Project Description
Women Veterans Giving, Inc. (WVG) launched the Women Veterans Empowerment & Leadership Initiative to provide targeted support for women transitioning from military to civilian life. Our project focuses on breaking down barriers to entrepreneurship, professional development, and leadership opportunities that women veterans too often face after service.
Through this initiative, WVG delivers three interconnected programs:
Melissa Washington Small Business Award – Annual grants awarded to women veterans to launch or expand small businesses, paired with mentorship to strengthen long-term sustainability.
Unconference Scholarships – Financial support for women veterans to attend the annual Women Veterans Unconference, a unique event offering networking, leadership development, and peer-to-peer support.
Professional Development Micro-Grants – Flexible grants that cover certifications, trainings, and educational opportunities to enhance career advancement and employability.
Our Goals:
Support at least 50 women veterans annually through grants and scholarships.
Increase the number of veteran-owned businesses led by women.
Build a nationwide community of empowered women veterans who serve as leaders, mentors, and changemakers.
Impact to Date:
Since 2018, WVG has provided direct financial support and professional development opportunities to dozens of women veterans. Awardees have gone on to start businesses, secure leadership roles, and achieve certifications that increase their career mobility. Testimonials highlight that WVG programs not only provide funding but also build confidence, community, and a sense of belonging.
Why This Project Matters:
Women veterans represent the fastest-growing veteran population, yet they remain underrepresented in entrepreneurship, leadership, and professional spaces. Many face systemic barriers during their transition to civilian life. This project ensures women veterans have the resources, networks, and confidence to thrive, creating ripple effects that strengthen families, communities, and the economy.
Geographic Reach:
Nationwide – with a growing network of women veterans across the United States.
Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 4: Quality Education – providing training and scholarships.
SDG 5: Gender Equality – empowering women veterans as leaders.
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – supporting entrepreneurship and career advancement.
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – addressing inequities in veteran reintegration.
