parent you can be, you’ve got to make time for yourself, even if that means taking a longer shower than you usually do.

Communicate With Your Kids

Many children say they don’t talk to their parents because they don’t listen. When your children attempt to communicate with you, take the time to give them your undivided attention.

Listening to your children helps them feel heard and increases the likelihood that you’ll be the first one they turn to when something happens in their lives.

Teach Kids About Emotions

One crucial way to help your children as they get older is to teach them how to manage the emotions they feel. Teach your children what each of their emotions means. And that it’s okay to feel the way that they feel.

Being aware of your emotions and how to manage them will help your child as they continue to grow and interact with other people.

Raising a Child: It Takes a Village

Raising a child isn’t a walk in the park, but it’s one of the world’s most rewarding feelings. Remember to practice patience with your children, and don’t forget to take care of yourself and your relationship.

If you found this post useful, don’t hesitate to check out some of the other posts we’ve published for readers like you.