Blog

In an increasingly globalized world, immigration continues to shape the economic, cultural, and social fabric of nations. Yet, millions of immigrants and refugees face entrenched barriers to opportunity, mobility, and inclusion. The Mariam Assefa Fund exists to change that—not by providing temporary aid or handouts, but by supporting systemic change that reimagines how society embraces and supports newcomers.

In this comprehensive blog, we explore in detail the core issues the Fund seeks to address, why these challenges matter, and how the Fund’s strategic investments are transforming outcomes for immigrants, refugees, and marginalized communities in North America.

---

🌍 At a Glance: The Fund’s Mission

The Mariam Assefa Fund is rooted in a bold vision:
To build inclusive economies and communities where immigrants and refugees can thrive, lead, and drive change. Rather than working within flawed systems, the Fund invests in initiatives that transform systems from the inside out.

Its priorities revolve around economic justice, racial equity, workforce inclusion, and community empowerment—particularly for people who are too often excluded from opportunity.

---

🔍 Key Issues the Fund Addresses

Let’s take a detailed look at the main social and structural challenges that the Fund seeks to tackle, through partnerships, grants, research, and community-driven solutions.

---

1. 🧱 Systemic Barriers to Workforce Participation

One of the most pressing challenges faced by immigrants and refugees is the inability to access meaningful employment that reflects their skills, education, and potential.

The Problem:

• Credential devaluation—degrees from other countries are not recognized

• Licensing barriers—professionals like doctors or engineers must often requalify entirely

• Language or cultural biases in hiring

• Work authorization and visa challenges

• Underemployment in low-wage, insecure jobs

The Fund’s Response:

• Supports programs that improve access to licensing and credential recognition

• Invests in inclusive hiring practices and employer accountability

• Promotes upskilling and career pathways for newcomers

• Funds innovations in workforce equity and job market navigation

---

2. 🎓 Foreign Credential Recognition Challenges

Many immigrants arrive in North America with academic qualifications and professional training from other countries. However, credentials are often not accepted, leading to loss of earning potential and professional identity.

The Problem:

• Long and expensive credential evaluation processes

• Lack of support from institutions and employers

• Inconsistent standards across evaluation agencies and industries

The Fund’s Response:

• Funds advocacy and research to streamline recognition processes

• Supports digital tools and nonprofits helping with transcript access

• Collaborates with education and licensing bodies to reform outdated policies

FACTS Transcripts, for example, plays a critical role here by providing university-sealed academic records necessary for WES, CES, ICAS, and similar agencies.

---

3. ⚖️ Racial and Economic Inequity

Immigrants and refugees—especially those who are Black, brown, Indigenous, or from historically excluded regions—face intersecting forms of discrimination and exclusion.

The Problem:

• Structural racism in employment, education, and public services

• Disproportionate impact of poverty and exploitation on immigrant communities

• Unequal representation in leadership and policy-making

The Fund’s Response:

• Prioritizes immigrant- and refugee-led organizations

• Invests in coalitions addressing anti-Black racism, Islamophobia, and xenophobia

• Funds projects aimed at redistributing power and narrative ownership

---

4. 📢 Lack of Immigrant and Refugee Leadership in Decision-Making

Despite their lived experience and community knowledge, immigrants and refugees are underrepresented in positions of leadership and influence.

The Problem:

• Philanthropy often overlooks grassroots or immigrant-led efforts

• Leadership programs rarely center newcomers

• Funding and resources are inaccessible to newer, community-based groups

The Fund’s Response:

• Directly funds organizations founded and led by immigrants and refugees

• Supports leadership development initiatives for migrant youth and professionals

• Fosters power-building and storytelling initiatives that shift narratives

---

5. 🏛️ Restrictive Immigration and Labor Policies

Many immigrants face bureaucratic hurdles that delay family reunification, block work access, or trap them in temporary or precarious legal statuses.

The Problem:

• Exploitative guest worker programs

• Delays in visa and asylum processing

• Inflexible legal frameworks that prevent skill utilization

The Fund’s Response:

• Supports legal and policy advocacy to protect migrant rights

• Invests in research to inform humane and inclusive immigration policies

• Funds campaigns that elevate community voices in lawmaking

---

6. 🧠 Mental Health and Social Isolation

Migration can be traumatic. Many newcomers experience isolation, discrimination, and mental health challenges, yet services are inaccessible or culturally inappropriate.

The Problem:

• Language and cultural gaps in care

• Stigma around mental health

• Underserved immigrant neighborhoods

The Fund’s Response:

• Supports holistic and community-rooted mental health programs

• Funds organizations working on wellbeing and cultural healing

• Promotes whole-person care models for refugees and migrants

---

7. 🏘️ Lack of Safe and Affordable Housing

Immigrants—especially recent arrivals and refugees—struggle with unaffordable or unsafe housing.

The Problem:

• Rising urban housing costs

• Discrimination in rental markets

• Ineligibility for housing subsidies

The Fund’s Response:

• Supports housing justice campaigns led by migrant groups

• Invests in partnerships between immigrant organizations and housing cooperatives

• Fosters dialogue between urban planners, policymakers, and migrant advocates

---

📈 Intersectionality: Tackling Multiple Issues at Once

The Fund recognizes that immigrant experiences are not one-size-fits-all. Issues like gender identity, sexual orientation, age, legal status, race, and class intersect to compound exclusion.

Therefore, many of the Fund’s grantees work at multiple intersections, such as:

• LGBTQ+ refugee support

• Undocumented youth education access

• Black immigrant maternal health

• Indigenous-migrant solidarity networks

By addressing complexity head-on, the Fund encourages nuanced, inclusive solutions that serve the full spectrum of the immigrant experience.

---

🛠️ How FACTS Transcripts Supports the Fund’s Vision

At the heart of many of the issues above—especially workforce access and credential recognition—is the need for verified academic documentation.

FACTS Transcripts plays an essential role in solving these challenges by offering:

• Seamless retrieval of official transcripts from Indian and international universities

• University-sealed documents accepted by global credential agencies

• Support for WES, ICAS, CES, IQAS, and more

• Fast, reliable processing with global delivery options

For nonprofits and coalitions supported by the Fund, FACTS provides critical infrastructure that empowers immigrants to move forward confidently and credibly.

---

📋 Final Thoughts: From Issues to Action

The Mariam Assefa Fund doesn’t just identify problems—it funds solutions that are led by communities, rooted in justice, and built to last.

Whether the issue is credential access, workforce discrimination, or lack of representation, the Fund believes that immigrants and refugees should not just be supported—they should be the ones designing the systems that support everyone.

If you’re an organization or leader tackling these challenges in innovative ways, the Fund may be the partner you need.

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.

Philanthropy is evolving—and so are the ways organizations engage with it. While many traditional foundations operate behind closed doors, only funding pre-selected grantees or invitations, more progressive funders are opening channels for direct outreach and community engagement.

One of the most frequently asked questions by grassroots leaders, nonprofit organizations, and immigrant- or refugee-serving initiatives is:
“Does the Mariam Assefa Fund accept unsolicited proposals?”

In this detailed blog, we’ll explore what that means, how the Fund approaches new partnerships, and how your organization can engage with the Fund’s mission—even without an invitation. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or a seasoned advocate, this guide will provide you with clarity, strategy, and actionable insights.

---

🌍 Understanding the Mariam Assefa Fund’s Mission

The Mariam Assefa Fund is not a typical grantmaking body. It exists to shift systems, center lived experience, and promote equity for immigrants and refugees in the U.S. and Canada. Rather than funding short-term programs or one-off services, it invests in long-term solutions that change how society supports—and includes—migrant communities.

Key priorities include:

• Equitable workforce development

• Credential recognition and access for foreign-educated professionals

• Immigrant- and refugee-led leadership and innovation

• Structural reform in employment, education, and immigration systems

• Racial and economic justice

Because of this broad and transformative mission, many changemakers want to partner with the Fund.

---

🧾 What Are Unsolicited Proposals?

