What I’d Learn First If I Had to Start Over in Tech (No Degree, No Budget)

If I had to start over in tech today - no degree, no fancy laptop, and no budget - I wouldn’t waste time on fluff or overwhelm myself with a hundred different tools. I’d focus on the foundational skills, free resources, and mindset that actually build confidence and momentum. Whether you're pivoting careers, building something of your own, or just curious about where to begin - this is the roadmap I wish someone had handed me.

Here’s what I’d do (and what you can start doing right now).

💡 Step 1: Get Clear on What “Tech” Means to You

“Tech” is a massive industry. Before jumping in, I’d take 30 minutes to journal or Google around and explore:

• Do I want to build websites?

• Am I curious about UX/UI design, data, or automation?

• Do I like visual creation or solving logical problems?

🔑 Why this matters: Clarity gives your learning purpose. You don’t have to have it all figured out - but knowing your interests helps cut out the noise.

👩🏽‍💻 Step 2: Learn the Core Web Building Blocks (Free)

If I was starting from scratch, I’d begin with:

• HTML – the structure of web pages

• CSS – the styling (colors, fonts, layouts)

• JavaScript (basics) – simple interactivity

Free platforms I’d use:

• freeCodeCamp.org

• The Odin Project

• W3Schools

• Frontend Mentor

I’d spend 20–30 mins/day practicing. Nothing fancy. Just real progress over perfection.

🔧 Step 3: Build Small Projects, Not Just Take Courses

Courses are helpful, but projects teach you how to think and solve problems. I’d build:

• A personal landing page (like a digital business card)

• A simple “about me” site

• A mock product page or portfolio

🛠 Pro tip: Start with CodePen.io or use the free tier of Wix to practice drag-and-drop + code edits side by side.

🌐 Step 4: Learn No-Code Tools Too

I’d learn Wix, Notion, or Canva Websites - tools that help you build fast without needing to code everything.

Why? Because businesses are looking for people who can help them launch, not just code.

No-code = faster delivery, better client communication, and more portfolio pieces.

🧠 Step 5: Work on Mindset, Not Just Skillset

Tech can feel isolating and intimidating - especially if you don’t see yourself represented. Here’s what I’d tell myself:

• You don’t need to be “naturally techy.” Practice wins.

• You belong in this space, even if you’re still learning.

• Find community — it changes everything.

📢 Join spaces like:

• Women Who Code

• Black Girls Code

• Tech Twitter & YouTube creators who reflect your vibe

📸 Step 6: Document the Journey Publicly

If I could do it over, I’d start sharing my journey online early - even if I only had one follower.

Documenting your learning builds community, shows growth, and opens doors. You don’t have to be an expert to add value.

Use Instagram, LinkedIn, or TikTok to say:

• What you’re building

• What you just learned

• What you’re struggling with

Your voice will attract your people.

📎 Bonus: Tools I’d Bookmark From Day One

• VS Code – Free code editor

• Canva – For easy graphics and mockups

• Notion – Organize your learning + projects

• Figma (free tier) – For UI/UX practice

💬 Final Word: Start Before You're “Ready”

No degree? No problem. No money? You don’t need it to start. No clear direction yet? You’ll figure it out as you move.

What matters is that you start.

Take 30 minutes today to:

• Pick one platform

• Learn one skill

• Build one simple thing

That’s it. That’s how this journey begins — and trust me, it’s worth it.

🛠 Tools to Help You Show Up Online with Purpose

📺 Want design and strategy tips in real time?

Subscribe to Taylor The Creator Studio on YouTube - where I share tutorials, audits, and strategy sessions to help you grow with confidence.

📘 Free & Premium Digital Resources to Support Your Growth:

• ✨ The Launch Roadmap – A step-by-step guide to starting your brand or website project with clarity

• 🧠 Branding Mini-Guide – Define your visual identity and connect with your ideal audience

• 🔧 Website Maintenance Checklist – Keep your site updated, secure, and running smooth

• 💼 Business Marketing Homework – Build a real marketing plan, not just to-do lists

• 💬 Digital Marketing 101 Course (Free Sample) – Get the basics of intentional digital marketing

• 📎 The Agency Pamphlet – Learn what it’s like to work with TTC on a full-service project

  
  

🎨 Need Creative Support?

