The She Sends Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is committed to increasing access and equity for women and girls in mountain biking. Through its 2025 grant offerings, the Foundation aims to eliminate barriers such as the cost of gear, coaching, travel, and race entry, enabling greater participation and competitive progression in the sport. The Foundation supports grassroots programs, emerging athletes, and community-driven efforts that are building sustainable and inclusive local biking ecosystems.
The "Strive for More" grant is a targeted initiative in partnership with Strava to support competitive female off-road cyclists aged 19–23. It addresses the critical development phase between junior racing and elite-level competition. Funding may be used for essential costs like equipment, coaching, and race travel, helping athletes prepare for events such as the World Cup cross-country circuit, the Life Time Grand Prix, or elite-level freeride competitions.
Applicants must be female, legal U.S. residents, and actively competing as U23 athletes, defined by USAC as those aged 19–22 on December 31 of the competition year. Additional requirements include attending a virtual mentorship meeting, organizing or joining a local girls’ ride, and sharing race progress or milestones during the 2025 or 2026 season. Grantees must also tag She Sends Foundation or Strava in quarterly posts or agree to an alternative visibility plan.
The application portal opens on October 8, 2025, and closes October 29, 2025. Applicants are notified within 30 days of submission. Grants of $5,000 each will be announced and distributed in November 2025. Applications are evaluated by the She Sends Foundation's Board of Directors and advisory team, based on resource needs, commitment to the sport, and potential to inspire others.
This program follows a recurring annual cadence with rolling cycles based on funding availability. Interested applicants are encouraged to follow @shesendsfoundation on social media for real-time updates on upcoming opportunities. While the next opportunity opens in October, the foundation’s rolling process means additional grants may open throughout the year as funds become available.
Highlighting community engagement and mentorship activities may improve application standing. Applicants should ensure alignment with She Sends’ values and complete all public sharing commitments.
