Deadline: 10-Nov-2025
The UN Women, with funding from the European Union, is launching the WYDE | Women’s Leadership Initiative to advance women’s political participation and leadership at all levels.
A new funding opportunity is now available for organizations dedicated to advancing women’s political participation and leadership. This initiative is designed to support transformative projects that foster inclusive political environments and challenge the social norms that hinder women’s full engagement in public life.
Special consideration will be given to proposals that focus on building or strengthening feminist and women-led movements. Projects that promote young women’s leadership, expand activist networks, and support diverse voices—including women with disabilities, Indigenous women, LGBTQI+ individuals, and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds—are especially encouraged.
Successful applicants will demonstrate proven organizational capacity and experience in coalition-building with local stakeholders, including government agencies and civil society partners. The ability to operate in restrictive or shrinking civic spaces is also an important criterion, reflecting the current challenges faced by many organizations in the women’s rights sector.
Eligible organizations can apply for funding between $45,000 and $150,000 to implement projects lasting from 12 to 22 months.
To apply, organizations must be legally registered, possess certified financial statements for the past three years, and have at least three years of relevant experience. Proposals must focus on a single country that is eligible to receive Official Development Assistance. All applicants are required to confirm compliance with ethical standards and must not be under any form of sanction or investigation.
This opportunity offers vital support to organizations that are not only driving policy change but also building the leadership and political capital of women around the world. It is an invitation to create meaningful, long-term impact by investing in women’s voices and ensuring they are heard in the spaces where decisions are made.
For more information, visit UN Women.