Applications are now open for Northern Rivers Community Foundation’s (NRCF) 2026 Empowering Women & Girls Grant, offering local not-for-profit organisations the opportunity to secure funding for projects that empower women and girls across the Northern Rivers.
Funded through the NRCF Women’s Giving Circle, the annual grant program supports grassroots initiatives that create meaningful change for women and girls, helping to address inequality and disadvantage while building stronger, more connected communities.
Since launching in 2022, the Women’s Giving Circle has distributed more than $279,000 to 13 organisations across the Northern Rivers, supporting projects focused on leadership, wellbeing, social connection, cultural empowerment, inclusion and economic participation.
Applications now open
Applications are now open and eligible organisations can apply for grants of $20,000 to deliver projects that empower women and girls in the region, from a minimum grant pool of $60,000. Funding can support new initiatives, existing programs looking to expand or adapt, or projects seeking to strengthen their evidence base.
The Women’s Giving Circle encourages applications from organisations working across a range of areas, including leadership development, health and wellbeing, social connection, financial independence, advocacy, violence prevention and community participation.
Applications are especially encouraged from organisations supporting women who experience multiple forms of disadvantage, including First Nations women, women living with disability, migrant and refugee women, young women and girls, older women, and women experiencing housing or financial insecurity.
The power of local women
NRCF Community Impact Manager Kiri Dicker said the grants continue to demonstrate the power of local women investing in local solutions. ‘The Empowering Women & Girls Grant is one of the most tangible examples of local women creating change in their own communities,’ said Ms Dicker.
‘Through collective giving, Women’s Giving Circle members are investing in grassroots organisations that are improving the lives of women and girls across the Northern Rivers.
‘Every year we’re inspired by the quality of applications we receive and the innovative ways local organisations are responding to challenges and creating opportunities for women and girls to thrive.’
To support prospective applicants, NRCF will host a free online Grant Writing Webinar on Tuesday 23 June from 12.00pm to 1.30pm.
Applications close on Thursday 2 July 2026.
For grant guidelines, webinar registration and application details, visit www.nrcf.org.au/grants/empowering-women-and-girls-grant.
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