AAUW International Project Grants 2026 | Apply Now for Funding up to $15,000

Applications are now open for the AAUW International Project Grants 2026, an initiative designed to empower women leaders and change-makers across the globe. This competitive grant program provides financial support of up to $15,000 to alumnae of the AAUW International Fellowship who return to their home countries to implement impactful, community-based projects.

The program is rooted in AAUW’s mission to advance equity for women and girls through education, research, and leadership. By supporting alumnae-led initiatives, AAUW ensures that women who have benefited from academic opportunities abroad can use their skills, expertise, and networks to drive sustainable change at home.

These projects address some of the most pressing equity challenges worldwide — from protecting property rights for widows and fighting systemic gender discrimination to establishing safer, more dignified workplaces for women in industries such as agriculture and manufacturing. Through these grants, alumnae are empowered to build innovative solutions that not only meet local needs but also inspire long-term community transformation.

Grant Benefits

• Each selected alumna receives up to $15,000 in funding.
• The grant term runs from July 1 – June 30, allowing recipients a full year to plan, implement, and evaluate their projects.
• Funding can be used to design and implement initiatives that address gender-based inequities, strengthen women’s leadership, and expand opportunities for girls.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the AAUW International Project Grants 2026, applicants must:

• Identify as a woman.
• Be a past recipient of the AAUW International Fellowship who has successfully completed her academic program and submitted all final fellowship reports by June 30, 2026.
• Reside in and implement the proposed project within their home country for the duration of the grant period.
• In cases where displacement due to conflict, political instability, or humanitarian crises prevents residency in the home country, applicants may implement their projects in their current country of residence. However, they must demonstrate a meaningful connection to the community and clearly explain how the project addresses local challenges.
• Serve as the primary project director, with control over program design, budget, administration, and execution.
• Lead a project that creates a direct, measurable, and positive impact for women and girls.
• Be a non-U.S. citizen or non-permanent resident.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on the following key factors:

• Alignment with AAUW’s mission: The proposed project must directly advance equity for women and girls.
• Strong rationale: A clear statement of the local issue being addressed, backed by data, assessments, or community input.
• Project design and outcomes: A realistic, measurable plan with specific goals, activities, and expected results.
• Capacity of the alumna: Evidence of the applicant’s leadership, skills, and ability to successfully deliver the project.
• Sustainability and stakeholder involvement: A budget and timeline that reflect community input and ensure long-term impact.
• Commitment to evaluation: A monitoring and assessment plan that demonstrates how outcomes will be tracked and lessons shared.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit:

1. A comprehensive project proposal outlining goals, rationale, activities, and expected impact.
2. A detailed project budget.

Applications must be submitted through the AAUW online portal.

Click here to apply: https://aauw.fluxx.io/user_sessions/new