There is still time to apply for the SIU Foundation Women’s Leadership Council 2024-25 WLC Microgrant, a funding opportunity available exclusively to SIU women faculty, staff, and students.

The deadline to apply is Monday, Dec. 9. Award finalists will be notified by Feb. 6. Interviews will be Feb. 24, and grants will be awarded on May 1. Fill out the application here: siuf.org/wlc/grant.php.

Since 2020, the WLC has united alumnae, parents, and friends dedicated to empowering women and advancing women-driven philanthropy at SIU. Council members contribute their time, energy, resources, and expertise serving on university boards and championing SIU in their home regions. Embodying a legacy of leadership, WLC collectively funds women’s initiatives and scholarships on campus.

This is an opportunity to put your vision into action with the support of a council committed to women’s empowerment.

Here are some important notes to consider when applying:

• There is no guarantee that your application will move forward to the interview round.
• You are encouraged to submit a focused and strategic application.
• WLC is not a flow-through for other non-profit organizations. The goal is to impact student learning and experience, not fundraise for other philanthropies.
• Prioritization is given to new projects to provide seed money. Funding is not prioritized for continuing initiatives unless there is a significant new component or a compelling reason to consider sustaining funding after the first year.
• Please read the Grant Awards Application Instructions carefully as there are other parameters to consider when requesting funding.
• Funding is typically not granted for giveaways, prizes, or food.
• Funding is not allowed to be used as salaries or stipends.