The UN Women Advocacy Initiatives on Gender Equality grant is designed to strengthen the capacity of civil society organisations to promote gender equality and assist women in communities across eligible regions. This initiative supports projects that advance women’s rights and create sustainable social change. It provides organisations with an opportunity to implement effective strategies that foster equality and inclusion.
About the UN Women Advocacy Initiatives on Gender Equality
This grant forms part of the Strong Civic Space for Gender Equality Phase II project, which focuses on creating enabling environments for women. Aside from women, marginalised groups are also assisted to participate in social, political, and economic life.
Funded by UN Women, the initiative supports programs that train women to become leaders, protect their rights, and advocate for policies that reduce gender differences. Projects include awareness campaigns, advocacy training, community engagement and policy research.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: $20,000–$50,000
- Maximum award: $75,000
- Project duration supported: up to twelve months
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Who Can Apply for the UN Women Advocacy Initiatives on Gender Equality
Eligible organisation types
- Registered local NGOs
- Community-based organisations
- Advocacy groups working on women’s rights
- Research or policy institutions focusing on gender equality
Registration or legal documents
- Valid NGO or organisational registration certificate
- Tax identification number or equivalent
- Proof of non-profit or civil society status
- Legal documentation of operational compliance
Project focus requirements
- Advocacy initiatives targeting gender equality
- Capacity building for women-led organisations
- Initiatives promoting civic participation of women and marginalised groups
- Research or campaigns addressing systemic gender inequalities
Geographic eligibility
- Eligible countries in Eastern Europe and Central Asia
- Priority given to underrepresented and rural areas
- Projects focusing on local community-level engagement
Sector or thematic focus
- Women Advocacy
- Gender equality policy advocacy
- Civic engagement and social inclusion
- Capacity building for civil society
Application Process
- Submit your expression of interest (EOI) form to: turkiye.cfp@unwomen.org with the e-mail subject line: Expression of Interest – Organisation Name
- Complete the EOI form, stating solutions to the problems
- Attach all documentation, including registration certificates and financial statements
- Submit by the specified deadline indicated on the UN Women portal
- Review and shortlisting of eligible applications by UN Women officials
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Required Materials
- Completed expression of interest form
- Organisational registration and legal documents
- Project proposal including objectives, methodology, and expected impact
- Detailed budget and justification
- CVs or profiles of key project staff
- Letters of support or collaboration agreements (if applicable)
Key Dates
- Application opening date: February 1, 2026
- Application closing date: March 15, 2026
- Review and evaluation period: March 16–April 15, 2026
- Announcement of results: April 30, 2026
Selection Notes
- The grant is highly competitive, with priority given to innovative and high-impact initiatives
- Projects that demonstrate clear advocacy strategies, measurable outcomes, and sustainable impact are favored
- Non-profit companies, organisations without proper registration, and projects not directly aligned with gender equality or women’s empowerment are excluded
