The Allegany-Cattaraugus-Chautauqua Fund for Women is a regional philanthropic initiative committed to empowering women in Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua Counties in New York State. Administered by the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation, this fund provides direct financial assistance to women seeking continued personal development and economic self-sufficiency. The grant is designed to uplift individuals facing financial barriers by offering targeted support that aligns with clearly defined personal or professional goals.
In the 2026 grant cycle, the Fund for Women will offer individual awards of up to $1,000. Funding may be used for a wide variety of qualifying purposes such as educational expenses (including tuition and books), small business-related costs (start-up or support of an existing enterprise), and professional development or vocational training programs. While applicants are encouraged to propose other uses aligned with their personal growth, all applications must demonstrate financial need and a purposeful plan for how the funding will advance the applicant’s self-sufficiency.
Certain restrictions apply to ensure that the funding directly supports advancement goals. The fund will not cover personal or household expenses such as rent, utilities, mortgage payments, car loans, or home repairs. All applicants must provide valid identification. In some cases, finalists may be asked to participate in a brief video interview lasting approximately five minutes to respond to follow-up questions about their application or plans for the grant funding.
The application period for this grant runs from February 5, 2026, through March 20, 2026. Grant recipients are expected to be notified by April 30, 2026. All applications must be submitted through the official process, and those who are unable to apply online can request a phone or in-person interview by contacting the foundation directly. Questions or clarifications about the process should be directed to [email protected].
This program is not recurring and is specific to the 2026 cycle. It is tailored to individuals who are residents of one of the three counties listed and identifies as a woman. It is a regionally focused initiative rather than a national program and aims to support women at various stages in their personal and professional lives. The program represents a targeted intervention to reduce gender-based economic barriers and improve the prospects for individual betterment within its service region.
Clearly define how funding will support betterment; personal expenses are disqualified.
