Women’s Giving Circle Grant

The Women’s Giving Circle (WGC) is a philanthropic organization committed to fostering generosity and community impact through collective giving. The mission of the WGC is threefold: to share the joy of giving, instill a legacy of generosity for future generations, and help its members collaboratively address pressing community needs. The Circle operates under the umbrella of the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque (CFGD), through which it carries out its grantmaking activities. The 2026 Women’s Giving Circle Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations that directly contribute to improving the self-sufficiency and life opportunities of women and children. The grantmaking strategy emphasizes equity, community collaboration, and long-term systemic impact. Eligible proposals must clearly demonstrate their alignment with the goal of advancing women and children—either by helping them become self-sufficient or by dismantling barriers to opportunity. Grants are offered as one-year awards with a maximum funding level of $5,000 per project. Up to 15% of the project budget may be allocated to operating expenses, including staffing and routine operational costs. Priority will be given to projects that achieve measurable, long-term outcomes. The selection committee favors proposals that improve quality of life, fill service or systemic gaps, promote community partnerships, and strengthen equity and inclusion. Projects that collaborate with other community organizations or show evidence of networking and partnership are especially encouraged. Proposals should also reflect a commitment to sustainability and long-lasting results beyond the grant period. Applications are open to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that have been providing public services for at least one year prior to applying. Each organization may submit only one proposal per grant cycle. Organizations that received WGC funding in the previous year are ineligible to apply for funding for the same program but may submit a different program for consideration. Applications from organizations with a political or religious ideological focus, requests for capital projects, fundraising events, or out-of-area programs will not be considered. The application window opens on March 1, 2026, and closes on April 1, 2026. All applications must be submitted through the GOapply online grants management system. Grants will be reviewed by the WGC Grantmaking Committee, and awards will be announced at the Gifts and Grants Celebration on June 10, 2026. Attendance by at least one representative from each awarded organization is required at the event. Awardees will be required to sign a grant agreement and either submit a final report or host a site visit upon project completion. For questions about the grant process, applicants may contact Natalie Ludovissy (Development Officer) or Gretchen Corcoran (Grants Manager) at 563-588-2700. Email inquiries can be directed to [email protected] or [email protected]. This grant cycle represents a meaningful opportunity for organizations to contribute to a more equitable and empowered community for women and children through targeted, collaborative, and sustainable programming.

Emphasize measurable results, long-term sustainability, community partnerships, and equity and justice in your application.