Whether you're launching a brand, auditing your website, or upgrading your digital presence, we're here to help:

→ Book a Free Discovery Call

→ Explore Design & Strategy Services

→ Visit the TTC Shop

Monthly Grant Roundup: October 2025 Edition

Each month, I gather funding opportunities to help entrepreneurs, creatives, and small business owners access the support they need to grow and thrive. But before we dive in, let’s quickly define what a grant is - just in case you’re new to the game.

👉🏽 A grant is free funding awarded by governments, organizations, or foundations to support individuals or businesses - and unlike loans, grants don’t have to be paid back. 🙌🏽

Whether you're launching your first product, scaling your services, or simply need a little financial breathing room, these grants could be your next big opportunity.

Ready to secure the bag? Let’s dive in. 💼💰

This list is for those funding opportunities designed for mission-led entrepreneurs, creatives, small business owners, and community changemakers. Whether you’re looking to grow your brand, fund a passion project, or simply keep your business moving forward, these grants and contests are selected for accessibility, alignment, and impact.

From low-barrier microgrants to larger awards that support visibility and growth, this roundup is here to help you secure the bag — without the burnout. Let’s dive into what’s available this month!

1. Galaxy Grant (Hidden Star)

• Amount: Approximately $2,950 (may vary)

• Deadline: October 31, 2025

• Who It’s For: Women and minority small business owners

• Why It Matters: Quick, low-barrier application process; great starting point for early-stage businesses. Often worth the effort because it takes just a minute to apply.Tech.coReddit

2. Hustler's MicroGrant

• Amount: $1,000 monthly

• Deadline: Applies on a rolling monthly basis—even through October

• Who It’s For: U.S.-based small business owners and creatives

• Why It Matters: Fast, consistent monthly funding for hustle-story business owners. A great option if you need quick energy for your project.LegalZoomEssence

3. Awesome Foundation Grants

• Amount: $1,000

• Deadline: Varies by chapter (often rolling)

• Who It’s For: Anyone with a creative project or idea

• Why It Matters: No-strings-attached microgrant—perfect for testing a creative concept.LegalZoom

4. Winning Women MicroGrant (Hue Capital)

• Amount: $1,000

• Deadline: Typically has October deadlines—based on past trends

• Who It’s For: Women entrepreneurs with product-focused businesses

• Why It Matters: A focused opportunity for product-based women-led businesses, especially those creating tangible or digital products.Tech.co

5. Marshalls “Good Stuff” Accelerator

• Amount: $5,000 + peer coaching and workshop access

• Deadline: October 31 (based on previous years)

• Who It’s For: Female business owners across the U.S.

• Why It Matters: Blends grant funding with community and coaching—adds depth beyond the money.Tech.co

6. Skip $10,000 Grant (Skip Platform)

• Amount: $10,000

• Deadline: Typically applies during October

• Who It’s For: U.S. entrepreneurs with Skip Plus membership

• Why It Matters: Larger-dollar grant; open to a wide range of business types if you're already engaged in the platform.Tech.co

7. Grants for BIPOC Women, Women of Color, Small Businesses (from GrantWatch)

• Amount: Ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on specific opportunity

• Deadline: October-specific programs, varies by grant

• Who It’s For: BIPOC women, women of color, U.S.-based small business owners

• Why It Matters: Directly supports entrepreneurs who are often overlooked by mainstream funding.https://www.grantwatch.com