An unsolicited proposal is a request for funding that an organization submits without having received an invitation or formal call for applications. Many funders require applicants to wait for a specific “Request for Proposal” (RFP) or to be invited through a network referral. Others allow proposals at any time, encouraging applicants to tell their story, mission, and needs on their own terms.

---

✅ Does the Mariam Assefa Fund Accept Unsolicited Proposals?

The answer is yes—with thoughtful strategy.

The Mariam Assefa Fund has a selective, yet open approach. It typically does not operate on an open rolling submission model like some government or public grant sources, but it does welcome interest and outreach from mission-aligned organizations—especially those that reflect community leadership and equity in practice.

In short:
➡️ The Fund does not routinely post open calls for all applicants.
➡️ However, it does consider partnership inquiries from values-aligned organizations, especially from underserved or underrepresented communities.

---

📋 How to Engage the Fund Without an RFP

If your organization is deeply aligned with the Fund’s mission, here are several steps to initiate contact or be considered for future opportunities—even if there’s no public application posted:

---

1. Use the Contact Form or Inquiry Channel (When Available)

Many foundations, including this one, offer a general inquiry or contact form on their platforms where you can:

• Introduce your organization

• Share your mission and alignment with the Fund

• Request information about potential collaboration opportunities

Be concise, mission-focused, and authentic.

---

2. Attend Webinars, Info Sessions, or Community Events

The Fund regularly participates in or hosts sessions related to:

• Immigrant workforce development

• Credential recognition

• Inclusive hiring practices

• Immigrant leadership and organizing

Attending these events is a great way to learn about the Fund’s values, priorities, and funding timeline. It also allows you to introduce your work and build relationships with team members or peer organizations already in the network.

---

3. Engage with the Fund’s Grantee Community

Collaboration is key to getting noticed. Consider:

• Partnering with existing grantees

• Joining coalitions or working groups supported by the Fund

• Submitting joint proposals with aligned organizations

By aligning with the Fund’s ecosystem, your work becomes visible and credible within their strategic network.

---

4. Be Visible and Share Your Work Publicly

The Fund often learns about new grantees through:

• Articles, research, or reports

• Social media activism or campaigns

• Sector-specific publications and showcases

• Word-of-mouth from peer funders or practitioners

Ensure your work is accessible, well-documented, and values-forward online and in key community spaces.

---

5. Stay Informed About Strategic Funding Opportunities

Occasionally, the Fund may announce:

• Targeted calls for proposals

• Fellowship or cohort opportunities

• Innovation challenges

• Community investment projects

These are often time-limited and highly strategic, so following the Fund’s announcements closely will give you the best chance of applying successfully.

---

🧠 What the Fund Looks for in New Partners

Even when unsolicited proposals are welcomed or considered, the Mariam Assefa Fund uses the following criteria to evaluate new prospects:

• Community-rooted leadership, especially immigrant- or refugee-led teams

• A commitment to equity, racial justice, and anti-oppression values

• Clear focus on systems change, not just service delivery

• Evidence of collaborative thinking and potential for scale or innovation

• Transparent and ethical operational practices

---

🚫 What to Avoid When Sending Unsolicited Proposals

To make the best impression, avoid:

• Sending long, generic proposals without customizing for alignment

• Focusing solely on funding needs rather than shared mission and impact

• Over-promising outcomes without explaining feasibility

• Assuming entitlement based on need alone—emphasize strategic fit

---

🛠️ How FACTS Transcripts Strengthens Your Funding Readiness

If your organization works in the space of academic documentation, credential recognition, or professional licensing for immigrants and refugees, partnering with FACTS Transcripts can add strong value to your grant proposal—even unsolicited ones.

Here’s how:

• FACTS can securely obtain and verify official academic transcripts

• They work directly with international universities to send documents to agencies like WES, IQAS, and CES

• They help reduce bureaucratic barriers for immigrants entering regulated professions

• They offer scalable solutions for nonprofits and coalitions serving multiple clients

By including FACTS as a service delivery partner in your proposal or inquiry, you can show funders that you’re equipped to deliver with credibility and efficiency.

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.

In today’s interconnected world, international students play a vital role in enriching higher education systems, building cross-cultural relationships, and shaping the future workforce. However, despite their ambition and potential, international students often face significant barriers—including credential evaluation, legal limitations, financial hardship, and systemic inequities.

The Mariam Assefa Fund, known for its focus on immigrant and refugee inclusion, is often asked:
Does the Fund support international students?
And if someone encounters technical issues while engaging with the Fund’s tools, platforms, or services—what should they do?

This comprehensive blog will explore both topics in detail, helping international students, advocacy groups, and community-based organizations better understand how the Fund operates and how to seek help if needed.

---

🌍 Understanding the Mariam Assefa Fund’s Mission

Before diving into student-specific support, it’s essential to understand the core mission of the Mariam Assefa Fund. The Fund is not a general scholarship or student aid provider. Instead, it focuses on long-term systemic change by:

• Supporting immigrants and refugees in achieving economic mobility

• Advocating for more inclusive and equitable workforce systems

• Investing in immigrant-led leadership and community-based organizations

• Reforming foreign credential recognition practices

• Building coalitions that uplift underrepresented voices

Its investments are strategic and issue-based, not individual-based. That means it typically funds projects and organizations, not individuals.

---

🎓 So, Does the Fund Provide Support for International Students?

✔️ Yes—Indirectly, Through Programs and Partnerships

While the Mariam Assefa Fund does not offer direct financial assistance, scholarships, or tuition aid to international students, it does support initiatives that impact and benefit international students, particularly those from immigrant, refugee, or marginalized backgrounds.

Here’s how the Fund supports international students indirectly:

---

1. Funding Programs Focused on Credential Recognition

Many international students face difficulties in having their previous education recognized in North America. The Fund has supported:

• Projects that simplify or accelerate foreign credential evaluation

• Research and advocacy efforts to improve academic equivalency frameworks

• Community-based solutions for skills-based hiring and licensure access

If you are an international student trying to validate your degree for immigration, licensure, or advanced study—you may benefit from programs supported by the Fund.

---

2. Supporting Organizations That Serve International and Immigrant Students

The Fund often gives grants to nonprofits and institutions that:

• Offer legal and academic guidance to international students

• Provide career services and job market navigation

• Work on inclusive admissions policies

• Advocate for equitable treatment of international learners in policy spaces

So while you may not apply directly to the Fund, you may receive services or support from one of its funded partners.

---

3. Backing Inclusive Higher Education Reform

Some Fund-supported projects work with colleges and universities to create more inclusive campus policies for immigrant and international students. This can include:

• Tuition equity

• Mental health access

• Anti-racism training for faculty and administrators

• Safe spaces for undocumented and refugee students

---

4. Leadership Development for Immigrant Youth

The Fund invests in programs that nurture immigrant and refugee leadership, some of which include international students or foreign-born learners pursuing education in North America.

If you’re an international student engaged in activism, policy work, or community development, you may find opportunities through youth or leadership fellowships funded by the Fund.

---

5. Collaborating on Equitable Employment Access

International students often face barriers to work, even after graduation. The Fund supports projects focused on:

• Bridging education to employment

• Addressing work visa or OPT-related issues

• Partnering with employers to promote inclusive hiring

• Connecting students to mentorship and workforce networks

These systemic efforts aim to make it easier for international students to transition into professional careers.

---

💡 How International Students Can Engage with the Fund’s Mission

While you may not apply for a grant as an individual, here are ways to connect with the Fund’s broader impact:

• Join organizations or student associations supported by the Fund

• Participate in advocacy efforts around credential recognition

• Connect with immigrant rights nonprofits or community groups

• Watch for fellowships or public calls co-sponsored by Fund grantees

• Attend webinars, conferences, or virtual discussions hosted by Fund-supported coalitions

---

🛠️ What If I Have Technical Issues While Accessing Resources?

