Michelle Obama pledges more than $1 million to organizations supporting girls worldwide

 Through her Girls Opportunity Alliance, the former first lady Michelle Obama is supporting 25 organizations across 15 countries.

Michelle Obama has pledged more than $1 million to organizations supporting adolescent girls around the world through the Girls Opportunity Alliance, an initiative of the Obama Foundation. Announced on Oct. 11, 2026, in recognition of International Day of the Girl, the commitment will help 25 organizations across 15 countries expand programs focused on education, empowerment, and advocacy.

According to Yahoo News, the funding will support grassroots groups providing scholarships, mentorship, and after-school programs. Moreover, it will provide other resources to help girls access educational opportunities and develop leadership skills, according to the Obama Foundation.

In a video announcing the commitment, Obama emphasized the importance of investing in girls and supporting the local organizations working to help them succeed. “I’ve always believed that every girl holds a unique promise… a special way that she can change the lives of those around her, maybe even the world,” Obama said.

She added that investing in girls is “an investment in our shared future,” highlighting the alliance’s work with grassroots leaders helping girls receive the education they deserve. Among the organizations receiving support are Girls First Initiative in Tanzania and the Girl Power Foundation in Uganda, which works with adolescent girls and young women through mentorship and educational support.

Other supported organizations include groups in Brazil, Haiti, Costa Rica, Jordan, and India. Their programs address different needs, from education and leadership development to creating safe spaces where girls can learn and receive mentorship. The participating organizations will also have opportunities to join the Girls Opportunity Alliance Network. Launched in 2018, the Girls Opportunity Alliance has supported more than 265 grassroots projects across 50 countries.

Launched in 2018, the Girls Opportunity Alliance has supported more than 265 grassroots projects across 50 countries. The latest commitment builds on the initiative’s previous work. Obama has also previously directed proceeds from merchandise connected to her memoir, Becoming, toward supporting girls’ education.