Programs at BWF

Established in 1984, BWF was the first women’s foundation in Massachusetts, and is one of the oldest women’s foundations nationally. Our mission is to promote social, political, racial, and economic justice for women and girls through grantmaking, technical assistance, educational and empowerment projects, and advocating for increased funding for social change within the philanthropic community. We utilize a number of vehicles to fulfill our mission.

Grantmaking - We provide funding to organizations run by and for women and girls who are working to create a society based on racial, economic, and social justice. Click here to learn more about our grants program.

Technical Assistance - We work with grantee organizations to enhance their opportunities to gain other sources of funding, introduce them to likeminded organizations, and to provide information that can help them to make their case. Sometimes this support is provided individually to organizations seeking help. At other times, we hold educational forums through our Organizing Institute. Click here to learn more about the Organizing Institute.

Young Sisters for Justice in Philanthropy (YSFJP) - The purpose of YSFJP is to develop and enhance the leadership skills of young women (ages 14 - 18) who are interested in learning to fundraise for social and economic justice. Each session of Young Sisters for Justice in Philanthropy is 2 years long and involves approximately ten young women. Click here to learn more about YSFJP.