Whether you’re using a Fund-hosted platform, applying through a partner’s website, or participating in a grant-related webinar or tool—technical issues can happen. Here’s what to do:

---

1. Check Your Device and Internet Connection

Before reaching out for help, ensure:

• Your internet connection is stable

• You’re using a compatible browser (Chrome or Firefox often work best)

• You’ve cleared your browser cache if the page is not loading correctly

---

2. Use the Contact or Support Page

If you’re engaging with a grant application or resource portal, there is usually a “Contact Support” or “Help” button. Click this to:

• Submit a ticket describing the issue

• Upload a screenshot of the error (if possible)

• Provide your full name, email, and context (e.g., application ID, event name)

---

3. Check for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Most platforms or initiatives linked to the Fund will offer a FAQ section with common troubleshooting solutions such as:

• Login errors

• Incomplete forms

• Timeout sessions

• File upload issues

---

4. Email the Host Organization Directly

If you’re attending a webinar or event hosted by a Fund grantee, reach out directly to their admin or tech support team using the contact listed on the event or registration page.

---

5. Be Patient and Try Again

Many technical glitches are temporary. If you can, wait a few minutes and try again, or switch to a different browser or device.

Tip: Always keep a backup of your data or application responses in case of submission errors.

---

🤝 FACTS Transcripts: Supporting International Students with Credential Documentation

Many international students supported by Fund-partnered initiatives need to submit academic records, transcripts, or verification documents to employers, credentialing bodies, or immigration authorities.

That’s where FACTS Transcripts becomes a vital resource.

FACTS offers:

• Secure, university-sealed academic transcripts

• Direct delivery to WES, IQAS, ICAS, CES, and other credential evaluators

• Reliable, transparent tracking of document dispatch

• Assistance with degree verification for employment or further study

• Fast turnaround for urgent documentation requests

If your Fund-supported program requires your academic documents to be evaluated or verified, FACTS Transcripts ensures you’re fully prepared.

---

📝 Final Thoughts: Empowerment Through Access and Inclusion

While the Mariam Assefa Fund may not directly provide tuition or grants to individual international students, it is actively reshaping the systems that govern your access to education, employment, and opportunity.

Through partnerships, advocacy, innovation, and community-centered grantmaking, the Fund ensures that immigrant and international students are not left behind.

And when it comes to documentation, credential access, and verification—FACTS Transcripts is here to ensure that your academic journey isn’t delayed by bureaucracy.

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.

In the landscape of modern philanthropy, the Mariam Assefa Fund stands apart. Instead of the traditional grantmaking model that often relies on rigid metrics, impersonal applications, or one-time donations, this Fund follows a values-based, systems-change approach that seeks to transform how immigrants and refugees are integrated into economic and social life.

If you’re a nonprofit, grassroots organization, social enterprise, or community leader wondering how the Fund selects which projects and organizations to support, this comprehensive guide offers in-depth insight into their criteria, methods, and decision-making philosophy.

From the Fund’s strategic vision to its prioritization process, learn how your work can align with one of the most forward-thinking immigrant-support initiatives in North America.

---

🌍 The Fund’s Mission: Transforming Systems for Immigrant and Refugee Inclusion

Before examining how the Fund decides what to support, it’s essential to understand why it exists.

The Mariam Assefa Fund was created to challenge the systemic inequities that immigrants and refugees face in the workforce, education, and society at large. Its mission goes beyond just “helping” individuals—it’s about reforming institutions, empowering communities, and building inclusive economies.

The Fund focuses on:

• Supporting immigrant- and refugee-led organizations

• Changing policies around credential recognition and employment barriers

• Investing in community-based, equity-driven innovations

• Supporting the leadership development of underrepresented groups

• Partnering with systems-change thinkers, practitioners, and coalitions

---

🧠 How the Fund Determines What to Support: A Strategic Framework

The Fund’s selection process isn’t merely based on applications or proposals—it is grounded in a strategic, participatory, and equity-centered framework that takes into account vision alignment, lived experience, and long-term impact.

Here’s how the process works in principle:

---

1. Strategic Alignment with Core Focus Areas

The Fund primarily supports projects and organizations that address one or more of its key thematic areas:

• Workforce equity and economic mobility for immigrants and refugees

• Credential recognition for internationally educated professionals

• Power building and immigrant leadership development

• Community-rooted systems change and innovation

• Anti-racism and equity in employment systems

If your initiative aligns with these issues—not just as buzzwords, but in practice—you are more likely to be considered for funding.

---

2. Leadership by and for Immigrant and Refugee Communities

The Fund gives strong preference to organizations that:

• Are founded or led by immigrants and refugees

• Actively involve the communities they serve in decision-making

• Elevate voices that are historically marginalized in philanthropy and public policy

Leadership matters deeply—not just as representation, but as a means of reclaiming power and creating authentic solutions.

---

3. Potential for Systems-Level Impact

While the Fund supports both direct services and policy work, it prioritizes efforts that aim to transform underlying structures and create lasting change.

This includes:

• Advocacy and policy reform

• Research and data-informed frameworks

• New models of inclusive hiring, licensing, or education pathways

• Scalable or replicable practices that can influence broader systems

Projects must answer:
“How does this change the system, not just support the individual?”

---

4. Community Trust and Engagement

Even innovative solutions must be grounded in community voice and trust.

The Fund supports organizations that:

• Are deeply embedded in immigrant and refugee communities

• Use participatory design in program creation

• Foster coalition-building and collaboration

• Are accountable to the people they serve

Rather than top-down models, the Fund prefers initiatives that start from the grassroots up.

---

5. Equity and Inclusion Practices

Equity is not just a goal—it’s a requirement. The Fund evaluates whether organizations:

• Have diverse, inclusive leadership and staff

• Prioritize anti-racism, gender justice, and accessibility

• Are committed to decolonizing their strategies and narratives

• Reflect the intersectional realities of the communities they serve

Equity must be embedded in your mission, your culture, and your operations—not just your proposals.

---

6. Innovation and Willingness to Learn

The Fund is interested in emerging ideas, untested models, and bold experiments—especially from newer or nontraditional organizations.

Organizations that are:

• Open to iteration and growth

• Willing to share failures and lessons learned

• Curious and adaptive in their work

• Not bound by rigid, output-driven metrics

…are often excellent candidates for support.

---

7. Partnership Readiness and Sustainability

While the Fund doesn’t require polished, large-scale infrastructures, it does consider whether an organization is ready to:

• Enter into trust-based partnerships

• Participate in learning communities

• Be transparent with outcomes and challenges

• Manage the operational demands of funding

In short, they ask: Can this organization make the most of the opportunity, and grow from it?

---

📑 Example of a Project the Fund Might Support

Let’s explore a hypothetical case of a project that aligns well with the Fund’s selection criteria:

Project:
An immigrant-led organization in the U.S. partners with local employers to pilot a new model that recognizes foreign-trained engineers’ credentials without requiring re-licensure. The program offers mentorship, alternative certification pathways, and policy advocacy to scale the model statewide.

Why it aligns:

• It addresses workforce access and credential recognition

• It is led by immigrants and rooted in community

• It challenges systemic licensing barriers

• It includes policy, service, and innovation components

• It aims for scalable, lasting impact

---

🤝 How the Fund Identifies Potential Projects

The Fund doesn’t rely solely on open applications. Projects and partners may be identified through:

• Community engagement and listening sessions

• Referrals from peer funders or networks

• Participation in immigrant rights or workforce coalitions

• Responses to strategic calls for proposals

• Co-creation opportunities and invitations to collaborate

That’s why visibility, trust, and engagement in the broader ecosystem are just as important as application quality.

---

🛠️ The Role of FACTS Transcripts in Empowering Fund-Aligned Projects

Many initiatives supported by the Mariam Assefa Fund focus on credential access, education-to-employment pipelines, and professional reintegration for immigrants.

FACTS Transcripts is a valuable operational partner for these projects.

