Iowa Women's Foundation Core Grants

Iowa Women's Foundation Core Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Iowa Womens Foundation
Amount: Up to US $50,000
Last Updated: March 29, 2026

Summary

The Iowa Women's Foundation Core Grants aim to support organizations that address barriers to women's economic self-sufficiency in Iowa. Since 1997, over $2 million has been awarded to initiatives that offer housing, transportation, education, employment, childcare, and mentorship. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and licensed childcare centers. The foundation encourages innovative solutions that empower women and girls, fostering their independence and leadership within the community.

Overview

Note: IWF no longer has a separate process for childcare grants. Only one application required! Grantmaking Grantmaking is at the heart of IWF’s work. Since 1997, we have awarded over $2 million to more than 350 programs that expand opportunities for women and girls across Iowa. IWF provides two grant opportunities to organizations whose work aligns with our mission. Applications are welcome from organizations with 501(c)(3) status, licensed child care centers, and other grassroots organizations serving Iowa’s women and girls. Core Grants IWF awards annual Core Grants to organizations that tackle at least one of the six identified barriers to women’s economic self-sufficiency: HousingIWF funds initiatives that assist women and children experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. Examples may include emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, and life-skills programs to maintain stable housing.TransportationIWF funds initiatives that help women obtain safe and quality means of transportation. Examples may include assistance with finding and securing a vehicle, financial-lending and credit-building education, vehicle maintenance skill-building, and financial support for registration and title fees.Education & TrainingIWF funds initiatives that prepares women and girls to enter the workforce or advance within their field. Examples may include job-specific training, apprenticeship programs, financial literacy education, and employment readiness programs.EmploymentIWF funds initiatives that supports women in seeking or maintaining employment. Examples may include resume-writing and job-application assistance, employment retention curriculum, and career advancement programs.ChildcareIWF funds initiatives that increase access to quality and affordable childcare. Examples may include center expansion, furniture and equipment purchasing, training curricula for new providers, before/after-school programming, and efforts to increase options for second/third-shift workers.MentorshipIWF funds initiatives that encourage women to share their talents to inspire a new generation of female leaders. Examples may include professional networking programs, career exploration programs, role model pairing programs, and leadership skills and self-esteem building programs.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Core Grants are awarded to:501(c)3 organizations or licensed childcare facilities.Registered in-home providers included.Serving women and/or girls in Iowa.Don’t need to exclusively serve women or girls.Tackling at least one of the six barriers listed above.

Ineligibility

Ineligible Requests:Capital campaignsReimbursement for previously incurred expensesFunds are to be used between October 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026Political candidate campaignsPromotion of religious activities