Women United of Siouxland is an initiative under the United Way of Siouxland aimed at enhancing the lives of children in the Siouxland area. Since 2006, this women-led philanthropic network has awarded 117 grants totaling $1,428,390 to support programs and projects that benefit local youth. Women United offers a platform for women in Siouxland to direct their charitable giving toward issues they care about, collaborate with other women to improve their community, and engage with local nonprofits. Membership levels vary by contribution amount, with Silver ($1,250), Gold ($2,500), and Platinum ($5,000) levels offering increasing voting power to influence funding decisions.
Women United awards two types of grants: Program Grants and Brighter Future Grants. Program Grants provide between $500 and $2,499 for one-time expenditures such as supplies, equipment, books, and technology, targeting the needs of children ages 0–18. Brighter Future Grants, ranging from $2,500 to $50,000, support new, ongoing, or expanding programs that address broader issues such as childhood poverty, education, literacy, safety, and health. Both grant types require funds to be used within one year, with semi-annual progress reports required for Program Grants and quarterly progress reports for Brighter Future Grants.
The 2025 awardees of Women United funding include a diverse group of organizations, such as Florence Crittenton Home, Siouxland Foster Closet, Siouxland Mental Health, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. These grants are used for various projects ranging from essential baby supplies to educational support and health and safety upgrades in preschools.
Eligibility for Women United funding is strictly project or program-based, and the initiative does not fund indirect costs such as endowments, administrative salaries, overhead, or facility-related expenses. This ensures that funding is directly tied to measurable impact on the lives of local children.
Applications for the 2026 grant cycle will open in October or November. Interested applicants must adhere to the specific guidelines and reporting requirements laid out by Women United. Previously funded agencies may apply for up to two additional years of funding under the Brighter Future category.
Applicants with questions about the grant process are encouraged to contact Sharon Messerschmidt at smesserschmidt@unitedwaysiouxland.com or call 712-255-3551. The United Way of Siouxland is headquartered at 701 Steuben St, Sioux City, IA 51101.