If your program involves:

• Supporting immigrants in obtaining official academic records

• Submitting documentation to credential evaluation agencies

• Helping internationally educated professionals re-enter their field

• Partnering with institutions on licensing and certification pathways

…FACTS Transcripts provides secure, university-sealed documentation that is globally recognized, efficiently processed, and tailored to regulatory bodies.

This not only boosts your program impact but also strengthens your case when presenting your work to funders.

---

📋 Final Checklist: Are You a Strong Fit for Support?

Ask yourself these questions:

• Is your work focused on immigrant and refugee inclusion?

• Do you engage affected communities in your leadership and design?

• Are you challenging or reforming unjust systems?

• Is your team diverse and equity-driven?

• Are you open to growth, feedback, and shared learning?

If your answer is yes, then your project is aligned with the spirit and purpose of the Fund.

---

📝 Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Funding—It’s About Changing the World Together

The Mariam Assefa Fund doesn’t fund projects to fix problems—it funds people and ideas to reimagine the future.

Their selection process reflects this bold mission. It’s not about fitting into a grant template—it’s about building relationships, shifting power, and centering equity in every decision.

So whether you’re a grassroots leader or the head of a nonprofit, the question isn’t just “How do I get selected?”—it’s “How can I be part of something bigger than myself?”

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.

In a world where migrants, refugees, and displaced individuals continue to face systemic barriers to opportunity, the Mariam Assefa Fund serves as a beacon of inclusive philanthropy. Established to transform systems and drive equity, the Fund invests in individuals and organizations committed to advancing immigrant inclusion, economic justice, and workforce development in the United States and Canada.

If you are an organization, community leader, nonprofit, social enterprise, or grassroots coalition working to uplift immigrant and refugee communities, you may be asking:
“What are the basic eligibility requirements for the Mariam Assefa Fund’s grants?”

In this extensive guide, we break down the fundamental eligibility criteria, explore the Fund’s values and funding priorities, and offer practical guidance on how to determine if your organization is a strong candidate for partnership or funding.

---

🌍 The Mariam Assefa Fund: A Mission Built on Equity and Systems Change

Before exploring eligibility, it’s essential to understand the unique philosophy behind the Mariam Assefa Fund.

Unlike traditional grantmakers that focus solely on program delivery, the Fund emphasizes systems-level change, lived experience leadership, and long-term transformation. Its goal is not merely to alleviate challenges, but to dismantle the root causes of inequity that affect immigrants and refugees.

Priority areas include:

• Inclusive and equitable workforce development

• Foreign credential recognition and fair evaluation systems

• Support for immigrant- and refugee-led organizations

• Community power-building and leadership development

• Racial and economic justice across institutions and industries

---

🛠️ Basic Eligibility Requirements: Who Can Apply?

While each funding opportunity may come with specific guidelines or application instructions, there are several core eligibility criteria that apply across the board. Let’s explore them in detail.

---

✅ 1. Legal Status and Organizational Structure

The Fund typically supports organizations that are legally registered and operating within the United States or Canada.

Eligible entities may include:

• Nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3) in the U.S. or registered charities in Canada)

• Community-based organizations

• Grassroots collectives with fiscal sponsors

• Social enterprises and mission-driven companies

• Research institutions or universities (with relevant community engagement)

• Worker cooperatives or coalitions supporting economic justice

Note: Unincorporated groups or individuals may still be eligible if they have a fiscal sponsor or are participating in a special fellowship or leadership initiative run by the Fund.

---

✅ 2. Geographic Focus

The Fund currently operates in North America, with grants targeted toward initiatives in:

• United States

• Canada

While your organization does not have to be national in scope, your work should directly benefit immigrants, refugees, or displaced persons within these regions.

---

✅ 3. Alignment with the Fund’s Mission and Strategic Priorities

One of the most important eligibility benchmarks is how well your organization or proposed project aligns with the Fund’s mission.

You are likely eligible if you work on:

• Empowering immigrant and refugee communities

• Workforce access and labor rights for migrants

• Credential recognition for foreign-trained professionals

• Leadership development for underrepresented voices

• Systems reform in education, licensing, or employment

• Advocacy, research, or policy innovation in immigrant inclusion

---

✅ 4. Immigrant and Refugee Leadership

Organizations that center the voices and leadership of immigrants and refugees are strongly encouraged to apply.

Examples include:

• Organizations founded or led by immigrants or refugees

• Programs co-created with affected communities

• Coalitions that meaningfully engage lived-experience leaders

• Governance structures that reflect community diversity

This is not just a preference—it’s a principle that guides the Fund’s grantmaking decisions.

---

✅ 5. Track Record or Emerging Potential

You don’t need to be a large or long-established organization to qualify. The Fund welcomes emerging leaders, pilot programs, and grassroots efforts—provided there’s evidence of community trust and impact.

You may qualify if:

• You have successfully implemented similar initiatives in the past

• You have community partnerships or testimonials supporting your work

• Your organization has systems in place to manage grants, budgets, and outcomes

• You are open to learning, adapting, and documenting impact

---

✅ 6. Commitment to Equity, Justice, and Inclusion

The Mariam Assefa Fund invests in organizations that are actively working to challenge racism, xenophobia, and exclusion—both externally and internally.

Your organization should demonstrate:

• A commitment to inclusive practices (staffing, leadership, outreach)

• A theory of change grounded in social and economic equity

• Transparency in how community stakeholders are engaged

• Efforts to decolonize philanthropy and shift power to the grassroots

---

🚫 Who May Not Be Eligible?

While the Fund is inclusive and flexible, there are certain entities and projects that are typically not eligible, such as:

• Organizations working outside the U.S. or Canada

• For-profit companies with no social or community benefit

• Initiatives focused solely on religious conversion or partisan politics

• Projects that are one-time events with no long-term impact

• Groups lacking financial transparency or accountability systems

---

📋 Sample Scenarios of Eligible Applicants

Let’s look at a few examples to illustrate who would meet the basic eligibility criteria:

---

✅ A nonprofit helping immigrant nurses re-enter the healthcare workforce by providing credential support, exam prep, and job placement assistance in Toronto.

Eligible: Aligns with workforce development, regional focus, and immigrant inclusion.

---

✅ A community-led coalition in Chicago that advocates for fair licensing practices and access to higher education for undocumented students.

Eligible: Systems change work rooted in racial justice and immigrant advocacy.

---

✅ An immigrant-founded social enterprise in Vancouver offering language and skills training for refugee women, with a scalable model for inclusive hiring.

Eligible: Immigrant-led, community-rooted, and addressing systemic barriers.

---

💼 The Role of FACTS Transcripts in Supporting Eligible Applicants

Many organizations seeking grants from the Mariam Assefa Fund work in areas that involve academic documentation, credential verification, and foreign qualification recognition. This is where FACTS Transcripts becomes a key operational ally.

If your initiative involves:

• Helping immigrants and refugees access their original academic transcripts

• Supporting licensing for foreign-trained engineers, teachers, or health professionals

• Preparing documentation for credential evaluation agencies

• Bridging education-to-employment gaps with verified documents

…then FACTS Transcripts can support your project in delivering high-quality, credible, and internationally accepted results.

Benefits include:

• Secure transcript collection from Indian and international universities

• University-sealed documents ready for evaluation

• Assistance with WES, ICAS, IQAS, and other credential agencies

• Streamlined service for organizations managing large client volumes

By integrating FACTS into your delivery model, you increase the efficacy and impact of your work—making you a more compelling grantee candidate.

---

📑 Preparing for the Application: What Comes Next?

Once you confirm your eligibility, prepare to:

• Articulate your theory of change and impact strategy

• Gather documents that reflect your governance and financial accountability

• Highlight your leadership story and community trust

• Share your willingness to learn, adapt, and collaborate

You don’t need to be perfect—you need to be purpose-driven and people-centered.

---

📝 Final Thoughts: Eligibility Is the First Step Toward Partnership

Becoming a grantee of the Mariam Assefa Fund is about more than just funding. It’s about joining a community of changemakers who are building an equitable future for immigrants, refugees, and all who seek dignity, opportunity, and belonging.

