Women’s Giving Circle Grants

The Women’s Giving Circle Grants program is administered by the Jasper Newton Foundation, a community-focused philanthropic organization based in Indiana that supports local initiatives through collective charitable giving. The Women’s Giving Circles are composed of local women who contribute annually to a pooled fund, which is then distributed as grants to nonprofit organizations and community projects within their respective communities. Since its inception in 2003, the program has demonstrated a sustained commitment to grassroots philanthropy, with more than 190000 dollars awarded to local organizations addressing a wide range of community needs. The primary purpose of the Women’s Giving Circle Grants program is to empower local women to actively participate in charitable decision-making while supporting nonprofit organizations that provide meaningful services or improvements within Jasper County communities such as Rensselaer, DeMotte, and Wheatfield. The funding scope is locally focused, with grants intended to support specific programs or initiatives that demonstrate clear community benefit. While the exact allowable uses of funds are not explicitly defined, applicants are required to articulate the importance of their proposal and its impact on both their organization and the broader community, indicating that projects should align closely with community development and service-oriented outcomes. Eligibility for the grant is directed toward nonprofit organizations, specifically those that can demonstrate federal tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Applicants must provide a valid Federal Tax ID or EIN and include documentation verifying their tax-exempt status. In addition, organizations are required to submit a list of their officers and board of directors, which suggests an emphasis on organizational transparency and governance. The program appears to prioritize established nonprofit entities with a formal structure and demonstrated accountability. The application process is relatively straightforward and requires completion of a standardized application form. Applicants must provide organizational details, contact information, the amount of funding requested, and relevant project dates. A concise program description is required in the form of a brief sentence, supplemented by a one-page narrative explaining the significance of the proposal and its anticipated impact. This narrative must also address alternative funding sources, indicating that the grant program is competitive and may not fully fund all requests. Applications must be submitted to the Jasper Newton Foundation via mail to their designated address. The evaluation process is not explicitly detailed, but the emphasis on narrative justification, community impact, and alternative funding sources suggests that proposals are reviewed based on need, feasibility, and alignment with community priorities. The decision-making process is carried out by members of the Women’s Giving Circles, who collectively determine grant awards each year. This participatory model underscores the importance of community engagement and shared stewardship in funding decisions. The application deadline for the 2026 grant cycle is September 1, 2026, and this deadline appears to recur annually based on the structure of the program. While specific award notification timelines and performance periods are not provided, the annual cycle indicates a predictable funding rhythm. Applicants are encouraged to prepare materials in advance and ensure compliance with all submission requirements to remain competitive. For additional information, applicants may contact the Jasper Newton Foundation via phone or email during standard office hours. Overall, the Women’s Giving Circle Grants program represents a localized, community-driven funding opportunity that emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and meaningful impact. By engaging women in philanthropic leadership and supporting nonprofit initiatives, the program fosters both civic participation and tangible improvements in community well-being.

Clearly articulate community impact and justify need while demonstrating alternative funding awareness due to competitive funding environment