Grants for Public and State controlled institutions of higher education - Women & Girl Services

The Connection, Health, & Equity through Food (CHEF) Grant Program is a collaborative initiative across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Eastern Massachusetts, and Upstate New York, administered by the Maine Council on Aging. The program's core mission is to increase older adults’ equitable access to healthy food and social connection, aligning with a broader goal of addressing systemic issues like food insecurity and social isolation. This grant program seeks to support older adults by fostering programmatic infrastructure, expanding existing programs, and launching innovative new initiatives that cater to their food and social connection needs. The target beneficiaries of the CHEF Grant Program are primarily older adults, with a specific focus on underserved and marginalized populations. These include BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), LGBTQ+, women, veterans, people living with disabilities, and individuals residing in rural communities. The program's impact goals are centered on enhancing the quality of life for these older adults by improving their access to nutritious food and opportunities for social engagement. Projects that serve diverse older people, veterans, and older people living with disabilities are given priority. The CHEF program prioritizes finding solutions to the root causes of food insecurity and social isolation. These root causes include poverty, transportation barriers, rurality, and language barriers. While the grant does not explicitly detail the foundation's strategic priorities or a formal theory of change, the emphasis on equitable access, addressing systemic issues, and supporting vulnerable populations suggests a strategy focused on community-based interventions and empowerment. The program's design indicates a theory that by investing in local organizations and initiatives, significant improvements can be made in the well-being of older adults. Expected outcomes include increased access to healthy food for older adults, enhanced social connections within communities, and a reduction in the prevalence of food insecurity and social isolation among the target populations. While specific measurable results are not explicitly outlined, the program's focus on data for older people served (50.1% of the overall population served) suggests an intent to track the reach and impact on the primary beneficiary group. The grant duration is not mentioned, but the anticipated grant size of $2,000 – $10,000 for most grants indicates support for projects with tangible, localized impacts.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces an open competition, funded through the Gender Equity and Equality Action Fund, for organizations interested in advancing the role of women in the global labor movement.

This grant provides financial support to projects that promote environmental leadership and education for women and girls in the Greater Philadelphia Region.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations that deliver comprehensive family planning services to help reduce unintended pregnancies and improve reproductive health for individuals in Texas.

The Business Women’s Giving Circle (BWGC) of the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia awards grants to support innovative STEM opportunities for girls and young women in the region. Since 2014, the BWGC has awarded over $520,000 in grants, aligning with the Foundation's mission to foster positive community impact by supporting initiatives in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), Leadership, and Entrepreneurship. This grant program is a key part of the Foundation's strategic approach to investing in the future workforce and leadership within Northern Virginia. The target beneficiaries are girls and young women, from preschool through college-age, residing in Northern Virginia. Specifically, organizations providing services in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties, as well as the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park, are eligible. The impact goal is to create measurable positive changes in the lives of these girls and young women by providing them with exciting and enriching experiences in STEM, leadership, and entrepreneurship, thereby contributing to their educational and career development. The BWGC grant cycle prioritizes nonprofit organizations and schools that offer STEM programs with an emphasis on innovative components such as entrepreneurship, leadership, or mentorship. Funding is considered for both existing and new programs that directly support these areas. Applications for general organizational support, capital improvements, endowments, or scholarship awards are not considered, highlighting the program's focus on direct program delivery and innovation. Expected outcomes include increased participation and engagement of girls and young women in STEM fields, enhanced leadership skills, and the development of entrepreneurial mindsets. Measurable results are demonstrated by the impact on over 3,500 girls and young women since 2014. The Foundation's theory of change posits that by investing in innovative STEM, leadership, and entrepreneurship programs for girls and young women, they will empower the next generation of leaders and innovators, contributing to the economic vitality and social well-being of Northern Virginia.

This grant provides funding to empower and support women entrepreneurs in the Democratic Republic of the Congo by equipping them with essential business skills, resources, and networking opportunities to help grow their businesses.

A. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The U.S. Department of State, U.S. Embassy Kinshasa announces an Open Competition for organizations interested in submitting applications for projects that promote accountable, transparent, and democratic governance and promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all individuals. In this vein, selected projects will target youth and women interested in becoming political leaders in their communities and country. Projects will focus on education and empowerment, and will develop curricula, that cover civic engagement, peaceful participation in political processes, ethics in politics, community leadership and advocacy. Goals Projects should demonstrate systemic change and be designed to achieve the following objectives: Objective 1: Inspire youth and womens desire to participate in democratic processes by enlisting experienced youth and women in politics to develop a mentorship program. Objective 2: Develop entrepreneurial capacities of youth and women that contribute towards access to educational programs, creating sustainable income-generating activities, and paying for involvement in electoral processes. Objective 3: Inspire youth and womens desire to participate in democratic processes by enlisting experienced youth and women in politics to develop a mentorship program. Objective 4: Develop entrepreneurial capacities of youth and women that contribute towards access to educational programs, creating sustainable income-generating activities, and paying for involvement in electoral processes. Objective 5: Establish centers of learning and capacity-building for open dialogue among youth and women, civil society, governments, and the communities they serve. Objective 6: Empower key reformers and actors to promote access to justice, strengthen checks on executive power, and incorporate citizen-responsive governance to reduce corruption and improve the delivery of public services. Objective 7: Provide technical support and integrate program with or leverage existing programs, local resources, and/or the activities of other donors.

