About: MWF was created in 2008 to financially support initiatives for women living in the Mediterranean region. In general, MWF’s goal is to strengthen women’s movements and also to build transnational networks, which could further enhance the political, social and economic positions of women in the region.
Geographical scope: the Mediterranean region.
Themes: The main goal of the Fund is to sponsor projects targeting the issue of gender equality in the region and, in particular,
- Capacity building of women’s organisations
- Regional women’s networks
- Activities raising awareness about violence against women
- Leadership by young women
- Advocacy and action for women’s rights
Additionally, the Fund develops specific themes for each of the interested countries in collaboration with its partner organisations. In doing so, the Fund wants to ensure that the most pressing issues are addressed in relation to the political context of each of the relevant countries.
Additional information: In 2013, MWF widened its grantmaking scope by establishing a training programme for women in the Mediterranean region. The trainings aim to improving vocational and analytical skills. For instance, trainings have been designed to better understand power relations in society and to build self-esteem. Also, trainings are given on how to build working relationships with other women organisations in the region and how to design collaborative projects. More information could be found here
Types of grants: Small grants – there is no indication in regards of the allocated budget for projects.
Individual grants could be given towards the participation to regional meetings aiming to strengthen the Mediterranean networks of women’s associations and also in the case of emergency need (enquiry directly to members of the association to know more about their parameters).
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be from a women’s organisation based in the Mediterranean region (organisations must be directed and governed by women, although the association could have male members). The applicant must demonstrate a clear commitment to women’s equality and women’s human rights.
- Priority is given to organisations with less than 5 years of experience in fundraising, organisations with no other funding or that cannot access governmental funding schemes, organisations based in country that receive little financial support from main development agencies and organisations that raise issues concerning to women’s rights.
- The Fund does not support individuals seeking for scholarships, organisations without a clear focus on women’s rights, for-profit organisations and charity, international organisations applying in partnership with local organisations, governmental bodies and organisations affiliated to political groups.
How to apply: First of all, you should download the Request for Information Form from here . You will be asked to fill in a 2-page document with basic information about your organisation, its history, its main goals and a brief description of the proposed activities. Only selected applicants will be invited to submit an application (further information will be given to successful candidates). The Fund will assess your proposal within 3 weeks.
The activities of MWF could also be followed on Facebook by searching the page Mediterranean Women’s Fund – Fonds pour les Femmes en Méditerranée.
Deadlines: There are no specific deadlines.
