Rhode Island Foundation’s Miss Swinburne Fund Grants

The Miss Swinburne Fund Grants are administered by the Rhode Island Foundation and support nonprofit organizations that promote the self-sufficiency and independence of girls and women in Newport County, Rhode Island. The fund was established in 2002 by the Civic League of Newport in honor of Miss Elizabeth Swinburne, a civic leader of the early 1900s who was dedicated to educating young women in household arts and practical skills. The fund continues her legacy by providing financial support for programs that empower and educate women and girls in Newport County.

Grants from this fund are awarded annually to nonprofit organizations that offer programs, services, or scholarships designed to improve the lives of women and girls in Newport County. Programs that lead to certifications, degrees, or formal credentials are especially encouraged, though general support for self-sufficiency initiatives is also considered. Organizations that receive funding through the Miss Swinburne Fund are not restricted from applying to other grant opportunities administered by the Rhode Island Foundation.

Applications for the 2025 grant cycle must be submitted by 3:00 p.m. (EST) on April 7, 2025. Applicants should be aware that no technical assistance will be available after 5:00 p.m. (EST) on the deadline date. Applications will be available six weeks prior to the deadline, and all submissions must be completed online through the Foundation’s grant portal.

A complete application package includes a Small Grant Programs application form and a budget form, both of which must be submitted electronically. Organizations that have already started an application may log into their accounts to complete and submit the form.

For assistance, applicants may contact Monica Benson, the Scholarship and Special Funds Administrator, at (401) 427-4017. Additional inquiries can be directed to the Rhode Island Foundation’s main office at (401) 274-4564 or via email at info@rifoundation.org. The Foundation’s address is One Union Station, Providence, RI 02903.