Women's Foundation of Genesee Valley

The Women's Foundation of Genesee Valley is a grant-making organization dedicated to promoting economic self-sufficiency for women and girls in Rochester, NY and the surrounding seven-county region. Since 1994, the Foundation has distributed over $2 million in grants to programs with direct, positive impact on the economic status of women and girls in the community. The organization operates through equitable philanthropy and transformative community partnerships, leveraging community expertise to identify and fund high-impact initiatives.

The Foundation's comprehensive approach includes grant making, educational programming, research, and advocacy. Through strategic partnerships with community agencies, foundations, and corporations, WFGV addresses systemic barriers that limit women's access to capital, networks, and resources needed for business growth and economic mobility. The organization recognizes that women represent nearly 40% of all U.S. businesses and nearly 40% of small businesses in New York State, yet continue to face significant gaps in pay equity, leadership representation, and access to funding.

A cornerstone program, the Girls Initiative, empowers over 600 teen girls annually through mentorship and community partnerships, helping them overcome challenges, stay in school, set career goals, and contribute to their communities. The Foundation's volunteer-driven model ensures that local women raise, manage, and distribute funds, creating authentic community engagement and accountability. Based in Rochester, the Women's Foundation of Genesee Valley delivers measurable results by striving for excellence and promoting greater social change that makes a true difference in the lives of women and girls impacted by poverty.