Eileen Fisher, the eco-friendly apparel company, provides grants to women-owned businesses. Deadline for its 2008 grants is May 30, 2008.

Each year Eileen Fisher distributes five grants of $10,000 to companies that need funds to grow; at least one of the grants goes to a start-up. Applicants are judged on five criteria:

1. Innovation: degree to which biz takes a new and exciting approach to market;
2. Social consciousness: a commitment to the environment, social justice, the local community, or one’s employees;
3. Plan for sustainability, of company and environment;
4. Clear and constructive use of funds; and
5. Alignment with Eileen Fisher mission.

Among the 2007 grant recipients was To Go Ware, based in Berkeley, CA, which is described as, “A maker of durable, reusable utensiles, using environmentally responsible materials and fair trade practices, that allow for on-the-go convenience when eating or transporting food.”

Contact:

onlinesupport@eileenfisher.com, 800/445-1603

Eileen Fisher [1] Grant Programs

Grant recipient [2] To Go Ware