WLI Innovations Grant

The ULI Women’s Leadership Initiative (WLI) Innovation Grant program supports District Councils in advancing women as leaders throughout their careers in the real estate industry. Through innovative programming, this grant aims to increase both the number and visibility of women leaders in ULI and the broader real estate sector, while fostering the development of young women professionals. 

Applications open on February 1! 

  • Total Amount Available: $30,000 
  • Size of Grants: $2,500- $10,000 (final amounts determined by the selection committee) 
  • Eligible Applicants: All ULI District Councils 
  • Application Deadline: March 9, 2025 
  • Award Announcement: At the ULI Spring Meeting in May 2025 
  • Implementation Period: May 2025 – March 31, 2026 
  • Final Impact Report Due:  2026 ULI Spring Meeting 

Eligibility Criteria for WLI Innovation Grant 

  • Articulate how your proposed project will raise the visibility and number of women leaders in ULI, the community/region, and in the real estate industry.
  • Use grant funding for new, unique, and high-impact programming.
  • Provide metrics that indicate expected outcomes (list proposed metrics).
  • Include a strong role for ULI WLI members (and document value of time donated by volunteers.
  • Enhance the District Council’s ongoing program of work.
  • Must include plans for a written report with photos, videos, or other visuals and metrics.

Preferred Criteria for WLI Innovation Grant

Preference will be given for projects that:

  • Will be completed by March 31, 2026
  • Represent a model and inspiration for other District Councils.
  • Clearly illustrates replicability to other Councils with an identified originating Council support team.
  • Relate directly to areas of focus in the WLI Strategic Plan:
    • Feed the pipeline: Introduce college/university women to the real estate industry.
    • Engage, involve, and support members: Leadership development, board readiness programs, and mentorship opportunities.
    • Integrate ULI’s networks: Co-hosted programming with ULI NEXT, Young Leaders Group, or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committees.

Who selects the winners? A committee appointed by the WLI Executive Committee which will include District Council representation or specify that WLI Exec Members with DC leadership experience will be on the committee.

Application Process

  • Complete all sections of the application.
  • Obtain required letter of support from the District Council Chair, WLI Chair, or Chair for Mission Advancement.
  • Other letters of support from local partners are encouraged.
  • Submit compiled application package to [email protected].