19,000 applications, 160+ Countries
When we opened applications for the September Giving Joy micro-grants, we hoped to hear from women building something meaningful in their communities. We didn't expect 19,000 of you! That's the most applications Giving Joy has ever received.
Applications came from over 160 countries and territories on every inhabited continent. They came from Lagos and Kabul, Kampala and Kyiv, Atlanta and Port Moresby. Nigeria sent more than half of all applications, followed by the United States, Kenya, Afghanistan and Uganda. Some countries sent just one application, and we're thrilled to have heard from each of them.
A few things stood out:
Women are building, not just dreaming. More than a third of applicants have been running their business or organization for over a year. One in six is starting from just an idea, and we love the initiative.
Grassroots, hands-on projects. Applicants are sewing and tailoring, farming and raising poultry, baking and selling food, making soap and crafts, running salons, tutoring, and teaching computer skills.
Many languages, one mission. Women applied in English, French, Arabic, Persian, Ukrainian, Spanish and Portuguese.
Word of mouth works. More than 200 applicants heard about us from a past Giving Joy grant winner.
AI is spreading the word. About 870 applicants found us through ChatGPT, Claude or another AI tool. That's more than came from events and past winners combined!
What happens next
Review period: Now through November 30, 2026. We will only notify shortlisted applicants during this period.
Notification deadline: If you have not heard from Giving Joy by December 1, your application was not successful.
Awards announced: Beginning of December.
Our volunteer reviewers are now reading every application with care. Thank you to every woman who shared her story with us, and to our community for spreading the word. Stay tuned for our grantee announcement!