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for the FY2024 Global Media Makers (GMM) program. U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to conduct a professional development program for film and television content creators from participating countries to enhance their skills and to support local creative economies. This program, like other ECA film program models, seeks to elevate influential voices that are building resilient civil societies by using film and television content to address critical local issues including, but not limited to, the climate crisis, democratic governance, freedom of expression, pluralism, tolerance, womens and youth empowerment.The FY 2024 GMM program will connect up to 50 mid-career film and television professionals ("Fellows) with professionals (Mentors) from the U.S. entertainment industry who will facilitate behind-the-scenes access, bolster Fellows technical skills and creative content development, and build the foundations for lasting professional networks. Fellows will travel to the United States for a four-to-six-week residency, which will take place primarily in Los Angeles (L.A.), to work on projects with a team of mentors to receive state-of-the-art-training and industry access to support conceptual development of independent, authentic, and compelling content for distribution in the Fellows home countries. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The Greenbush Area Community Fund, managed by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, offers grants to nonprofit or public entities within the Greenbush area of Minnesota. This grant program aims to support projects or activities that enhance and/or promote educational experiences and other related purposes aligned with the Greenbush Area Community Fund's mission. While the explicit mission of the Greenbush Area Community Fund is not detailed, the focus on community enhancement and specific areas of impact suggests an alignment with broader community development and quality of life improvement goals. The target beneficiaries of these grants are qualifying programs and services within the Greenbush area that serve the community. The impact goals are to support economic development, education, aesthetic enhancement, or youth and senior enrichment. The selection criteria emphasize how a project meets the Greenbush Area Community Fund's mission, its capacity to extend beyond traditional opportunities, and the number of participants or organizations served. This indicates a desire to foster innovative and far-reaching community initiatives. The grant program prioritizes projects within the areas of economic development, education, aesthetic enhancement, and youth and senior enrichment. Special consideration is given to applicants who partner with other qualifying organizations or include cash or in-kind matches, highlighting a strategic focus on collaboration and shared investment. This encourages a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to community improvement. Expected outcomes include enhanced educational experiences, improved economic conditions, more aesthetically pleasing community spaces, and enriched opportunities for youth and seniors. Measurable results would likely be tied to the number of participants served, the scope of the projects, and the demonstrable impact within the prioritized areas. The strategic priorities and theory of change appear to center on empowering local organizations to drive positive change through targeted investments that foster education, development, and community well-being, leveraging partnerships for greater collective impact.

This funding opportunity provides financial support and training for women entrepreneurs from under-represented backgrounds in Quebec, Canada, to develop essential business skills and create scalable business models.

This grant provides funding to organizations that support women entrepreneurs in Cameroon, helping them improve their businesses and access U.S. export markets through training and resources.

The U.S. Embassy Nassaus Public Diplomacy (PD) section announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to develop and organize a Regional Alumnae Summit for the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) network throughout the Caribbean. The PD section invites proposals from non-profit organizations, civil society organizations, and U.S. government alumni organizations to design and organize a summit to connect small and medium businesses of AWE Alumnae from across the Caribbean during a 2-day Summit in Nassau, The Bahamas in Spring 2025. This Summit will also provide a forum for AWE Alumnae to expand their professional network, share best practices and gain broader market access. In consultation with the U.S. Embassy Public Diplomacy team, the awardee is expected to organize all logistics for the Summit to include, but not limited to several deliverables. Therefore, the proposal should clearly describe how each item below will be addressed: Structure and Overall plan for the event. The estimated Cost for the proposed Venue for the Summit. Equipment (Equipment cannot account for more than 10% of the total project cost.) Marketing plan Proposed 6 Conference Speakers and associated costs (this should include Bahamian, Caribbean and American Entrepreneurs as well as a Keynote Speaker.) Travel Costs for participants from Family Islands. A Business Expo opportunity for participants. Opportunities for participants to scale up their businesses (ex. export, product development and scaling.) Cost Share (not required but looked upon favorably) Public Private Partnerships Pre and Post Surveys for participants (ex. To garner input for topics for summit)

This grant provides researchers with access to advanced facilities and technical support for developing non-hormonal contraception and reproductive health products, without direct funding.

This funding opportunity supports the training and development of 100 young women entrepreneurs in South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini through a combination of online learning and in-person mentorship.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for youth programs that promote holistic and culturally responsive physical well-being, prioritizing initiatives led by or serving youth of color, girls, youth with disabilities, and LGBTQ youth.

This grant provides funding to organizations for implementing suicide prevention training in correctional and juvenile detention facilities in Illinois, focusing on at-risk youth and older males in underserved communities.

