The Women’s Fund of Central New York, administered by the Central New York Community Foundation, offers an annual grant opportunity to organizations focused on addressing the challenges and opportunities facing women and girls within Central New York. This program targets nonprofits that aim to make a substantive difference through innovative, community-centric approaches. Applicants are encouraged to propose capacity-building activities or new projects rather than requests to sustain ongoing initiatives.
Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, publicly supported entities such as schools or municipalities, and groups working with a qualified fiscal sponsor. Organizations must primarily serve the residents of Cayuga, Onondaga, Madison, or Oswego counties. Preference is given to applicants with annual operating budgets of $5 million or less, emphasizing support for grassroots and mid-sized community-based programs.
Funded projects should present practical solutions to local issues, encourage collaboration among community agencies, and aim to build lasting institutional strength and community engagement. Emphasis is also placed on programs that blend preventative strategies with remedial support, further reinforcing the fund’s commitment to holistic and sustainable impact. Requests for recurring funding of previously supported programs, endowments, religious activities, or support to individuals are not eligible.
All applications must be submitted via the fund's online portal by the deadline of June 13, 2025. Applicants are notified of funding decisions approximately eight weeks following the deadline. If a grant is awarded, grantees are encouraged to share updates, photos, and outcomes to help the fund communicate the value of its support and inform future grantmaking.
Organizations not holding direct tax-exempt status may apply through a fiscal sponsor. This arrangement requires submission of the sponsor’s IRS determination letter, financial statements, current board list, and a formal letter of support outlining their oversight responsibilities. Approved grants are paid directly to the fiscal sponsor on behalf of the sponsored entity.
For additional information, the Central New York Community Foundation can be contacted at 431 East Fayette Street, Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13202, by phone at 315.422.9538.
