Improving economic opportunities to advance equality
Expanding economic inclusion for marginalised women, trans and non-binary people.
The challenge
Despite more women working today than in previous decades, they continue to earn less, own less, and retire with less. Women across Europe are still more likely to work part-time and spend more hours on unpaid caregiving responsibilities.
They also remain underrepresented in higher-paying fields like science and technology. This is particularly true for marginalised women who face multiple layers of discrimination.
Workplaces are not always safe: one in three women has experienced sexual harassment at work. Women of colour and marginalised LGBTQ+ people face higher risks of discrimination, exploitation, and abuse.
When women, trans and non-binary people have resources, opportunities, and support to lead, entire communities move forward. Economic opportunities reduce poverty and domestic violence, and improve access to healthcare, safety, and rights for all.
Our contribution
Addressing root causes
We support grassroots gender equality organisations tackling the root causes of economic exclusion, ranging from advocating for fair pay to combating discrimination and harassment.
Empowering women and marginalised communities
We support efforts to uplift marginalised women and gender minorities, enabling them to unlock their confidence and talents, pursue their dreams, and gain greater financial independence.
Creating lasting change
By ensuring that no one is left behind, our funding aims to reduce the risk of domestic violence and poverty while increasing access to health and rights for entire communities.
Key figures
million delivered to 34 organisations.
countries with supported initiatives.
people directly supported and 18 million people impacted overall.
Grantees' impact
Over 13,000 marginalised people were empowered into quality employment.
43 new women of colour-led and queer-led businesses were registered.
8 million workers have stronger protections against workplace harassment and violence, thanks to sustained grassroots advocacy.
Over 200 companies were trained on inclusive workplace practices.
10,000 care sector workers benefited from pay rises, thanks to collective action.
Apply for our grants
We are currently not accepting applications.
Please sign up to our newsletter to hear more about future opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply?
Small and medium grassroots gender equality organisations working with marginalised women, transgender, non-binary and gender non-conforming people.
Grassroot organisations are defined as being strongly grounded in, having direct relationships with and are accountable to the communities they support. This includes legally registered non-profit organisations: non-governmental civil society organisations, social enterprises, national or regional funds.
What are the aims of this funding?
This funding is aimed at driving impactful and sustainable community-driven solutions that promote economic opportunities for marginalised women, transgender, non-binary and gender non-conforming people in Europe. This funding is intended to further the Alliance’s vision of a just and fair European society where gender equality is achieved for all people.
Economic opportunities can be understood as the new pathways to jobs, entrepreneurship and financial opportunities to previously under-served social groups. The Alliance acknowledges that economic opportunities depend on a variety of underlying factors, including education, training and skills, public services and infrastructure, affordable housing, access to healthcare, and social networks. Other factors such as gender and racial stereotypes, safety at home, physical and mental health, caretaking responsibilities, and debt may be barriers to accessing economic opportunities.
The Alliance believes in a holistic approach where improving the lives of individuals goes hand-in-hand with pushing for systemic change.
Who should applicant organisations be working with or supporting?
Applicant organisations should be led by, working with or supporting marginalised women, transgender, non-binary or gender non-conforming people of working age with one or more of the following characteristics: are low-income; have a migration and/or ethnic minority background; are victims or survivors of violence; live in rural or disadvantaged areas; are disabled or are living in situation of disability; are perceived as young, i.e at an early stage in the job market; are perceived as old, i.e at a late stage in the job market.
What activities are funded?
All types of activities are eligible i.e capacity-building (training, mentoring, coaching, empowerment for both individuals and organisations), service provision, and influencing (network building, research, awareness-raising, advocacy and policy work). Proposals can contain one or several types of activities.
Can I request project or core funding?
You can request project or core funding. For core support, all types of costs are accepted, including costs incurred by the organisation not targeted at specific activities/projects, such as salaries, staff training, rent, office costs, and equipment.
Can the grant be used for co-financing a larger project?
Yes, if the project fits all of our eligibility and selection criteria.
How much can an organisation request?
Each proposal must request a minimum of 60 000€ and a maximum of 150 000€. You cannot request less than 60 000€ or more than 150 000€.
Can a new organisation apply for the grant?
A newly created organisation can apply for the grant.
What is the eligible duration?
For each call for proposals, we fund organisations for two years. Expenses would need to be incurred during the contract period with the Alliance.
Can you apply in a language other than English?
The application form must be completed in English. Our multinational jury will work in English as a common language.
Can I preview the form?
We are currently not accepting applications. Please sign up to our newsletter to hear more about future opportunities.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Join our community and stay up to date with the latest news, insights, and stories from our work.