ATLANTA — The Atlanta billionaire founder of Spanx announced on Instagram that she is giving out $5 million to help female businesswomen struggling during the coronavirus pandemic.
Sara Blakely wrote that the donation will “provide 1,000 female business owners here in the United States with $5,000 in funding each.”
“My hope is that this gift will help alleviate some of the pressures caused by this horrible pandemic. I know first hand what it’s like to be a small business owner,” Blakely wrote in the post.
The grant size is symbolic for Blakely, who started her shapewear company 20 years ago with $5,000 in seed money, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
The woman that are selected will also receive an all-access annual pass to MasterClass, which is an online education platform.
“My hope is that with this funding and mentorship, you’ll find support and comfort during this time," Blakely wrote.
Global Giving is accepting applications now. CLICK HERE to learn more.