The SHE’s BRIGHT - Supporting Her Empowerment: Building Resilient Initiatives and Girls’ Hope Together program, funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues (S/GWI), seeks to address gender-based violence (GBV) through girl-led initiatives. The program focuses on preventing and responding to harmful practices such as female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) and child, early, and forced marriage (CEFM). The initiative emphasizes empowering girl-led groups and networks to implement locally driven solutions, advocate for systemic change, and engage key stakeholders to promote gender equality and safety.

A total of approximately $493,339 is available for this opportunity, with one award anticipated. Projects are expected to span two to three years, beginning no later than September 30, 2025. Applications will be funded as cooperative agreements, allowing for substantial federal involvement in planning, implementation, and monitoring. Cost-sharing is not required. The program is open to U.S.- and foreign-based nonprofits, NGOs, public entities, and institutions of higher education, with a preference for organizations experienced in GBV prevention and girl-focused programming.

Eligible projects must be implemented in one of the specified priority countries or regions: Niger, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Indonesia, Nepal, or West Africa. Proposed activities should directly involve girls and young women aged 10-19, prioritizing local, girl-led initiatives. Applications should also demonstrate safeguarding measures to ensure the safety and security of beneficiaries. S/GWI mandates that at least 40% of the funding supports local organizations and activities.

To apply, organizations must first submit a concise Statement of Interest (SOI) by February 25, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET. The SOI must outline program objectives, proposed activities, and anticipated results, adhering to S/GWI's detailed formatting and submission guidelines. Applications must be submitted electronically through MyGrants or Grants.gov. Selected applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal for further consideration.

The program goals include reducing rates of FGM/C and CEFM by building the leadership capacity of girls and fostering collaboration between girl-led groups and stakeholders. Suggested activities include small grants for girl-led initiatives, training workshops, mentorship programs, and community dialogues. Monitoring, evaluation, and learning plans should include outcome-based metrics, such as changes in community attitudes, increased leadership skills among participants, and documented reductions in harmful practices.

Applications will be evaluated on organizational capacity, project strategy, safeguarding and equity measures, and plans for local engagement and sustainability. Priority will be given to projects demonstrating alignment with U.S. foreign policy goals and S/GWI’s strategic objectives. All selected projects must comply with federal regulations and adhere to the specific provisions outlined in the notice of funding opportunity.