Advancing Women Artists Foundation (AWA) was an American not-for-profit organization (501(c)3),[1] with headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Florence, Italy.

Although the organization is no longer operative, the website will remain accessible as a digital archive and a resource for those interested in research, restoration and exhibition of art by women in Florence.

This all began when she picked up a book about Suor Plautilla Nelli, a sixteenth-century Florence painter whom she was unfamiliar with and realised the goal to bring awareness to little-known women artists.

[5][9] AWA is supported by private contributors and institutions that are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting works by women artists, particularly in Florence, Italy.

The awards are designed to give recognition to women within the Fine Arts sector by commending their commitment to enhancing Florence and its artistic heritage.