R220K Women Grant – The highly sought-after R220,000 Women’s Empowerment Grant by the United Nations is returning with a fresh round of funding—and thousands of women across South Africa are scrambling to prepare in time. The first round of applications saw an overwhelming number of successful female entrepreneurs and community builders receive direct financial support, mentoring, and international exposure. If you missed it the first time, now is your chance to act. This UN-backed grant program is part of a global push to advance women’s economic inclusion through strategic funding, targeting those in disadvantaged communities, especially in Africa. The previous intake closed earlier this year, leaving many women disappointed after missing the strict deadline. But the good news is the UN is now planning to reopen applications very soon, with even more benefits and wider eligibility expected in this next round. Whether you’re a small business owner, NGO founder, rural worker, or student with a startup idea—this funding opportunity could transform your life. The R220K Women’s Grant is not just financial aid; it’s a full empowerment package including training, mentorship, networking, and legal support. Below is everything you need to know to get ready—from eligibility and application documents to key deadlines, payment structures, and tips to ensure your selection.
UN R220K Women Grant – What You Must Know
The UN Women’s Empowerment Grant provides direct financial support and resources to uplift women in various sectors. Here’s a snapshot of what this grant offers:
- R220,000 direct grant for eligible women
- Free online training and mentoring from UN experts
- Funding available for both individuals and registered groups
- International exposure and collaboration opportunities
- Focus on women-led businesses, NGOs, and innovation projects
- Rural, disabled, and previously disadvantaged women prioritized
- Multiple rounds expected every quarter
- Applications to open online only via UN partner portals
Eligibility Criteria for R220K Women Grant
Before applying, ensure you meet the essential criteria listed below. Applications from ineligible candidates will be rejected automatically.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Gender | Only female applicants (18 years or older) |
| Citizenship | South African citizen or permanent resident |
| Business/Project Type | Must be women-led or women-focused |
| Minimum Operational Status | Must show concept or basic stage of planning |
| Income Bracket | Priority to those earning below R10,000/month |
| Location Focus | Preference for rural, township, and informal settlement applicants |
| Internet/Email Access | Must have an email address and mobile number |
| Application Submission Format | Online only; no physical or postal entries allowed |
Step-by-Step Application Guide for 2025 Round
Many women failed to apply last time due to missing documents or poor internet connection. Here’s a simplified guide to help you apply successfully:
Prepare These Documents in Advance
- Valid South African ID or Smart Card
- Proof of income (or sworn affidavit of unemployment)
- Business plan or project proposal (2–3 pages)
- Bank statement (last 3 months) or SASSA slip
- Utility bill or proof of residence
- Motivation letter (Why you should be funded)
- Two references (can be community leaders or past employers)
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official UN Women South Africa grant portal.
- Create a secure login account using your ID and mobile number.
- Complete the online eligibility checklist.
- Upload the required documents (PDF only, max 5MB per file).
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Wait for an email confirmation with your reference number.
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for an interview or webinar.
Expected Timeline for the New Round – Key Dates to Track
The following tentative timeline is based on UN’s internal planning shared with local partners:
| Stage | Expected Date Range (2025) |
|---|---|
| Portal Opens | 22 July – 5 August |
| Application Review Window | 6 August – 18 August |
| Shortlist Announcement | 21 August |
| Interview/Verification | 23–30 August |
| Final Grant Approval | 2 September |
| Fund Transfer Start Date | 5 September onward |
| Training & Webinars | Throughout September |
How the R220,000 Grant Will Be Disbursed
This isn’t a one-time deposit. The R220,000 grant will be structured over a period of 6–9 months in phases:
Grant Disbursement Phases
- Phase 1 (R50,000) – Initial release upon approval
- Phase 2 (R60,000) – After attending 3 training webinars
- Phase 3 (R40,000) – Submission of monthly activity report
- Phase 4 (R40,000) – External audit and milestone confirmation
- Bonus Support (R30,000) – Optional, for high-impact projects
This structured approach ensures real development and accountability. Grantees who do not comply with reporting deadlines may face delays or cancellation of future payments.
Who Should Apply – Target Categories for 2025 Grant
Not every woman will qualify. Here’s a look at who stands the best chance of getting selected in the next round.
Priority Will Be Given To:
- Women living in rural areas, informal settlements
- Widows, single mothers, survivors of abuse
- Women with disabilities or chronic health conditions
- Youth-led initiatives (ages 18–35)
- Women running social impact or green projects
- Refugees or asylum seekers with legal permits
Common Mistakes That Lead to Disqualification
Even qualified women missed out last time due to these small but serious errors.
Avoid These Critical Mistakes
- Submitting blurry or incomplete documents
- Missing deadlines or uploading after portal closes
- Using someone else’s email or mobile number
- Ignoring follow-up interview or webinar invites
- Failing to explain the impact of your project
- Using copied/pasted proposals without personalization
If you missed the last round, don’t let this opportunity slip again. Start preparing your documents now. With over R220,000 on offer, this is not just a grant—it’s a doorway to financial independence and real empowerment.
FAQs of R220K Women Grant
Q1. Can I apply if I already received another grant this year?
Yes, but you must declare it in your application. Double dipping may disqualify you if not disclosed.
Q2. I don’t have a registered business yet. Can I still apply?
Yes. Early-stage ideas are welcome. Just provide a basic project plan and impact goal.
Q3. I live in a township and don’t have formal proof of income. Am I eligible?
Yes, you can submit a signed affidavit from a police station or community leader.
Q4. What language should the application be submitted in?
English is preferred, but some platforms may allow submissions in isiZulu or Afrikaans.
Q5. How do I track my application?
You’ll receive an SMS and email with your tracking reference after submitting.
Q6. Can a group of women apply together?
Yes, but the group must nominate one leader to represent and receive communication.