Women have come a long way in the past generation when it comes to equality in education and the workplace, but there is still a way to go. Many organizations or foundations provide grants especially for women in various fields, or to help women with healthcare or other personal needs.
The Amber Foundation Grant
Named after a young woman who died at the age of 19, the Amber Foundation Grant funds small, women-owned start-up businesses. Awards range from $500 to $1000, and should be used for equipment upgrades, website development and other basic needs of the start-up company. Awarded on a quarterly basis, applicants should be very specific about what their needs are and how they would use the funding should the application be approved.
Women's Sports Foundation Grants
Dedicated to the female athlete and women's physical fitness, the Women's Sports Foundation funds several awards. Founded by tennis great Billie Jean King, the foundation awards grants on a national basis, but due to strong community support focuses on grants in the Chicago, Boston, San Antonio and Atlanta metro areas. Each year, grants are awarded to two women pursuing graduate degrees in physical education, sports psychology or sociology or sports management. Other grants go to organizations improving women's' health through education and promotion of physical activity.
Cis B. Golder Quality of Life Grant
Women afflicted with breast cancer in the Philadelphia area may apply for the Cis B. Golder Quality of Life Grant. This grant awards small amounts of money to women diagnosed with breast cancer for quality of life improvement and treatment. Only women in need may apply for these one-time grants. Monies are paid directly to service providers. Funds may be used to make mortgage or rent payments, pay for utilities, groceries, pharmaceutical products, transportation and child care. Items related to treatment, such as wigs, complementary therapies or breast prosthesis are also eligible.
American Association of University Women Grants
The American Association of University Women provides grants to women in various disciplines. These include career development grants, especially targeted to women of color or those pursuing a first advanced degree in a field not traditionally open to females. Grants may be used for tuition, transportation, fees and dependent care. Only U.S. citizens or permanent residents may apply. The AAUW Community Action Grant provides funding to non-profit organizations for programs promoting equality and education for women.
