Giving Joy is calling on women entrepreneurs worldwide to apply for its 2026 grant cycles, looking for those whose “dreams are big enough” to spark community change.
The organization prioritizes innovative and creative projects that move beyond personal growth to create real social impact for women and girls.
To streamline operations and better serve applicants, Giving Joy has shifted to two comprehensive global cycles per year starting this spring.
This new model allows for clearer timelines and a more supportive experience for the thousands of women who apply each round.
Funding and benefits
Successful applicants will receive microgrants of up to $500 USD to kickstart or expand their businesses, NGOs, or specific community projects.
These grants are awarded to between five and ten winners per cycle, focusing on ideas with strong potential for social transformation.
The funding is designed to be highly effective, supporting the purchase of specific equipment or the implementation of local workshops and trainings.
Applicants are encouraged to be as detailed as possible in their estimated budgets to show exactly how the funds will move their project forward.
Awardees benefit from a six-month implementation period to realize their vision, backed by a mission to strengthen women’s dignity and economic independence.
The grant acts as a catalyst for ideas that create lasting opportunities and skills for women and their families.
Application requirements and eligibility
The competition is open to women ages 18 and up from any country, state, or territory in the world, regardless of their specific field of trade.
Applicants do not need to own an existing business; they can use the grant to start a new venture or a non-profit organization.
Candidates must submit an online application with a clear budget, explaining exactly how the funds will benefit multiple women, families, or communities.
The selection board values real impact and initiative over polished writing, ensuring that practical ideas are given priority.
While projects must be legal and focused on women’s well-being, applications are accepted in any language that can be translated using Google Translate.
This inclusive policy ensures that language barriers do not prevent talented entrepreneurs from accessing support.
Deadline
Applications for the Spring 2026 cycle open on April 1 and must be submitted by April 30, 2026, while the Fall cycle begins accepting proposals on September 1.
Successful candidates for the first round will be announced in June, marking the start of a new chapter for global female leadership.
To apply, visit the Giving Joy call page. Visit our global opportunities page for.
Summary not available at this time.