Best Women & Girls Services Grants

The Hansberry-Lilly Fellowship, initiated by the Lillys’ Lorraine Hansberry Initiative, aims to empower women and non-binary playwrights of color by providing $25,000 stipends for their graduate education in playwriting. This need-based scholarship addresses financial disparities, ensuring that awardees can focus on their craft without economic burdens. Eligible applicants must be newly accepted to designated MFA programs. The fellowship fosters a supportive environment for writing and collaboration, honoring Lorraine Hansberry's legacy in the arts.

The Texas Women’s Foundation’s Community Grant supports nonprofits empowering women and girls in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With a focus on addressing systemic oppression, grants up to $40,000 are awarded for capacity-building, operating, and program support. Key priorities include economic security, workforce development, and health access. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to serving women and girls, ensuring at least 75% of beneficiaries fall within this demographic.

The Veterans Donation Fund Large Grant A.R.S. 41-608 supports programs benefiting Arizona's veterans and their families. Established by the Arizona legislature in 1999, the fund is sustained by tax-deductible donations and aims to engage the community in informing veterans about their benefits. Eligible applicants include local governments, non-profits, and academic institutions, focusing on issues like employment, health, and homelessness. This initiative is crucial for enhancing support services for over 600,000 veterans in Arizona.

The Women for Women of Pitt County initiative, supported by the North Carolina Community Foundation, aims to empower women and girls in Pitt County through various programs. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 will fund projects that promote economic self-sufficiency, prevent violence, and enhance community participation. With a total grant pool of $103,000, this initiative seeks to create lasting positive impacts on the lives of women and girls, fostering their growth and well-being.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to increase diversity in assistant coaching roles by providing financial support to member institutions. Over two years, selected schools receive $15,000 to cover salaries, requiring a matching contribution. This initiative encourages ethnic minority and gender representation, allowing up to 11 institutions to benefit annually, thus enhancing inclusivity in collegiate sports.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to bolster ethnic minority and gender representation in senior athletics administration roles. With an annual budget of $1.6 million, it supports up to 46 schools and conferences over five years. Eligible institutions must be active NCAA Division III members and meet various requirements. This grant encourages diversity in leadership, fostering an inclusive environment for student-athletes.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant - Division II offers financial support to enhance ethnic minority and gender representation in mid- to senior-level athletics administration roles across NCAA Division II institutions. With an annual budget of $860,000, the grant aims to fund up to 20 schools and conferences each year. Eligible applicants must be active Division II members and are encouraged to collaborate with their human resources departments during the proposal process, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.

The Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

The S.T.E.M. for Girls Grants support initiatives that encourage girls in North Central West Virginia to engage in science, technology, engineering, and math. With funding up to $4,000, eligible applicants include traditional public schools and nonprofit organizations focusing on programs for girls in grades K-12. Activities may include after-school clubs, enrichment programs, and financial assistance for STEM-related events, fostering a passion for S.T.E.M. careers among young women.

The Sunflower Grant supports grassroots organizations in Oregon with funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, typically between $4,000 and $7,000 annually. This program aims to assist independent 501(c)(3) organizations focusing on local community needs. While the grant process is straightforward, competition has increased due to a rise in applications. Eligible applicants must have a fiscal year financial statement available at the time of application, and the grants are intended for general operating support.

The Rose Grant is a competitive funding opportunity aimed at supporting Oregon-based nonprofits with operating budgets over $250,000. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $35,000 annually, with possible awards between $10,000 and $75,000. Organizations are encouraged to demonstrate a commitment to diversity and financial readiness. The grant application is shared with the Daffodil Grant program, and funding decisions are expected within 3-4 months after the application period closes.

The Daffodil Grant is a highly competitive grant program aimed at supporting impactful organizations in Oregon. With funding typically ranging from $100,000 to $125,000 per year, it provides opportunities for multi-year commitments. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as financial stability. This program prioritizes organizations aligned with its mission and values, ensuring meaningful investments in the community. Applications are assessed rigorously, with funding decisions expected within 3-4 months.

The Women's Foundation of Genesee Valley has been dedicated to empowering women and families since 1994, investing over $1.7 million in community programs. They focus on funding projects that enhance women's economic self-sufficiency and advocate for diversity and inclusivity. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities serving the designated counties. Notably, the foundation does not support individual grants or capital expenses, ensuring resources directly benefit women and girls in need.