The Women's Giving Circle Grant Fund is a competitive grant opportunity offered annually by the Women's Giving Circle (WGC) of Dunn County. The WGC aims to support the needs of women and families in Dunn County through collaborative philanthropy. Non-profit organizations that primarily benefit women and/or children/families are eligible to apply. The typical award amounts range from $500 to $2,500 or more. Applicants must be certified 501(c)(3) organizations or governmental/educational organizations. The proposed project must have a geographical focus on Dunn County and demonstrate cultural sensitivity. The grant does not fund capital campaigns, deficit reductions, organizational endowments, travel grants, event tickets/sponsorships, ongoing operational expenses, grants to individuals, political parties/activities/candidates/action committees, or programs requiring adherence to religious beliefs. Only one grant proposal per organization is allowed per cycle, and all funds must be used within one year unless an extension is granted. The decision process involves review by the grants committee and final approval by the WGC board members in July. Notification of decisions will be sent in August, and the grant funds must be used within one calendar year. Grantees are required to acknowledge support from the Women's Giving Circle in their project materials and submit a final grant report within 30 days of project completion or one year from the award date. To apply for this grant opportunity, eligible applicants must create an account on the Community Foundation's online grant application system starting in January 2022. Required uploads include current Board of Directors information, organizational budget with projected revenues/expenses for the current year, audited financial statement (if available), and proof of current IRS 990 filing. For more information or assistance with the application process, applicants can contact the Community Foundation at 715-232-8019 or email grants@cfdunncounty.org. Funding Organization: Women's Giving Circle (WGC) of Dunn County Contact Information: Community Foundation of Dunn County, 715-232-8019, grants@cfdunncounty.org Award Details: Typical award amounts range from $500 to $2,500 or more. Eligibility: Non-profit organizations that primarily benefit women and/or children/families. Applicants

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations that develop housing solutions and supportive services for victims of human trafficking, helping them transition to safe and permanent living situations.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), through its Office of Adult Career Pathways (ACP), is offering the Women’s Economic Security Act (WESA) Competitive Grant for State Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027. The ACP supports Minnesotans facing barriers to employment by funding workforce training, wrap-around services, and educational programs that prepare individuals for family-sustaining wages, with a focus on eliminating racial disparities and increasing access to high-growth, high-wage jobs. This competitive grant program aims to encourage and assist women in entering high-wage, high-demand, and nontraditional occupations, particularly in skilled trades and STEM fields, thereby increasing representation and economic security for women. Funding totals $1.5 million statewide, with applicants eligible for up to $125,000 per year, or $250,000 total over the two-year period. Awards will be evenly split between SFY 2026 and SFY 2027. Funding must support activities aligned with WESA objectives, including recruitment, preparation, placement, and retention of women in nontraditional occupations; training and education; innovative outreach to girls and women; employer incentives; technical assistance; and supportive services such as childcare and transportation. Target populations include women of color, girls of color aged 16–17, women over 50, and low-income women, with priority given to programs serving women of color. Programs must focus on occupations meeting Minnesota’s high-wage, high-demand criteria or U.S. Department of Labor definitions for nontraditional careers for women. Eligible applicants include community-based organizations, employers, labor unions, business or trade associations with 501(c)(6) status, secondary and postsecondary institutions, workforce and economic development agencies, registered apprenticeship programs, and state, local, or Tribal governments. All applicants must have a Minnesota physical location open to the public, be in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State, and—if nonprofit—hold a recognized tax-exempt designation and be in good standing with the IRS. Each organization may submit one proposal as primary grantee but may partner on other proposals. Applicants must be able to comply with DEED administrative requirements, use Workforce One for participant tracking, and follow applicable state and federal regulations. Applications must be submitted as a single PDF via email to ACPgrants.deed@state.mn.us with the subject “WESA Application – [organization name].” The deadline is 5:00 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, August 28, 2025. Required forms include the cover sheet, narrative responses, work plan, budget, partnership chart and letters of support, conflict of interest disclosures, unemployment insurance account consent, nonprofit financial documents if applicable, and other attestations. Questions must be submitted in writing to Sarah Lee at sarah.lee@state.mn.us by August 21, 2025. DEED hosted an informational webinar on July 16, 2025, and recorded technical assistance sessions are available online. Proposals will be scored on a 100-point scale across seven categories: organizational capacity and experience, program description, implementation work plan, outreach and engagement, partnerships, performance and evaluation, and budget capacity. Reviewers will include DEED staff and community experts in workforce development, education, and relevant industries. Awards are expected to be announced October 8, 2025, with the grant term running from the date of execution through June 30, 2027. Grantees are expected to participate in onboarding, quarterly engagement sessions, evaluation activities, and monitoring visits, and to submit regular performance and financial reports. DEED may offer partial awards to ensure equitable geographic and community distribution of funding. Performance metrics will include job placements, wages, retention, and credential attainment. The grant also carries administrative requirements such as competitive procurement for large purchases, compliance with affirmative action and non-discrimination laws, and retention of records for at least six years. Contact Sarah Lee, ACP Program Coordinator, at sarah.lee@state.mn.us or 651-259-7307 for further information.

This program provides funding to states for initiatives that improve maternal health outcomes and reduce disparities in maternal mortality and severe morbidity through collaborative efforts among public health agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations.