The AAUW Community Action Grants are designed to support projects that promote education and equity for women and girls in grades K-12. These grants are available to nonprofit organizations, universities, and AAUW branches and state organizations. The American Association of University Women, which has a long-standing commitment to advancing educational opportunities for women and girls, has funded numerous initiatives since its inception in 1972. The grants range from $8,000 to $20,000, with a specific focus on projects that have a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) component, reflecting AAUW's interest in enhancing educational opportunities in these fields.

The primary purpose of the Community Action Grants is to fund projects that serve communities in the United States or its territories, particularly those that are geographically or demographically underserved. The grants aim to foster educational equity and empower women and girls through various initiatives. Projects that provide general operating support are also encouraged to apply, as they align with the overarching goals of the AAUW.

Eligible applicants must be incorporated as a nonprofit organization with a federally designated tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service code. This includes AAUW branches and state organizations that hold either 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) tax-exempt status. The AAUW prioritizes projects that serve underserved communities, and applicants who have previously received a Community Action Grant must wait three years before reapplying. Notably, members of the AAUW Board of Directors, employees of AAUW, and their immediate families are ineligible to apply.

The application process requires detailed submission of project proposals, which should clearly outline the objectives, target audience, and expected outcomes of the project. Applicants are encouraged to provide information on how their projects will address the needs of women and girls in their communities. The evaluation criteria for the grants include the project's potential impact, feasibility, and alignment with AAUW's mission of promoting education and equity.

The timeline for the grant application process includes a deadline for submissions on November 15, 2024. The grant period will run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. It is important for applicants to adhere to these deadlines to ensure their proposals are considered. For further inquiries, applicants can contact AAUW via email or phone for assistance.

In summary, the AAUW Community Action Grants provide a valuable opportunity for nonprofit organizations and educational institutions to secure funding for projects that advance education and equity for women and girls. With a focus on STEM initiatives and support for underserved communities, these grants aim to create lasting change and empower future generations. Interested applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria and prepare their proposals in accordance with the submission requirements to maximize their chances of receiving funding.