ABOUT US
Rise Up Together advances gender equity and justice by investing in local leaders who are transforming their communities around the world. Since 2009, we have partnered with advocates to strengthen their leadership, amplify their impact, and advance lasting change in education, health, economic opportunity, and climate resilience. Through our Leadership and Advocacy Accelerator, competitive grant funding, and ongoing technical assistance, we equip local leaders and organizations with the resources, tools, and networks to turn their visions for change into reality.
In October 2025, Rise Up Together began an exciting new chapter as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, following 16 years of fiscal sponsorship by the Public Health Institute. This milestone builds on our longstanding commitment to advancing gender equity and reflects the continued growth and evolution of our global work. While our organizational structure has changed, our mission remains the same: to support local leaders in creating lasting, systemic change for women, girls, and gender-nonconforming people.
Today, our global network of 1,080 leaders has helped secure more than 246 new and improved laws, policies, and programs, positively impacting more than 251 million people worldwide (as of 2025). As we look to the future, we remain committed to shifting power and resources to local leaders whose lived experiences, expertise, and vision are driving a more equitable world for all.
$10M Awarded. 100 Stories of Extraordinary Impact.
At Rise Up Together, we believe lasting change begins with local leaders who know their communities best. Since 2009, we've invested in their leadership through funding, training, and networks that help turn bold ideas into meaningful action. As of October 2026, we're celebrating a major milestone: $10 million in grants awarded to support local leaders and organizations advancing gender equity in health, education, economic opportunity, and climate resilience around the world.
But the true impact of this investment extends far beyond the numbers. Across the globe, Rise Up Leaders are transforming the laws, policies, and systems that shape people's lives, creating lasting change for millions. From keeping girls in school and expanding access to health care to strengthening protections against gender-based violence, advancing economic opportunities, and building climate resilience, their achievements demonstrate the extraordinary power of locally led change.
Our interactive map brings 100 of these remarkable stories to life, highlighting the leaders, communities, and achievements that reflect the breadth of our global impact. Explore the map below to discover what's possible when local leaders have the resources, networks, and support to turn their visions into lasting change.
