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Immediate Response Action Fund (IRAF)

WOMENS WAY

Funding Amount

Varies

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Immediate Response Action Fund (IRAF)

Status: Active ongoing program

Geographic Scope: Greater Philadelphia region

Program Focus:
Rapid response funding designed to meet urgent and unanticipated needs of community organizations that cannot be served through traditional twice-yearly grant cycles.

Key Features:

  • Fastest response rate in the region: Decisions made within 10 business days

  • Created in 2017 to address time-sensitive community needs

  • Flexible funding model for organizations facing emergencies or unexpected challenges

  • Provides unrestricted funding for immediate organizational needs
  • Background:
    The IRAF model was instrumental during COVID-19 pandemic response, demonstrating the effectiveness of rapid-turnaround grantmaking. It informed the design of the 2025 Rapid Response General Operating Fund (RRGOF).

    Application: Rolling basis with 10 business day decision timeline

    Contact:

  • Email: info@womensway.org

  • Phone: 215-985-3322

  • Address: 1617 John F Kennedy Blvd. Suite #2043, Philadelphia, PA 19103
  • How to Apply

    Application Process

    Rolling Basis Applications:
    1. Submit application on rolling basis (no fixed deadlines)
    2. Receive funding decision within 10 business days of completed application
    3. Fastest approval timeline in the Greater Philadelphia region

    Expected Application Components:

  • Description of immediate/urgent need

  • How funds will be used

  • Impact on organization and communities served

  • Basic organizational information
  • Note: No detailed application information provided on website; contact WOMEN'S WAY directly for current guidelines and application portal.

    Focus Areas & Funding Uses

    Fields of Work

    nonprofitsunrestricted-nonprofitsoperating-support

    Categories

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