The Banks Empowerment Fund
True to our commitment to supporting black women's journeys into and within the electrical trades, we invite local organizations (including 501(c)(3)s, associations, and women’s networking groups) to apply to the Banks Empowerment Fund. The Fund is designed to assist local organizations working on programs that recruit and retain black women in the electrical trade through community outreach and awareness initiatives, networking groups, peer-to-peer mentorship, and other activities that lead to greater representation. We recognize that local entities are already key players in recruiting, preparing, supporting, and/or mentoring black women in electrical apprenticeship programs; these grants are intended to build and strengthen their efforts.
The Cassandra Banks Foundation (CBF) recognizes that many local organizations lead efforts not directly targeted to black women or solely focused on the electrical trade. Some have missions to reach all women or people of color regardless of gender; others are entry programs for all construction trades. CBF will not disqualify from funding any local organization whose work does not focus solely on black women, recognizing that black women can benefit directly or indirectly from such initiatives focused more generally on women or people of color.
Applicants can apply for a maximum award of $10,000, for up to 12 months, coupled with support in organizational capacity building.
Applications are due by Monday, March 31, 2025. Grantees will be notified by Thursday, May 1, 2025
Questions may be directed to info@cassandrabanks.org