Deadline: 07-Jul-2026
The Core Grants Program is accepting applications from U.S.-based organizations working to strengthen women’s and girls’ safety, leadership, participation, and gender equity through collaborative and research-driven approaches. In 2026, the programme will award three grants of USD 120,000 each, distributed over three years at USD 40,000 annually.
Eligible organizations must have annual operating budgets between USD 250,000 and USD 5 million and hold 501(c)(3) nonprofit status or operate through a fiscal sponsor.
Overview of the Core Grants Program
The Core Grants Program supports organizations implementing sustainable, community-based initiatives that improve opportunities and outcomes for women and girls.
The programme places strong emphasis on collaboration, evidence-based approaches, and community engagement to address challenges affecting women and girls and to promote inclusive participation in society.
The programme supports:
- Women’s leadership development
- Community empowerment
- Gender equity initiatives
- Research-informed advocacy
- Collaborative action
- Public education efforts
- Safer and more inclusive communities
Programme Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Advance women’s and girls’ safety
- Promote leadership and participation
- Support gender equity efforts
- Encourage collaborative approaches
- Strengthen research-based advocacy
- Expand community education initiatives
- Build more inclusive communities
Key Focus Areas
1. Collective Approaches and Collaboration
The programme prioritizes organizations working collaboratively to increase impact and share expertise.
Examples include:
- Strategic partnerships
- Coalition initiatives
- Shared resource models
- Cross-sector collaborations
2. Research and Advocacy Integration
Organizations should use evidence and research to inform policy discussions and solutions.
Examples:
- Policy research
- Data collection initiatives
- Advocacy campaigns
- Community assessments
3. Community Education and Empowerment
Projects should increase awareness and encourage community engagement around women’s rights and equity issues.
Examples include:
- Public education programmes
- Community workshops
- Leadership initiatives
- Awareness campaigns
Funding Information
Grant Value
Selected organizations will receive:
- USD 120,000 total funding
Funding distribution:
- USD 40,000 per year
- Duration: 3 years
Number of Awards
- Three organizations will receive grants in 2026.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must meet organizational and legal requirements.
Eligible Organizations
Applicants must:
- Be based in the United States
- Hold 501(c)(3) nonprofit status or have a fiscal sponsor
- Maintain annual budgets between:
- USD 250,000
- USD 5 million
Organizations should demonstrate work aligned with women’s rights and gender equity goals.
Ineligible Uses of Funding
Grant funding cannot be used for:
- Capital campaigns
- Partisan political activities
- Individual sponsorships
Why This Grant Matters
Women and girls continue to face barriers related to safety, representation, leadership opportunities, and equity.
The programme helps:
- Strengthen community leadership
- Support evidence-based solutions
- Increase public awareness
- Expand collaborative impact
- Improve gender inclusion
- Promote sustainable social change
The long-term goal is to create environments where women and girls can participate fully and safely in society.
How to Apply
Step 1: Review Programme Priorities
Confirm that your organization aligns with:
- Women’s safety
- Leadership development
- Gender equity
- Community engagement
- Research and advocacy
Step 2: Develop a Strong Project Strategy
Clearly define:
- Programme goals
- Target population
- Expected impact
- Collaboration strategy
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Information
Include:
- Organizational background
- Budget information
- Financial records
- Programme activities
- Partnership details
Step 4: Demonstrate Research and Community Impact
Explain:
- Evidence supporting the initiative
- Community needs
- Data-driven approach
- Expected outcomes
Step 5: Submit the Application
Complete and submit the application according to programme guidelines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Weak Collaboration Models
The programme prioritizes collective approaches and partnerships.
2. Limited Evidence-Based Planning
Applications should demonstrate use of research and data.
3. Generic Community Impact Statements
Provide measurable and specific outcomes.
4. Budget Mismatch
Ensure organizational budgets fall within eligibility requirements.
5. Proposing Ineligible Activities
Avoid including restricted uses of funding.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Demonstrate community impact with evidence
- Show meaningful partnerships
- Explain long-term sustainability
- Include measurable outcomes
- Highlight leadership and equity goals
- Present realistic implementation plans
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Core Grants Program?
It is a funding initiative supporting U.S.-based organizations advancing women’s and girls’ safety, leadership, and gender equity.
2. How much funding is available?
Each selected organization receives USD 120,000 over three years, distributed at USD 40,000 annually.
3. How many grants will be awarded?
Three organizations will receive grants in 2026.
4. Who can apply?
U.S.-based nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsorship and annual budgets between USD 250,000 and USD 5 million may apply.
5. Can organizations use funding for political activities?
No. Funding cannot support partisan political activities.
6. Does the programme prioritize collaboration?
Yes. Collaborative strategies and shared expertise are key priorities.
7. Can funding support capital campaigns?
No. Capital campaigns are not eligible for funding.
Conclusion
The Core Grants Program provides long-term funding support for organizations working to improve the lives of women and girls through collaborative action, community empowerment, and evidence-based advocacy. By supporting sustainable initiatives and collective approaches, the programme contributes to stronger, safer, and more equitable communities.
For more information, visit Hadassah Foundation.