Quick Snapshot

Grant Name	Amount	Deadline	Why It Matters
Galaxy Grant	~$2,950	Oct 31	Fast, low-barrier entry for minority founders
Hustler’s MicroGrant	$1,000/month	Rolling	Monthly quick funding
Awesome Foundation	$1,000	Varies	No-strings-attached creative funding
Winning Women MicroGrant	$1,000	Oct (typical)	For product-focused women founders
Marshall Good Stuff Accelerator	$5,000 + coaching	Oct 31	Funding + community support
Skip $10K Grant	$10,000	Oct (typical)	High-impact funding for engaged users
BIPOC/Women of Color Grant Opportunities	$1K–$5K	Varies	Tailored diversity-focused support

Pro Tips for Applying:

1. Choose two that match your mission + readiness — go deep instead of spreading too thin.

2. Mark deadlines on your calendar to avoid last-minute rushes.

3. Craft clear, personal narratives — especially for grants with storytelling appeal.

4. Track submissions to follow up, refine, or reapply.

   
   

🛠 Tools to Help You Show Up Online with Purpose

Want design and strategy tips in real time?

Subscribe to Taylor The Creator Studio on YouTube — where I share tutorials, audits, and strategy sessions to help you grow with confidence.

Free & Premium Digital Resources to Support Your Growth:

• ✨ The Launch Roadmap – A step-by-step guide to starting your brand or website project with clarity

• 🧠 Branding Mini-Guide – Define your visual identity and connect with your ideal audience

• 🔧 Website Maintenance Checklist – Keep your site updated, secure, and running smooth

• 💼 Business Marketing Homework – Build a real marketing plan, not just to-do lists

• 💬 Digital Marketing 101 Course (Free Sample) – Get the basics of intentional digital marketing

• 📎 The Agency Pamphlet – Learn what it’s like to work with TTC on a full-service project

Need Creative Support?

Whether you're launching a brand, auditing your website, or upgrading your digital presence, we're here to help:

→ Book a Free Discovery Call

→ Explore Design & Strategy Services

→ Visit the TTC Shop

Monthly Grant Roundup: September 2025 Edition

Monthly Grant Roundup: September 2025 Edition

Each month, I gather funding opportunities to help entrepreneurs, creatives, and small business owners access the support they need to grow and thrive. But before we dive in, let’s quickly define what a grant is — just in case you’re new to the game.

👉🏽 A grant is free funding awarded by governments, organizations, or foundations to support individuals or businesses — and unlike loans, grants don’t have to be paid back. 🙌🏽

Whether you're launching your first product, scaling your services, or simply need a little financial breathing room, these grants could be your next big opportunity.

Ready to secure the bag? Let’s dive in. 💼💰

This list is for those funding opportunities designed for mission-led entrepreneurs, creatives, small business owners, and community changemakers. Whether you’re looking to grow your brand, fund a passion project, or simply keep your business moving forward, these grants and contests are selected for accessibility, alignment, and impact.

From low-barrier microgrants to larger awards that support visibility and growth, this roundup is here to help you secure the bag — without the burnout. Let’s dive into what’s available this month!

1. Amber Grant (WomensNet)

• Amount: $10,000 monthly + $25,000 year-end grant

• Deadline: Rolling through September

• Who It's For: Women-owned businesses in the U.S. or Canada

• Why It Matters: With a short and straightforward application, this is one of the most accessible grants for women founders. Perfect if you're just launching or scaling. Her Gov SummitCoCountant

2. AT&T #ShesConnected Small Business Contest

• Amount: $50,000 grand prize + AT&T service and a feature; $5,000 for runners-up

• Deadline: September 30, 2025

• Who It's For: U.S.-based businesses with 50 or fewer employees

• Why It Matters: Funding plus national visibility—great for businesses ready to tell their story. Her Gov Summitgrowthmoney.us

3. Galaxy Grant (Hidden Star)

• Amount: $2,950

• Deadline: September 30, 2025

• Who It's For: Women and minority small business owners

• Why It Matters: Low-barrier entry, quick turnaround—ideal for funding small improvements or projects. Her Gov Summitgrowthmoney.us

4. DoorDash Local Business Disaster Relief Fund

• Amount: $5,000 to $15,000

• Deadline: September 29, 2025

• Who It's For: Brick-and-mortar businesses in the U.S. that have experienced disaster-related losses

