Michelle Obama Drops $2.5M to Empower Girls Worldwide

Former First Lady Michelle Obama is backing up her words with action. Through her Girls Opportunity Alliance, Mrs. Obama has pledged $2.5 million to support 54 grassroots organizations working to keep adolescent girls in school across some of the world’s most economically challenged communities.

The announcement landed on October 11 — International Day of the Girl, underscoring her commitment to young women and education.

Happy International #DayOfTheGirl! Today, the @GirlsAlliance is announcing $2.5 million in new support for 54 grassroots organizations that are empowering girls around the world.

This work means so much to me. Join us: https://t.co/xhtw6qkZBW pic.twitter.com/9557VflttY

— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) October 11, 2025

The Alliance—an extension of an Obama White House initiative launched in 2018—focuses on helping girls ages 10 to 19 stay in school and graduate.

“These groups are changing the way girls see themselves in their own communities and in our world, helping create the leaders we need for the brighter future we all deserve,” Michelle Obama said in a video statement. “Because when our girls succeed, we all do.”

The funding will help pay for school expenses, challenge patriarchal practices such as child marriage, offer counseling for survivors of sexual abuse, and provide other direct support to girls in need.

How the Grants Work

Organizations can apply for up to $50,000 per project, with additional access to training sessions and in-person gatherings alongside global heavyweights like UNICEF and Save the Children. The Alliance also boosts programs through GoFundMe campaigns, expanding their reach and impact.

Jackie Bomboma, founder of the Young Strong Mothers Foundation in Tanzania, says the Alliance has been a game-changer.

“We call ourselves ‘watoto wa Michelle Obama,’ which means ‘the children of Michelle Obama,’” Bomboma said. “Everyone feels so proud to have such a mother who is very strong, who is very powerful and who is very loving.”

The funding announcement comes as UNICEF warns that cuts in global education budgets could push millions of girls out of school by the end of next year.

Michelle Obama’s message is clear: she’s not letting that happen without a fight.