Convening feminist movements from around the world
September 17, 2025
The feminist funding landscape is experiencing seismic shifts and challenges. Cuts to official development assistance (ODA), both generally and specifically targeting gender equality initiatives and feminist organizing, are leading many to discuss a “post-ODA world.” These cuts are having a massive impact on women’s rights organizations globally, as we try to find feminist funding solutions.
For example, a 2025 UN Women survey of women’s organizations operating in crisis areas found that 90% of respondents are affected by funding cuts. Nearly half could close within six months if new funding is not secured. Additionally, well-funded anti-rights organizations are emerging and threatening to undo hard-won progress, leaving only five years to deliver on the SDGs.
Addressing the funding challenges
In this challenging context, there is a growing exploration of how to reinforce traditional sources of funding for gender equality as well as how to mobilize new resources. The key discussions focus on whether and how philanthropy can help fill this funding gap, and on philanthropy’s role in responding to the attacks on rights and feminist gains.
Conversations are emerging that explore possible new forms of resourcing, including gender lens investing, blended financing, national philanthropy, and social enterprises. In consultation with activists worldwide, the Walking the Talk consortium developed 12 Calls to Action for Resourcing Gender Equality as an advocacy tool to gain momentum with these goals and conversations.
Working together for feminist solutions
The Financing for Feminist Futures (F4FF) Conference aims to develop strategies to resource feminist movements and mobilize support for gender equality financing more broadly in this challenging moment. The conference will bring together feminist activists, thinkers, networks, researchers, and leaders, particularly from the Global Majority, as well as women’s funds, government policymakers, and representatives of philanthropic entities to discuss possible solutions. Building on discussions in feminist spaces, including AWID and CSW, as well as in multilateral and international spaces, such as Financing for Development 4, the G7/G20, philanthropic networks, and the United Nations General Assembly, the Financing for Feminist Futures Conference will continue these conversations and momentum.
About Walking the Talk
Walking the Talk advocates for inclusive foreign policies, practices, and funding that champion gender equality in the European Union, reflecting the voices of women and LGBTIQ+ communities from the Majority World.
