Alfred Station, NY, February 4, 2026 – The Allegany-Cattaraugus-Chautauqua Fund for Women (ACC FFW) announces the opening of its grant application period for 2026 on February 5, 2026. Grant applications will be accepted February 5 through March 20, 2026, with award notifications on or around April 30th, 2026.

These grants are awarded to women in the tri-county region to facilitate sustained economic self-sufficiency.  The amount awarded may vary from year-to-year, based on the number of applications and funds available, up to $1,000 per grant.   Grants are awarded based on demonstration of financial need and the applicants’ plan for how the grant funds will increase self-sufficiency.  Recipients in prior years have used the funds to purchase equipment, to support business start-up expenses, or to advance skills and training.   

The ACCFFW grants do make a difference.  A 2025 grant recipient shared, “The grant helped me to build my professional portfolio and presentation to the clients. We were able to rebrand our marketing efforts with new business cards and banners. Everyone we came across loved our set up and how we displayed our design options, like a gallery wall.”

Starting February 5th, applicants may apply online, https://www.accffw.org/grants, or by emailing info@accffw.org to request an alternative application method (e.g. paper application or interview).  

About ACC-FFW:

The vision of the Allegany-Cattaraugus-Chautauqua Fund for Women is to be a resource that will provide financial assistance and open doors for women who seek continued betterment of their lives.  The Fund for Women invests in the women in our communities and contributes to robust local businesses.   

The ACC-FFW was established in 2017 to combat poverty in the tri-county area by providing women the opportunity to seek financial assistance for long-term self-improvement, and by promoting philanthropy by and for women. The ACC FFW is a 501(c )(3) nonprofit organization.  Donations to this fund are tax deductible to the extent provided by law.

CONTACT: Melissa Jusianiec

Allegany-Cattaraugus-Chautauqua Fund for Women