If your organization:

• Serves or is led by immigrants and refugees

• Works in the U.S. or Canada

• Advances equity, economic justice, and systems change

• Has a mission that aligns with the Fund’s values

…then you already meet the basic eligibility to apply or engage.

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.

In an era marked by growing global migration, the need to build inclusive economies and equitable systems has never been greater. The Mariam Assefa Fund has emerged as a trailblazer in this mission—investing in visionary leaders, community-based organizations, and systems-change efforts that support immigrants and refugees in accessing dignified work, quality education, and long-term economic mobility.

For nonprofits, social entrepreneurs, advocacy groups, research institutions, and grassroots coalitions working in these areas, the possibility of becoming a grantee partner with the Mariam Assefa Fund is not just a funding opportunity—it’s a pathway to collaboration, transformation, and long-term impact.

But what does it take to become a grantee partner?
What criteria does the Fund use to evaluate potential collaborators?

This comprehensive blog breaks down the selection process, guiding values, evaluation benchmarks, and tips for positioning your organization or initiative for success.

---

🌍 The Mission Behind the Mariam Assefa Fund

Before examining the selection criteria, it’s important to understand the vision and strategy of the Fund.

The Mariam Assefa Fund is focused on building inclusive systems and equitable economies where immigrants and refugees thrive. Its approach goes beyond charity and direct services—it supports systems change, community leadership, and policy advocacy to create long-lasting transformation.

Key priority areas include:

• Inclusive workforce development

• Credential recognition and foreign qualification access

• Immigrant- and refugee-led innovation

• Economic mobility for underrepresented communities

• Racial and social justice in labor systems

Grantee partnerships are a core strategy in achieving these goals.

---

🧭 The Fund’s Approach to Grantee Selection

Unlike traditional grantmaking models that prioritize rigid metrics or short-term deliverables, the Mariam Assefa Fund embraces a trust-based, equity-centered, and collaborative approach to partner selection.

This means the Fund looks for more than just project proposals—it seeks values-aligned partners who are deeply rooted in their communities, committed to systemic impact, and ready to experiment, learn, and lead.

---

✅ Core Criteria for Selecting Grantee Partners

Below are the key criteria the Fund typically uses to evaluate prospective grantees. While not exhaustive, these indicators reflect the Fund’s philosophy and strategy:

---

1. Mission Alignment and Systems-Level Focus

The organization’s work must align with the Fund’s overarching goals of immigrant and refugee inclusion, workforce equity, and systems transformation.

What this means:

• You work to dismantle structural barriers in employment, education, or recognition of foreign credentials

• You promote community-led solutions that address inequities in labor, healthcare, education, or policy

• Your work doesn’t just fill gaps—it seeks to change the systems that create those gaps

---

2. Immigrant and Refugee Leadership

Organizations that center lived experience—particularly those led by immigrants or refugees—are given high priority.

What this means:

• Your leadership team or board includes people from immigrant/refugee backgrounds

• You co-design programs with the communities you serve

• You uplift voices that have historically been excluded from philanthropy, policy, and decision-making

---

3. Community-Based and Grassroots Roots

The Fund values organizations that are deeply embedded in their communities and have strong relationships with the people they serve.

What this means:

• You have authentic local partnerships

• Your work responds to direct community needs

• You’re seen as a trusted resource and advocate by immigrant communities

---

4. Commitment to Racial and Economic Equity

Prospective partners should demonstrate a clear and intentional commitment to dismantling racism, xenophobia, and economic injustice.

What this means:

• Your work includes strategies to address racial disparities

• You consider intersectionality (race, class, immigration status, gender, etc.) in your program design

• You have internal policies or practices promoting DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion)

---

5. Innovation and Adaptability

The Fund supports ideas that challenge the status quo, experiment with new models, or pilot bold approaches to persistent problems.

What this means:

• You’re open to trying new approaches or collaborations

• You view failure as part of innovation and learning

• You embrace flexibility rather than one-size-fits-all solutions

---

6. Capacity for Learning and Collaboration

The Fund isn’t just looking for grantees—it’s looking for partners. Organizations must be ready to co-create, reflect, share insights, and contribute to broader learning.

What this means:

• You engage in dialogue and feedback

• You’re willing to document lessons and share with peers

• You participate in peer learning groups or funder-grantee cohorts

---

7. Track Record and Potential for Impact

While the Fund supports small and emerging organizations, there is still an emphasis on:

• Demonstrated impact (even if small scale)

• Clear theory of change or strategic plan

• Organizational stability or growth potential

What this means:

• You have data, stories, or insights to show your value

• You can articulate how your work drives change

• You can handle multi-year or flexible funding responsibly

---

8. Trustworthiness and Ethical Practice

Given the trust-based approach to philanthropy, ethical and transparent practices are non-negotiable.

What this means:

• You treat community members as equal partners

• You operate with financial transparency

• You uphold accountability without overburdening your staff or stakeholders

---

📄 Beyond the Application: How Relationships Matter

The Mariam Assefa Fund often discovers partners through networks, referrals, and shared learning spaces. This means:

• You may be invited to apply even outside open calls

• Collaborative relationships and consistent engagement with immigrant justice spaces can open doors

• Shared values often speak louder than polished applications

In short, how you show up in your work is just as important as how you present your work on paper.

---

📋 Preparing Your Organization for Selection

If you aspire to become a grantee partner, here are concrete steps you can take to position yourself:

---

1. Document Your Impact and Story

Use both data and narrative to show how your organization is solving problems for immigrant and refugee communities.

---

2. Elevate Community Voice

Ensure that immigrant/refugee stakeholders are visible in your leadership, programming, and storytelling.

---

3. Invest in Relationships

Attend convenings, webinars, and gatherings related to immigrant inclusion, labor equity, or systems change.

---

4. Be Transparent About Challenges

Funders increasingly appreciate honesty about failures, setbacks, and lessons learned. Don’t be afraid to share what didn’t work—and what you learned.

---

5. Be Evaluation-Ready, But Not Evaluation-Burdened

The Fund prefers learning over surveillance. Show how you measure impact without relying solely on metrics.

---

🧩 Where FACTS Transcripts Fits In

Many organizations seeking funding from the Mariam Assefa Fund are involved in:

• Credential recognition

• Workforce integration of internationally educated professionals

• Advocacy for fair evaluation of foreign degrees

In such cases, FACTS Transcripts becomes a powerful operational ally. FACTS can:

• Collect and verify academic transcripts

• Help program participants prepare documentation for credential evaluators

• Provide support for large-scale or regional initiatives focused on immigrant workforce pathways

• Offer real-life data and case stories that enrich your grant applications

If you’re proposing a project that involves foreign qualification access or education-to-employment pipelines, working with FACTS Transcripts strengthens both your delivery capacity and your funding readiness.

---

📝 Final Thoughts: Equity First, Partnership Always

Becoming a grantee partner with the Mariam Assefa Fund is not about jumping through bureaucratic hoops. It’s about standing in alignment with a deeper mission—one that seeks to build an economy where immigrants and refugees can thrive without limitations.

If your organization:

• Centers immigrant leadership

• Works to change systems, not just serve needs

• Embraces equity, learning, and collaboration

…then you’re already well on your way to becoming a strong partner in this powerful movement.

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.

In a world where immigrant and refugee communities often face systemic barriers to economic mobility and social inclusion, the Mariam Assefa Fund stands out as a transformative philanthropic initiative. Launched to invest in inclusive systems and equitable access, the Fund supports organizations, leaders, and ideas that aim to build better futures for immigrants and refugees.

If you’re an organization, community leader, entrepreneur, researcher, or practitioner dedicated to advancing immigrant inclusion, you may be asking:

“How can I find out about new opportunities to collaborate or work with the Mariam Assefa Fund?”

This comprehensive blog will walk you through the various ways to stay updated, the types of opportunities the Fund provides, how to position yourself as a strong candidate for funding or partnership, and how working with a trusted documentation service like FACTS Transcripts can complement your efforts if your work touches on credential recognition or international education.