The Governor's Industry Vocations Scholarship (NJ-GIVS) supports women and minority students pursuing certificates or degrees in construction-related fields. Funded by the Schools Development Authority and administered by HESAA, this scholarship can cover up to $2,000 per year or the full cost of tuition, minus any other financial aid. It is renewable for one year, contingent on future funding availability, and awards are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Women’s Giving Circle Grant empowers women and families in Washington County, MD, by funding programs that enhance life skills, support young girls' development, and improve overall well-being. Since 2003, this initiative has supported various organizations, providing essential resources such as professional attire, educational classes, and transitional housing. With contributions starting at just a dollar a day, the grant fosters a collaborative philanthropic spirit among women, ensuring impactful support for the community.

The AAUW State College STEM Mini-Grant supports local organizations and schools in developing STEM programs aimed at empowering girls and women in Centre County. With grants up to $500, this initiative encourages educational equity and economic security. By fostering leadership and advocacy, AAUW State College aims to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields, ensuring that women have equal opportunities to succeed and thrive in their careers.

The AAUW State College Centre County Community Action Grant aims to support non-profit organizations in Centre County, Pennsylvania, that empower women and girls. Founded in 1881, AAUW advocates for gender equity and economic security through research, education, and community programs. Grants are awarded to initiatives that align with their mission, focusing on education, advocacy, and economic opportunities. Applicants must ensure that over half of the beneficiaries are women or girls, fostering a collaborative approach to equity.

The Junior League of Houston is introducing the Community Assistance Pilot Program to support early-stage organizations in the greater Houston area. This program will provide up to three agencies with $10,000 annually for three years, aiming to enhance their capacity in key focus areas: Children’s Education, Health and Well-Being, and Basic Needs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits with a clean legal record and less than $1 million in assets.

The Travel & Training Fund, established by the Women’s Sports Foundation, has supported over 1,500 female athletes since 1984, including Olympians and national team members. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 aim to alleviate financial burdens for women athletes pursuing elite competition. Prioritizing those with a plan to contribute back to women's sports, the fund emphasizes eligibility for U.S. citizens or legal residents, ensuring a significant impact on the recipients' athletic journeys.

The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle empowers women through collective giving to positively impact Sarasota and Manatee communities. By supporting organizations that cater to the needs of women, children, and families, the Circle fosters awareness and mobilizes resources for lasting change. Organizations in these counties can apply for grants, provided they meet eligibility requirements, including nonprofit status verification. This initiative aims to uplift and transform communities through dedicated support.

The JLH Community Assistance Grant supports projects in the greater Houston area that fulfill critical needs and lack volunteer support. Eligible organizations can apply once every three years, with a focus on children’s education, health, and basic family needs. Funded partly by the Barbara and Roy Adams Endowed Community Grant Fund, this initiative aims to enhance community outreach and provide essential services, ensuring a positive impact on local residents.

The Summit Credit Union Grant emphasizes charitable giving through partnerships that support equity, financial wellbeing, and women's empowerment. Committed to reducing inequities, the credit union seeks nonprofit organizations that align with these pillars to foster community growth. Eligibility criteria include being a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving specific areas and submitting an online application. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious or political organizations, or any entities that discriminate based on various identities.

The Gainbridge Assists Powered by Parity Grant, in partnership with Parity and the Women’s Sports Foundation, supports girls and women in sports and education. In 2024, $222,000 will be awarded through 32 grants, including a $50,000 grant honoring Billie Jean King. This initiative aims to empower over 5,000 participants, fostering community transformation through sports and educational opportunities.

The Immediate Response Action Fund (IRAF) provides urgent financial support for organizations addressing critical needs of women and girls. Established in 2017, this fund offers one-time grants up to $10,000, aimed at responding to unanticipated events requiring swift action. Eligible organizations must primarily serve women and girls and demonstrate a commitment to reproductive justice. Priority is given to those with limited budgets and a focus on low-income communities, ensuring impactful support where it's needed most.

The Women and Girls Fund of Waukesha County (WGF) provides grants up to $20,000 to support local nonprofit projects that empower women and girls. Focus areas include health, self-sufficiency, and empowerment, addressing needs such as mental health, economic security, and education. Since its inception, the WGF has awarded over $2 million to organizations throughout Waukesha County, fostering safety and well-being for women and girls in the community.

The Girls Flag Grant, offered by USA Football, aims to empower youth and scholastic organizations to establish girls-only flag football programs. This inclusive initiative provides tailored support, including equipment, playbooks, and marketing resources. With a commitment to fostering growth in the sport, each grant is customized to meet the unique needs of the organization, ensuring long-term success and engagement in the game. Organizations must enroll with USA Football to apply.