Giving Women

How can the Social Enterprise model help close the funding gap?
2026-02-19 12:15 - 13:30 (Europe/Paris) | https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86981622639
Context

At a time when funding is increasingly difficult to secure while needs continue to rise, many organisations are under intense pressure. Migrant populations are at record levels due to conflict and climate crises, girls’ completion of primary and secondary education is declining, and access to healthcare remains a struggle. The challenges are overwhelming.
What we will explore
Thursday 19 February, 12.15pm CET (online) : Join us for an online conversation moderated by Zoya Siddiqui from Acumen, an organisation that recognised early on the potential of the social enterprise model. Together, we will explore how this approach can help organisations build more resilient, financially sustainable models.
We will highlight and hear from three grassroots organisations applying this model in the field: Aavishkaar Centre (India), Project Maji (Africa), and Womengro Initiative (Uganda). We will also be joined by the Elea Foundation for Ethics in Globalisation, which supports social entrepreneurs through its philanthropic giving, to share the funder perspective on what helps these models thrive.
Panelists
Moderator:
Zoya Siddiqui, Development and Partnerships Manager at Acumen Europe
Expert perspective:
Lisa Jean-Mairet, Executive Director, Elea Foundation for Ethics in Globalisation
Voices from the field (highlighted organisations):
– Prapti Bhasin, CEO, Aavishkaar Centre, India
– Sunil Lalvani, Founder, Project Maji, Africa
– Lilian Nakigozi, Founder, Womengro Initiative Uganda

Giving Women Informal Apero – Geneva
2026-03-23 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/Helsinki) | Giving Women Office, Rue du Mont-Blanc 4, Geneva, 1201, Switzerland
Join us at the Giving Women offices for an informal apero to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how you can be part of a community of action philanthropists.
Giving Women is a community of informed women philanthropists committed to improving the lives of girls and women in underserved communities around the world. Our vision is simple yet powerful: a world where every woman and every girl has access, choices, and agency.
Whether you are curious about becoming a member, interested in volunteering your expertise, or simply want to better understand our work, this evening offers an opportunity to connect, ask questions, and meet members of the Giving Women community.
We look forward to welcoming you at our offices on 23 March.

Membership kick-off
2026-03-27 13:00 - 14:00 (Europe/Zurich) | Zoom
Our membership kick-off meeting is designed to help you confidently begin your journey within our community of informed women philanthropists.
In this informal one-hour session, you will discover how Giving Women works and how our model of Action Philanthropy translates intention into meaningful, lasting impact for girls and women in underserved communities around the world.
You will gain insight into our three pillars:

Project Circles – where small groups of members accompany grassroots organisations over 18-24 months, working on real strategic challenges to strengthen their long-term sustainability.

Learning & Workshops – equipping members and partners with the knowledge and tools to act thoughtfully and effectively.

Panels & Conversations – creating space to explore complex issues and amplify the voices of women who are too often unheard.

The session will also walk you through the different ways you can engage — whether by joining a Project Circle, contributing your professional expertise, becoming an Ambassador, or supporting one of our committees.
No preparation is required, simply bring your curiosity and enthusiasm.
We look forward to welcoming you and supporting you as you begin your Giving Women journey.

If you are not yet a member but would like to attend to learn more about Giving Women, please email us.
