WIPA GRANTS INFORMATION
Subject: Notice: Pause on Chapter Grant Proposals for Remainder of 2025
Dear Chapter Leaders,
I hope this message finds you well. On behalf of the National Board, I want to thank all of our chapters for your enthusiastic participation in WIPA’s 2025 grant initiative. We’ve seen a strong response and are thrilled with the creativity and purpose behind the proposals submitted so far.
At this time, we are pausing all new grant proposal submissions for the remainder of the 2025 calendar year. This pause will allow us to:
- Track and evaluate the progress of chapters that have already received grant funding
- Further define and refine the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the Grant Committee
These steps will ensure our granting process continues to serve chapters equitably and effectively in the years ahead.
We welcome your feedback as we review and refine our approach. Please feel free to reach out to me directly at treasurer@wipa.org with any thoughts, questions, or suggestions.
Thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to your chapter’s growth and the WIPA mission.
Warm regards,
Matt Mitchell
National Treasurer
Wedding Industry Professionals Association (WIPA)
treasurer@wipa.org
The WIPA National Reserves Committee is looking to grant up to $25,000 to be used in 2025 to assist our Chapters in expanding their potential and enhancing chapter experiences like up-leveling speakers for events.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, grant funds must be used in the same calendar year in which the chapter has applied, and reporting is due no later than 30 days after grant funds have been used.
Eligibility to Apply:
- Chapter is in good standing with WIPA National
- Your Chapter is current with submitting all education videos for 2024
- Current Chapter financials are operating in the positive
WIPA is committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in the industry. We are driven by a responsibility to create safe environments where everyone feels welcomed and can see themselves in our membership. Our mission is to provide education so that our membership is better able to conduct themselves and their businesses in an inclusive and thoughtful manner.
Recipients of support grants agree and understand that the intended project and initiative must (either by original intent or by design):
- Promote equitable access to opportunities and resources for underrepresented groups.
- Foster an inclusive environment that respects and values diverse perspectives, cultures and identities.
- Enhance representation of minority groups in the wedding industry.
WIPA GRANTS FAQ
What is the purpose of this grant program?
The WIPA Grants Program is designed to support WIPA Chapters in expanding their potential and enhancing chapter membership experiences. The program offers funding to foster collaboration, education, diversity, and inclusivity within the wedding industry.
What is the total funding available?
The WIPA National Reserves Committee has allocated up to $25,000 to be used by the current WIPA chapters in the 2025 calendar year to be approved by the WIPA Reserves Committee for projects and initiatives.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Chapter is in good standing with WIPA National
- Your Chapter is current with submitting all education videos for 2024
- Current Chapter financials are operating in the positive
- Applicants must be collaborating with a non-profit organization for their community service project, including details of the non-profit(s).
What types of projects are funded?
Examples of realistic projects include:
- Events or workshops that promote professional development and education.
- Initiatives that advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB).
- Projects fostering equitable access and representation of underrepresented groups in the wedding industry.
- Sustainability-focused initiatives.
What types of requests are not funded?
Unrealistic asks include:
- Projects without a clear connection to WIPA’s mission and goals.
- Initiatives lacking measurable outcomes or financial transparency.
- Non-specific or overly broad requests.
What is the application process?
- Complete the online application form
- Submit all required documentation, including:
- A detailed project proposal and budget.
- 2025 budget.
- Current member attendance at quarterly events.
- Ensure the application aligns with WIPA’s DEIB principles and objectives.
What is the application timeline?
- Applications Now Open
- Applications are on a rolling basis
- Reports Due: Within 30 days of using grant funds
How will applications be evaluated?
The Reserves Committee evaluates applications based on:
- Alignment with WIPA’s mission and DEIB goals.
- Feasibility and impact of the proposed initiative.
- Clear and detailed budget planning.
- Evidence of potential benefit to chapter members and the wedding community.
What are the grant recipients' responsibilities?
Recipients must:
- Use funds solely for the approved project within the 2025 calendar year.
- Submit reports to the National WIPA Reserves Committee no later than 30 days post-event.
- Provide a 500-word original blog with photos/videos for the WIPA Org newsletter within 30 days of using the grant funds.
- Share testimonials from chapter members who benefitted from the grant.
What should the final report include?
The final report must cover:
- A summary of key activities and outcomes.
- A detailed financial report with itemized expenses and receipts.
- Documentation of impact and success metrics.
- Testimonials and supporting documentation.
- Challenges encountered and solutions implemented.
- Future plans and ongoing impact.
Can I reapply if my application is not selected?
Yes, applicants are encouraged to reapply in future grant cycles. Feedback on unsuccessful applications may be provided upon request.
Who can I contact for further questions?
For additional information or assistance, email us at treasurer@wipa.org.