Arkansas Women & Girl Services Grants

The Women’s Foundation of Arkansas (WFA) is launching its fifth Women’s Economic Mobility Hub (WEM Hub) cohort, a program specifically designed to support Black women-owned businesses. This initiative aligns directly with the WFA's mission to advance economic mobility for women, particularly focusing on a demographic that often faces significant barriers to business growth. By providing a comprehensive suite of resources, the WEM Hub seeks to address systemic inequities and foster sustainable economic empowerment. The primary target beneficiaries of the WEM Hub program are existing businesses that are at least 75% owned and operated by one or more Black women who are U.S. citizens. These businesses must be physically located and operating for over one year within Arkansas, and be in good standing with the Arkansas Secretary of State and current on all taxes. The program specifically excludes not-for-profit entities, focusing instead on for-profit corporations, partnerships, LLPs, LLCs, or sole proprietorships. The core impact goal is to scale these Black women-owned businesses through robust support and unrestricted grant funding. The WEM Hub program prioritizes technical assistance, offering a six-month intensive program that combines online training and in-person meetings. Key areas of focus include expert advice on accounting, financial management, business development, and legal services. Participants also receive ongoing mentorship, engage in peer-to-peer learning sessions, and gain training in communications, public relations, marketing, and leadership skill development. A significant component is the opportunity to establish relationships with participating financial institutions, which is crucial for long-term growth and stability. Expected outcomes include enhanced business acumen, improved financial literacy, and stronger market presence for participating businesses. The program aims for measurable results through the provision of $5,000 in unrestricted grant funds to each business, directly contributing to their scaling efforts. The WFA's strategic priority is to create a tangible pathway for Black women entrepreneurs to not only survive but thrive, thereby reducing economic disparities and contributing to the overall economic health of Arkansas. The underlying theory of change is that by equipping Black women business owners with tailored support, financial resources, and networking opportunities, their businesses will experience accelerated growth, leading to increased economic mobility and wealth creation for the entrepreneurs and their communities.

The MartinConnects Grant Program is an initiative by MartinFed that aims to make a positive difference in the communities where the company operates. This program supports organizations dedicated to charitable, scientific, literary, or educational purposes, aligning with MartinFed's broader mission of community engagement. The grants are specifically directed towards 501(c)3 public charities, including schools, religious institutions, and government agencies, ensuring that funds reach legitimate and impactful organizations. The program's commitment to community betterment reflects a strategic priority of MartinFed to foster positive social impact. The program targets specific beneficiaries through its focus areas, which include homelessness, STEM education, veterans' support, and initiatives for women and children. By concentrating on these critical areas, MartinConnects seeks to address pressing societal needs and improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations. The impact goals are implicitly tied to the success of programs within these focus areas, aiming to provide support, resources, and opportunities to those who need them most. For example, supporting STEM initiatives can lead to improved educational outcomes and future career opportunities, while aiding veterans and homeless individuals contributes to their well-being and reintegration into society. Key priorities for grant recipients include complementing the MartinFed mission and demonstrating a recognized reputation for integrity in program implementation, financial management, and project effectiveness. Organizations must also ensure their work aligns with one of the MartinConnects focus areas. This rigorous selection process ensures that funding is directed towards highly effective and trustworthy organizations that can maximize the impact of the grants. The funding information indicates that grants range from $2,000 to $8,000, with eligible expenses covering program costs for new and existing programs, as well as reasonable staff and volunteer time. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not explicitly detailed as quantifiable metrics, the program's structure implies a theory of change focused on supporting established, effective programs that align with MartinFed's values. The geographic focus areas—including Huntsville/Madison County, AL; Little Rock/Pulaski County, AR; Central Maryland/Washington, DC; Starkville, MS; Oak Ridge & Knoxville, TN; and Houston/Harris County, TX—indicate a strategic approach to local community investment. The emphasis on integrity, mission alignment, and specific focus areas suggests that MartinFed's strategic priority is to empower organizations that have a proven track record of making a tangible difference within these targeted communities and fields.

The Maternal and Pediatric Health Grants for 2024 focus on improving health outcomes for birthing people and children in Arkansas. Grant categories include Adverse Childhood Experiences Solutions, Child Development Support, Education and Outreach, Postpartum Care Support, Maternal and Infant Health Disparities, Maternal Mortality Improvement Solutions, Prenatal Healthcare, and Pediatric Healthcare. The Letters of Intent period is from April 1 to April 12, 2024, with application invitations sent by April 26, 2024. The final application deadline is May 17, 2024, and awards will be announced on August 13, 2024.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and public entities in specific U.S. regions for initiatives addressing homelessness, STEM education, veterans' services, and support for women and children.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to community organizations in the Southern U.S. that advocate for and protect the rights and well-being of Black girls, women, and femme-identifying youth.