---

🌍 Understanding the Vision Behind the Mariam Assefa Fund

Before diving into how to work with the Fund, it’s important to understand its mission.

The Mariam Assefa Fund supports efforts to build inclusive economies and resilient communities by:

• Investing in immigrant and refugee leaders

• Promoting systems change in workforce development

• Supporting innovative models for credential recognition

• Amplifying community-led solutions

• Advancing racial and economic equity

The Fund’s approach is rooted in trust-based philanthropy, which emphasizes collaboration, equity, and the redistribution of power in funding relationships.

---

🎯 What Kinds of Opportunities Exist with the Fund?

The Mariam Assefa Fund does not operate like a traditional grantmaker. It offers a variety of collaborative and funding pathways, such as:

1. Open Calls for Proposals

Occasionally, the Fund announces open calls inviting organizations or leaders to submit ideas aligned with its strategic focus areas.

These proposals typically center on themes such as:

• Economic mobility for immigrant workers

• Credential evaluation reform

• Refugee entrepreneurship

• Inclusive hiring practices

• Worker-led organizing

2. Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations

The Fund often engages in co-creation with partners. This means organizations can be invited to explore solutions together, rather than compete in a one-size-fits-all application process.

These partnerships may involve:

• Multi-year grant agreements

• Technical assistance support

• Policy engagement projects

• Learning communities

3. Fellowships and Leadership Programs

Some opportunities are aimed at individual immigrant and refugee leaders, including fellowships, accelerator programs, or participatory grantmaking panels.

These are ideal for:

• Advocates and organizers

• Policy thinkers

• Social entrepreneurs

• Community builders

4. Research and Learning Collaborations

The Fund occasionally commissions or collaborates on research projects and policy briefs that examine barriers to economic inclusion or highlight immigrant workforce contributions.

---

📡 How to Stay Informed About New Opportunities

Since opportunities with the Mariam Assefa Fund are time-sensitive and often thematic, staying connected is crucial. Here are the best strategies to stay updated:

---

✅ 1. Subscribe to Updates

Most philanthropic initiatives issue regular newsletters that include:

• New grant opportunities

• Application timelines

• Webinar invitations

• Partnership stories

• Case studies from grantees

Subscribe using a work or organization-based email so that future communication isn’t routed to spam.

---

✅ 2. Follow Social Media and Professional Platforms

Grantmakers and changemaker funds increasingly share updates on platforms like:

• LinkedIn (for announcements and case studies)

• Twitter/X (for real-time engagement and thought leadership)

• YouTube or Vimeo (for recorded events or webinars)

Following their communication channels helps you be the first to know when a new initiative is launched.

---

✅ 3. Attend Virtual Info Sessions and Webinars

Whenever a new funding round or collaboration cycle opens, the Fund often hosts info sessions where you can:

• Learn about eligibility and application processes

• Ask questions in real time

• Meet members of the Fund’s team

• Hear from previous grantees or partners

Attending these sessions shows your commitment and helps you tailor your application more effectively.

---

✅ 4. Engage Through Ecosystem Partners

Many of the Fund’s grantees are deeply embedded in local communities and issue-based coalitions. By participating in:

• Immigrant integration networks

• Workforce development coalitions

• Equity-focused nonprofit associations

…you may hear about opportunities directly from current or past grantees.

---

✅ 5. Monitor Grant Aggregator Platforms

You can use platforms that publish social impact or philanthropic opportunities across regions. Set up alerts for keywords like:

• “Immigrant workforce”

• “Refugee inclusion”

• “Mariam Assefa Fund”

• “Equity in credentialing”

This helps you receive automated notifications when funding or collaboration announcements are made.

---

🧠 How to Prepare to Work with the Fund

Knowing about opportunities is only half the equation. To stand out, ensure your organization or idea is funding-ready:

---

📌 1. Align with the Fund’s Mission

Make sure your goals reflect the Fund’s core values:

• Equity and justice

• Immigrant and refugee leadership

• Long-term systems change

• Community-centered design

---

📌 2. Document Your Impact

Be prepared to share:

• Past success stories

• Quantitative and qualitative outcomes

• Community testimonials

• Evidence-based models of change

---

📌 3. Center Lived Experience

The Fund places strong emphasis on lived experience leadership. If your work includes immigrants or refugees in decision-making roles, highlight this clearly in your proposals or inquiries.

---

📌 4. Demonstrate Sustainability and Learning Culture

Grants and collaborations often go to partners that show not only passion but also:

• A culture of reflection

• Willingness to iterate

• Capacity to sustain impact after the grant cycle ends

---

📄 How FACTS Transcripts Can Support Your Work if You’re Applying

Many grantees working with immigrant communities deal with credential recognition, education mobility, or employment barriers. If your project involves:

• Helping immigrants rejoin regulated professions

• Supporting degree evaluation for skilled workers

• Assisting international students with educational pathways

…then you’ll need reliable documentation, transcripts, and academic verification processes.

FACTS Transcripts can:

• Collect and verify official academic records

• Facilitate credential submissions to evaluation agencies

• Assist your program participants in preparing documentation

• Offer bulk or organizational partnerships for service delivery

By integrating FACTS into your initiative, you ensure a seamless pathway for immigrant and refugee success—from qualifications to employment.

---

📝 Final Thoughts: Be Ready for the Right Moment

The Mariam Assefa Fund is not just a grantmaker—it’s a movement-builder. Its investment philosophy uplifts those often overlooked by traditional systems and centers trust, inclusion, and transformation.

So if you’re asking how to work with the Fund, the answer is:

• Stay connected

• Stay aligned

• Stay ready

Opportunities may come as grants, partnerships, or learning collaborations—and the best time to prepare is before the next call opens.

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.

The WES Mariam Assefa Fund has emerged as a powerful philanthropic initiative focused on advancing economic and social inclusion for immigrants and refugees. If you’re a member of the media—whether you’re a journalist, editor, producer, blogger, or documentary filmmaker—chances are you’ve heard about this fund and its transformative work in workforce development, immigrant integration, and systems change.

If you’re looking to get in touch for interviews, data, press releases, or comment on a related story, you’re likely wondering:
“How can I contact someone about the WES Mariam Assefa Fund?”

In this comprehensive blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: what the Fund is, why media outlets are interested in it, who the right contacts are, how to request interviews, and how to ensure your inquiry is seen, heard, and responded to efficiently—without relying on links or external websites.

---

🌍 What Is the WES Mariam Assefa Fund?

The WES Mariam Assefa Fund is a philanthropic arm focused on transforming systems to better serve immigrants and refugees. It operates with a bold vision of inclusive economies, where all people—regardless of origin—have access to dignified work, upward mobility, and social equity.

Named after Mariam Assefa, the long-serving former leader of WES and a champion for immigrant inclusion, the fund supports initiatives that:

• Expand economic opportunity

• Promote inclusive workforce systems

• Address systemic barriers to employment

• Foster innovation in education and credential recognition

• Empower immigrant and refugee leaders

Through grantmaking, partnerships, and policy engagement, the Fund acts as a catalyst for structural change across the U.S. and Canada.

---

🎥 Why Media Professionals Are Interested in the Fund

As newsrooms and media outlets expand their focus on equity, immigration, labor rights, and social justice, the WES Mariam Assefa Fund presents rich storytelling opportunities, including:

• Case studies of immigrant workers building new careers

• Profiles of community-based organizations receiving grants

• Reports on inclusive hiring and credential recognition reform

• Commentary on immigrant entrepreneurship and workforce policy

• Partnerships that connect philanthropic investment with systemic outcomes

Whether you’re working on a long-form feature, a podcast, a digital video, or a written report, the Fund’s initiatives offer both human interest and policy relevance.

---

✍️ When Should You Reach Out?

