2026 Young Women in Leadership Scholarship
Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award $1,000 (formerly the Young Women in Public Affairs Award) recognizes young women, ages 16-19, for demonstrating leadership skills and commitment to public service and civic causes, and encourages them to continue their participation in public and political life. Since 1990, Zonta has given 1,128 awards, totaling US$1,673,750 to 956 young women from 61 countries.
Toni Fontana application Diana “Toni” Fontana Woman in Business Award
Applications for the Diana “Toni” Fontana woman in business award are now open. The Zonta Club of Berkshire County created this $1,000 award to support women entrepreneurs who own and operate their own businesses. The annual award is designed to recognize innovation, resilience, and impact among women-owned businesses and to provide meaningful financial support to help them grow. The Toni Fontana award is open to women who are actively involved in the day-to-day operations. Businesses at any stage are encouraged to apply, from early startups to established enterprises.
“This award was created to invest directly in women who are building businesses, creating opportunities, and strengthening their communities,” said Liza Bove. “We want to help remove financial barriers and shine a spotlight on women doing important work.” The award was created in honor of Toni Fontana, a long-time Zontian and owner of Astro Beef. One recipient will receive a $1,000 cash award, which may be used for business expenses such as equipment, marketing, inventory, education, or expansion.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicant must identify as a woman
- Must be actively operating the business
- Business must be based in Berkshire County
How to Apply:
Toni Fontana application The application includes basic business information and short responses about the applicant’s mission, challenges, and how the award funds would be used. The application deadline is April 30, 2026. The award recipient will be selected by May 20, 2026.
Girls Inc. Scholarship
Girls Inc. Scholarship Due March 24th
We underwrite a $1,000 annual scholarship to Girls Inc. of the Berkshires for a senior girl attending high school in Berkshire County and entering a two or four year college in the fall. Applications are available in high school guidance offices; Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center, 165 East St., Pittsfield.
Amelia Earhart Fellowship $10,000
The goal of the Amelia Earhart (AE) Fellowship, established in 1938 in honor of the legendary pilot and Zontian, is to assist the future of women in the fields of aerospace-related sciences or aerospace-related engineering. Globally, women make up around 25 percent of the workforce in the aerospace industry. In an effort to carry out its mission that women have access to all resources and are represented in decision-making positions on an equal basis with men, Zonta International offers the Amelia Earhart Fellowship.
The Amelia Earhart Fellowship was established in 1938 in honor of famed pilot and Zontian, Amelia Earhart. The US$10,000 Fellowship is awarded annually to up to 30 women pursuing Ph.D./doctoral degrees in aerospace engineering and space sciences. It may be used at any university or college offering accredited post-graduate courses and degrees in these fields. The Amelia Earhart Fellowship application is in August of each year, and submitted directly with Zonta International. Link here