[1] The first Zonta Club was founded in Buffalo, New York, United States, in 1919 by a group of businesswomen under the leadership of Marian de Forest.

[13] Over the last century, Zonta has contributed more than US$45.9 million to empower women and girls and expand their access to education, health care, economic opportunities, and safe living conditions.

The 2020-2022 grant cycle will provide US$5,280,000 for programs that address the root causes of gender discrimination and have the potential to bring about positive and sustainable societal changes.

[6] Since its creation, Zonta International has provided more than US$13 million to UNICEF to empower women and girls and expand their access to education, health care, economic opportunities and safe living conditions.

In addition, Zonta USA sits on the Steering committee of the National Coalition to End Child Marriage in the United States.

This signature campaign features actions to prevent and end violence against women and girls [19] in the communities of Zonta International’s more than 62 countries worldwide.

[21] “Around the world, foundations and businesses are prioritizing efforts to advance gender equality and women’s rights for they recognize that this is the key to development.

Zonta International’s support on this front is exemplary,” said Lakshmi Puri, Deputy Executive Director of UN Women.

Eliminating human trafficking is critical to enabling women to achieve their full potential and live without fear of exploitation and violence.

[31] The Fellowship of US$10,000, awarded to 35 Fellows around the globe each year,[32] may be used at any university or college offering accredited post-graduate courses and degrees in these fields.

[30] Awardees are selected from applicants who demonstrate a commitment to leadership in public policy, government and volunteer organizations,[38][39] particularly on behalf of women and girls.