As a media professional, here are a few situations where you might want to contact the Fund’s team:

• To request an interview with a spokesperson, grantee, or subject matter expert

• To verify facts or obtain background information for a developing news story

• To gather insights on trends in workforce development or immigrant integration

• To request a media kit, photos, or quotes for a print or broadcast segment

• To collaborate on a feature or investigative project focusing on labor inclusion or migration

---

📬 How to Contact the WES Mariam Assefa Fund

While no direct link or web form is provided here, media professionals can reach the Fund through standard and effective media contact methods. Follow these steps to ensure your inquiry gets to the right person:

---

✅ 1. Craft a Media-Specific Email Request

Media teams appreciate clarity and relevance. Structure your message like this:

Subject Line: Media Request – Interview with [Spokesperson/Expert] Regarding WES Mariam Assefa Fund

Body:

• Your full name and role (e.g., journalist at The Times, producer at XYZ News)

• Name of your outlet and platform (digital, print, TV, podcast)

• Topic or angle of your story

• What you’re requesting (interview, quote, background, data)

• Deadline (be realistic and courteous)

• Contact details for reply (phone/email/availability)

Use a professional tone and avoid generic pitches. The more tailored and precise your request, the more likely it will be prioritized.

---

✅ 2. Identify the Right Department

While the WES Mariam Assefa Fund may be housed within a larger institutional structure, most organizations designate a media relations or communications department for handling press queries. Address your request to:

• Media Relations Manager

• Communications Director

• Public Affairs or Policy Lead (if it’s a policy-related story)

• Partnerships or Grants Coordinator (if your story involves grantees or impact measurement)

If you know a specific staff member by name, address them directly for quicker response.

---

✅ 3. Use Professional Channels of Communication

While social media platforms like Twitter or LinkedIn may help flag attention, the best way to secure formal comment or interviews is via:

• Email to the organization’s media contact address

• A phone call to the media hotline or general line with a press request

• Submission through a press inquiry form if one exists

Avoid using general inboxes for urgent media inquiries—unless that’s the only contact available.

---

✅ 4. Be Ready to Provide Credentials

Especially for sensitive topics, the Fund’s team may request verification of your role or outlet. Be prepared to share:

• A portfolio link or sample bylines

• Employer credentials

• A letter of assignment (if freelance)

This helps ensure that inquiries are vetted and prioritized accordingly.

---

🛠️ What to Expect After Reaching Out

Once you send your request, here’s what typically happens:

⏱️ Response Time

Media teams usually aim to reply within 1–3 business days, especially if your request is time-sensitive and well-written.

🗓️ Interview Scheduling

If approved, an interview with a Fund representative or expert may be arranged via Zoom, phone, or email Q&A.

🗃️ Background Materials

You may receive:

• Fact sheets

• Press kits

• Program impact summaries

• Grantee contact information (if relevant and permitted)

• Approved images or logos for publication

🔄 Coordination with Grantee Organizations

If your story includes community organizations funded by the Mariam Assefa Fund, the communications team may facilitate introductions, joint statements, or site visits.

---

🧩 Media Stories You Can Explore

If you’re looking for angles or ideas, consider the following story themes:

• How immigrant nurses and engineers are reentering their fields through credential support

• The role of philanthropic capital in transforming hiring systems

• Stories of refugee entrepreneurship supported by local grantees

• Breaking the “survival job” cycle: pathways to mobility for immigrants

• Case studies on how localized investments have systemic impact

The Fund’s initiatives are deeply tied to real-world outcomes—making them ideal for storytelling that blends human emotion, data, and public interest.

---

🤝 How FACTS Transcripts Can Help Media Professionals Too

While the WES Mariam Assefa Fund works at the philanthropic and systems-change level, FACTS Transcripts operates at the ground level—helping real students, professionals, and immigrants collect and submit the academic records needed to build new lives abroad.

Media professionals working on stories about:

• Credential recognition

• Barriers in international hiring

• Immigrant struggles with documentation

• Higher education access for foreign-trained professionals

…can contact FACTS Transcripts for background, case studies, and data-driven commentary.

FACTS can help you connect with real-life subjects facing documentation barriers, navigating international systems, or rebuilding careers overseas.

---

📝 Final Thoughts: Building Bridges Through Informed Media

As a journalist or media professional, your work shapes public opinion, policy discourse, and institutional accountability. Connecting with the WES Mariam Assefa Fund allows you to shed light on the hidden barriers and untapped potential of immigrant communities—while showcasing scalable, systemic solutions.

Whether you’re crafting a feature story, exploring a grant recipient’s journey, or contextualizing the role of inclusive philanthropy, your first step is simply this: reach out professionally, clearly, and purposefully.

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.

For students and professionals aiming to study, work, or immigrate to countries like the United States or Canada, understanding how their academic performance translates into a standardized format such as the 4.0 GPA scale is essential. One tool that helps in this process is the International GPA Calculator (iGPA). This tool allows you to estimate your grade point average based on your foreign academic credentials, offering an early glimpse of how your grades compare globally.

Naturally, one of the most frequently asked questions is:
“How much does the WES iGPA cost?”

In this comprehensive blog, we explore the pricing structure, what you actually get from the iGPA tool, when it’s worth using, what it doesn’t include, and how services like FACTS Transcripts can complement this process to ensure your academic profile is globally recognized and accepted.

---

🎓 What Is the WES iGPA?

The iGPA (International GPA) is a preliminary tool designed to help individuals understand how their foreign grades and academic performance would likely convert into the 4.0 scale used by North American institutions. It’s especially useful for:

• International students applying to U.S. or Canadian universities

• Professionals preparing credential evaluation documentation

• Immigration applicants checking their education-related points

• Scholarship seekers looking to understand GPA requirements

While the iGPA is a helpful self-assessment tool, it is not a substitute for an official credential evaluation.

---

💰 So, How Much Does the iGPA Tool Cost?

The WES iGPA tool is completely free of charge. Yes, you read that right — there is no cost to use the calculator. You don’t have to pay to:

• Create an account

• Use the calculator

• Enter your academic information

• View your estimated GPA results

This makes it an excellent zero-cost, low-risk option for prospective applicants who simply want to assess their standing before investing in full evaluations or applying to institutions.

---

🛠️ What You Can Do with the Free iGPA Tool

Although it’s free, the iGPA tool provides several valuable features:

✅ 1. Convert Grades from International Systems

You can input your marks, percentages, or letter grades from various countries and see how they convert into the 4.0 GPA format.

✅ 2. Get a Subject-by-Subject Breakdown

The calculator often allows you to enter data for multiple courses, helping you see how each subject contributes to your overall GPA.

✅ 3. Assess Program Eligibility

If you’re targeting programs with minimum GPA requirements, the iGPA helps you determine whether you’re likely to qualify.

✅ 4. Test Multiple Scenarios

You can experiment with different sets of grades (e.g., UG vs. PG marks) to get a feel for how your profile changes across applications.

---

⚠️ What the Free iGPA Tool Does Not Include

While the iGPA is useful for general guidance, it’s important to understand what it doesn’t offer, especially if you’re preparing for high-stakes applications:

❌ No Official Documentation

The tool does not generate a certificate or report that can be submitted to universities, immigration offices, or employers. It is for informational purposes only.

❌ No Document Verification

The iGPA calculator doesn’t verify the authenticity of your academic transcripts or confirm that the grades entered are correct.

❌ No Involvement of Your University

Unlike a formal credential evaluation, the iGPA does not require transcripts to be sent directly from your university.

❌ No Weight for Institutional Reputation

Your institution’s academic rigor, ranking, or accreditation is not factored into the GPA estimate.

❌ No Recognition by Admissions or Immigration

Admission committees, licensing boards, and immigration offices will not accept iGPA printouts as official evidence of your academic standing.

---

📊 Why Is It Free?

The iGPA calculator is free because it is meant to serve as a preliminary planning tool. The intention is to:

• Help users make informed decisions about whether to proceed with a paid, formal credential evaluation

• Encourage students to align their academic goals with admission and visa requirements

• Reduce uncertainty before submitting applications that require time and financial investment

It also helps users identify whether their marks are competitive enough for their desired academic or career pathways.

