What Are Women’s and Girls’ Funds?

Women's funds seek out initiatives that offer the greatest potential for lasting
impact on issues from poverty to women's political representation. They
invest in these programs, partnering with community organizations and
leaders to ensure these ventures have the money, resources and skills
to succeed.

Like mutual funds, women's funds expect a return on their investment. Instead of financial gain, the return on a women's fund is the transformation of the lives of women and girls and lasting impact on the communities in which they live. To see all our member funds and read about particular funds in your area, please go to our member directory.

What Makes Women’s Funds Unique?

Research has shown women's funds have developed a unique approach to grant-making that sets them apart from the mainstream in terms of impact and effectiveness.

Women’s Funds:

• Focus on 'systemic' solutions – changes to the policies and systems that shape women's opportunities in society
• Invest in women who are poor and pushed to the margins – over 80% of women's fund grants flow to women and girls with low-income or no income
• Consist of start-up and venture investors, kick-starting many new community organizations and projects
• Don't just give money – they build the leadership, skills and influence of their grantee partners
• Believe everyone can be a philanthropist, engaging diverse audiences in giving, leadership and decision-making
• Share a common focus on critical issues including combating poverty and violence, and improving access to healthcare and education