• Why It Matters: Real support when it counts most—perfect for physical businesses recovering from hardship. U.S. Chamber of CommerceHer Gov SummitElgin Area Chamber of Commerce

5. High Five Grant for Mom Entrepreneurs

• Amount: Up to $25,000

• Deadline: September 1–30, 2025

• Who It's For: Moms in business across the U.S. and Canada

• Why It Matters: Recognizes the balancing act of motherhood and entrepreneurship—plus, generous funding. CoCountantthewhitsdompress.net

6. NASE Growth Grants

• Amount: Up to $4,000

• Deadline: Next quarter ends September 30, 2025

• Who It's For: NASE members (membership required)

• Why It Matters: Great for pros investing in marketing, training, or hiring—especially if you're already part of NASE. Her Gov SummitU.S. Chamber of Commerce

7. Foot Locker Foundation Community Empowerment Program

• Amount: $25,000–$100,000

• Deadline: September 30, 2025

• Who It's For: 501(c)(3) nonprofits doing youth programming in select cities (like Atlanta, Chicago, DC, etc.)

• Why It Matters: Large funding for grassroots community impact—especially around youth development. corporategrantsguide.comElgin Area Chamber of Commerce

8. Nearby & Local Funding Highlights

Looking for location-based or niche grants? Check out Corporate Grants Guide for opportunities like BWXT Corporate Giving (Deadline: 9/30), PPL Education Grants (9/15), and Amazon Community Funds (9/25). corporategrantsguide.com

Quick Snapshot

Grant Name	Amount	Deadline	Why It Matters
Amber Grant	$10K/month +25K	Rolling	Simple, accessible funding for women founders
AT&T #ShesConnected	$50K + extras	Sept 30	Funding + visibility for small businesses
Galaxy Grant	$2,950	Sept 30	Quick-win money with low application barrier
DoorDash Relief Fund	$5–15K	Sept 29	Crisis recovery for brick-and-mortar shops
High Five Grant for Mom Entrepreneurs	Up to $25K	Sept 1–30	Funds tailored for mompreneurs
NASE Growth Grants	Up to $4K	Sept 30	Marketing/hiring support for NASE members
Foot Locker Foundation Youth Programming	$25–100K	Sept 30	Large-scale funding for nonprofit impact
Local/Corporate Grants (e.g., BWXT, Amazon Funds)	Varies	Mid–Late Sept	Region-specific, often overlooked opportunities

Pro Tips for Applying:

1. Prioritize Grants That Match Your Mission — Don’t chase money that doesn’t fit your work.

2. Track All Deadlines — Many close by the end of September.

3. Use Simple, Clear Language — Especially for grants with tough competition.

4. Apply to 2–3 That Fit Timing + Alignment — You’re more likely to win when focused.

5. Ask for Help — Want help drafting your pitch or creating a deadline reminder? I’ve got your back.

   
   

🛠 Tools to Help You Show Up Online with Purpose

Want design and strategy tips in real time?

Subscribe to Taylor The Creator Studio on YouTube — where I share tutorials, audits, and strategy sessions to help you grow with confidence.

Free & Premium Digital Resources to Support Your Growth:

• ✨ The Launch Roadmap – A step-by-step guide to starting your brand or website project with clarity

• 🧠 Branding Mini-Guide – Define your visual identity and connect with your ideal audience

• 🔧 Website Maintenance Checklist – Keep your site updated, secure, and running smooth

• 💼 Business Marketing Homework – Build a real marketing plan, not just to-do lists

• 💬 Digital Marketing 101 Course (Free Sample) – Get the basics of intentional digital marketing

• 📎 The Agency Pamphlet – Learn what it’s like to work with TTC on a full-service project

Need Creative Support?

Whether you're launching a brand, auditing your website, or upgrading your digital presence, we're here to help:

→ Book a Free Discovery Call

→ Explore Design & Strategy Services

→ Visit the TTC Shop