Apply for AWIU Global Micro-Grants 2026

Application Deadline: 16 April 2026

About the Grants

American Women for International Understanding (AWIU) provides grants to grassroots women’s groups in low and middle-income countries for short-term, concrete projects. These projects typically support advancement for women in the areas of education, skill training, health, and entrepreneurship. The AWIU Global Micro-Grants program aims to empower women at the community level by funding initiatives that create measurable and sustainable impact. Since its inception, the program has supported numerous grassroots projects worldwide, enabling women to gain new skills, improve their health outcomes, access educational opportunities, and develop entrepreneurial capacities that enhance their economic independence.

Grant Benefits

• Grant Size: Up to USD $3,000 per project
• One-time funding for specific, time-limited initiatives
• Funds are disbursed directly to qualifying women’s groups

Eligibility Requirements

Preference is given to projects that meet the following criteria:

• Women-led: The project must be initiated and managed by women
• Concrete in nature: Projects should have clear, tangible outcomes and deliverables
• Time-limited: Initiatives should have a defined timeframe for completion
• Focused on priority areas: Education, health, or entrepreneurial development
• Quantifiable outcomes: Projects must demonstrate measurable results
• Potential multiplier effect: Initiatives that benefit multiple women or have ripple effects within the community are prioritized
• Budget compliance: Total project cost must not exceed USD 3,000
• Verifiable references: Two references must be provided to support the application

Eligible Countries

Grants are available to grassroots women’s groups in low and middle-income countries as classified by the World Bank. Applicants should verify their country’s eligibility status before applying.

Projects that are not considered

The following types of projects are typically not considered for funding:

• Ongoing operational costs or salaries
• Large-scale infrastructure projects
• Individual scholarships or sponsorships
• Projects in high-income countries
• Initiatives without clear women’s leadership or focus

Application Process

Applications must be submitted through the official AWIU grants portal and should include:

• Completed application form
• Detailed project description with clear objectives
• Itemized budget not exceeding USD 3,000
• Timeline for project implementation
• Information about the women-led group
• Two verifiable references with contact information
• Expected outcomes and measurement plan

To apply click here

Selection Process

Applications are reviewed by AWIU’s Grants Committee, which evaluates each proposal based on alignment with program priorities, feasibility, potential impact, and clarity of objectives. Successful applicants are notified within several weeks of the deadline.

For More Information: Visit the Official Webpage of the AWIU Global Micro-Grants