As the only statewide organization focused on the economic empowerment of women and girls, IWF awards Core Grants to programs that tackle one of the six identified barriers to women’s self-sufficiency:
Employment
IWF funds programs that supports women in seeking or maintaining employment. Examples may include resume-writing and job-application assistance, employment retention curriculum, and career advancement programs.
Childcare
IWF funds programs that increase access to quality and affordable childcare. Examples may include building new childcare centers, expanding existing centers, furniture and equipment purchasing, training curricula for new providers, before/after-school programming, and efforts to increase options for second/third-shift workers.
Housing
IWF funds programs that assist women and children experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. Examples may include emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, and life-skills programs to maintain stable housing.
Education & Training
IWF funds programs that prepares women and girls to enter the workforce or advance within their field. Examples may include job-specific training, apprenticeship programs, financial literacy education, and employment readiness programs.
Transportation
IWF funds programs that help women obtain safe and quality means of transportation. Examples may include assistance with finding and securing a vehicle, financial-lending and credit-building education, vehicle maintenance skill-building, and financial support for registration and title fees.
Mentorship
IWF funds programs that encourage women to share their talents to inspire a new generation of female leaders. Examples may include professional networking programs, career exploration programs, role model pairing programs, and leadership skills and self-esteem building programs.
Applying for Core Grants
Applications Closed for 2024
Click here to learn about the 2024 Grantees and their incredible programs!
The application process for 2025 Grants will kick-off in May 2025. Keep an eye on this page for further details and specific dates.
New Grantmaking Timeline!
MAY
- IWF Staff will host a virtual Grant Information Session to walk through the application process and answer any of your questions.
- Letters of Interest (LOIs) will open! This is a brief description of your funding request so we can screen initial alignment and eligibility.
JUNE
- Approved applicants will be invited to complete a Full Application online.
AUGUST
- Awardees will be selected after review from community panelists, the IWF Grants Committee, and the IWF Board of Directors.
- All applicants will be notified of their status.
SEPTEMBER
- Funds will be dispersed to awardees.
OCTOBER
- Awardees will be celebrated at the IWF Annual Luncheon!