---

💼 When Should You Move from iGPA to Full Evaluation?

While the iGPA is helpful for estimating your GPA, there comes a point where you’ll need a formal credential evaluation. This step usually comes when:

• A university requires an official academic equivalency report

• An immigration agency requests proof of educational background

• A professional licensing body needs verified transcripts and GPA

• A job application demands validated credentials

At this stage, you’ll need to engage a trusted evaluation agency and submit official transcripts, often in sealed envelopes issued directly by your university.

---

🧾 The Role of FACTS Transcripts in Supporting Your Journey

This is where FACTS Transcripts becomes essential. While the iGPA tool gives you an estimate, FACTS helps you prepare the documents that actually get evaluated. Their services include:

• Collecting official transcripts from your university

• Verifying the academic documents to ensure accuracy

• Preparing university-sealed envelopes acceptable to credential evaluators

• Shipping transcripts securely to agencies, universities, or immigration authorities

• Providing guidance on required documents based on your destination country and purpose (education, immigration, employment, etc.)

With FACTS Transcripts by your side, you move from unofficial estimation to globally recognized documentation—bridging the gap between aspiration and achievement.

---

📋 Quick Summary: Free iGPA vs. Formal Evaluation

---

📝 Final Thoughts: Know the Difference, Use the Right Tools

To answer the central question — the iGPA tool is free to use, but its function is limited to estimation. It’s a great way to start your academic or immigration planning, especially if you’re unsure whether your foreign qualifications will meet the expectations of institutions abroad.

However, when it’s time to submit documents, apply for programs, or present verified qualifications to authorities, you need more than an estimate—you need documentation that is accurate, verified, and accepted internationally.

That’s where the partnership between free tools like the iGPA calculator and professional services like FACTS Transcripts becomes powerful. Together, they provide both the knowledge and the tools you need to succeed.

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.

In today’s digital-first world, much of the academic credential evaluation and GPA calculation process has moved online. From using GPA calculators to submitting transcripts for evaluation, international students and professionals depend heavily on smooth, secure, and efficient digital systems.

But what happens when technical issues arise?

Whether you’re using a GPA calculator tool, uploading academic documents, or submitting an application to an evaluation service, technical glitches can disrupt your timeline, jeopardize your admission or immigration plans, and lead to unnecessary frustration.

In this detailed guide, we will explore the different types of technical issues you might face, why they occur, how to solve them, and how a reliable service provider like FACTS Transcripts can help you navigate these challenges effectively.

---

💻 Common Technical Issues in GPA Calculation and Document Submission

Here are some of the most frequent technical problems users report:

---

1. Website Not Loading or Freezing

You visit the GPA tool or document submission page, and the site is either extremely slow or completely non-responsive.

Possible causes:

• Server overload or downtime

• Internet connectivity issues on your side

• Browser compatibility issues

• Software or firewall blocking the site

---

2. Grades or Data Not Saving

You enter your course titles, grades, and credits, only to find the system hasn’t saved the data—or it disappears when you try to view the GPA result.

Possible causes:

• Session timeout due to inactivity

• JavaScript errors or unsupported browser versions

• Cache/cookie overload

• Glitches in the web form

---

3. Login or Account Access Problems

You created an account with a GPA or credential evaluation platform, but now can’t log in, reset your password, or verify your email.

Possible causes:

• Incorrect email or password input

• Delayed verification email (check your spam/junk folder)

• Temporary lockout after multiple failed attempts

• Account disabled due to inactivity or suspicious activity

---

4. Upload Failures

You try uploading your transcripts, mark sheets, degree certificates, or supporting documents—and the system fails repeatedly.

Possible causes:

• File size exceeds limit (usually 2–5 MB per file)

• Unsupported file formats (e.g., .zip instead of .pdf or .jpg)

• Browser blocks upload scripts

• Upload interrupted due to poor internet

---

5. Inaccurate GPA Output

You enter your grades, but the GPA calculator shows an inaccurate result or errors in credit interpretation.

Possible causes:

• Incorrect grading scale selected

• Grade inputs not matching the calculator’s expectations

• Technical glitch in grade-conversion formula

---

6. No Confirmation or Receipt After Submission

You’ve completed your GPA calculation or submitted your application, but don’t receive any email confirmation or on-screen acknowledgment.

Possible causes:

• Email delivery failure or spam filter

• Server-side failure to generate a receipt

• Incomplete form submission

---

🔍 Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

If you’re facing any of the above issues, here’s a step-by-step checklist to fix the problem before panicking or restarting the entire process:

---

✅ Step 1: Check Internet Connectivity

• Run a speed test

• Switch from mobile data to Wi-Fi or vice versa

• Avoid using public or shared networks during uploads

---

✅ Step 2: Switch or Update Your Browser

• Use updated versions of Chrome, Firefox, or Edge

• Disable browser extensions that might interfere (especially ad blockers or privacy tools)

• Clear browser cache and cookies before starting

---

✅ Step 3: Use the Recommended File Types and Sizes

• Stick to commonly accepted formats: PDF, JPEG, PNG

• Resize or compress files using free tools before uploading

• Name files clearly: “Transcript_UniversityName.pdf” rather than random strings

---

✅ Step 4: Take Screenshots of Any Errors

If the site crashes or shows error messages, capture screenshots. These will be extremely useful when contacting support or escalating the issue.

---

✅ Step 5: Try Another Device or Network

If you’re using a smartphone or an outdated laptop, try switching to a different device. Many web portals run smoother on desktop browsers than mobile versions.

---

✅ Step 6: Look for Help or Contact Support

Check the platform for:

• FAQ sections or help guides

• Support chat windows

• Customer service email or ticket submission portals

When writing to support, always include:

• Your name and email

• A detailed description of the issue

• A screenshot (if available)

• The exact time/date the error occurred

---

📧 When and How to Contact Technical Support

Reaching out to support is the best course of action when:

• You’re unable to upload documents after multiple tries

• Your login credentials no longer work

• You get repeated error messages during GPA calculation

• You don’t receive confirmation for a completed task

Keep your message concise and specific. Avoid vague descriptions like “It’s not working” and instead say, for example:

“I uploaded my transcript as a PDF (3.2MB) from Delhi University, but the system froze and displayed a timeout error twice on June 25 at 10:40 PM IST.”

This helps the technical team identify the issue faster and offer accurate solutions.

---

📂 How to Keep Your Work Safe During Technical Glitches

While technology can fail, you can prevent data loss with a few smart habits:

• Always save GPA input data separately in a Word or Excel document

• Create backups of your transcripts and certificates in cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox)

• Take screenshots of completed pages or upload receipts before closing the browser

• If using a GPA calculator, print or export the result immediately

---

🛡️ How FACTS Transcripts Helps You Avoid Technical Hassles

Navigating GPA tools, university portals, and credential evaluators can be overwhelming—especially when technical errors stand in your way. FACTS Transcripts provides expert academic documentation services that eliminate the need for technical guesswork.

FACTS ensures:

• Hassle-free transcript procurement from your university

• Sealed, evaluator-ready documentation with zero upload errors

• End-to-end application handling, including dispatch to credential evaluators

• Guided support in case your online application gets stuck or rejected due to system errors

By letting FACTS manage the academic document process, you bypass many of the technical errors common in self-service portals.

---

📝 Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Technical Glitches Derail Your Dreams

Technical issues are an unfortunate reality of digital systems—but they are almost always solvable. Whether you’re calculating your GPA, uploading transcripts, or submitting an evaluation application, a proactive approach to troubleshooting can save you time, stress, and missed deadlines.

Key reminders:

• Prepare your files in advance

• Use reliable devices and browsers

• Document every step

• Don’t hesitate to seek help

• Trust professionals like FACTS Transcripts to handle the complex parts

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:

• Mark Sheet Transcripts
• E-Transcripts
• Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
• Medium of Instructions Certificates
• Attestations
• HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.

FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.