Application Process
Women First’s application process is a networked approach - our applications are by invitation only; however, we identify potential grantee partners through an extensive network of current and past grantee partners, peers, and advisors.
This form is the first step in that process. Organizations are invited to submit this form to indicate their interest in applying for funding from Women First International Fund.
Candidates who we believe are a strong fit for our unique model of grantmaking will be asked to submit a full proposal for funding.
Before you proceed, we ask that you carefully review our Eligibility Criteria and Funding Priorities, as well as our Grantmaking Strategy and Guidelines below:
ACTIVE PARTNERSHIP MODEL
Women First has an active partnership grantmaking model. We are committed to providing more than just grant dollars, and seek organizations who are just as excited as we are about collaboration. We expect grantee partners to:
IMPLEMENT ON PROGRAMMATIC WORK WITHIN THE THEMATIC FOCUS OF WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT. Our funding is flexible and we partner with organizations with whom we share goals to improve women’s livelihoods and financial independence.
INVEST IN CAPACITY-BUILDING, utilizing resources provided by Women First where appropriate and identifying other opportunities for organizational strengthening. We encourage partners to prioritize key areas for organizational effectiveness and growth. Partners must complete our Grassroots Organizational Capacity Assessment Tool to do this, and will have opportunities to participate in Women First-led capacity building activities.
COMMIT TO MEASURING (AND LEARNING FROM) programmatic and organizational results.
BE AN ACTIVE PARNER TO WOMEN FIRST AND OTHER GROUPS IN GRANT COHORTS. THIS INCLUDES:
PROACTIVELY COMMUNICATING with Women First throughout the partnership.
NETWORKING AND SHARING with Women First and other groups in the grant cohort. This includes being an active participant on Women First’s virtual network and attending virtual meetings (some in-person when possible) throughout the year.
Being TRANSPARENT about challenges and needs. Women First will work to respond to emerging priorities among our partners.
WELCOMING WOMEN FIRST STAFF for an in-person visit when this becomes feasible and safe. We believe in-person connections are important to grounding our 6-year partnership in mutual respect and shared understanding.