At Women Innovating Together (WITfm), we believe in empowering women to thrive in the tech industry through education, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Our scholarship programs are designed to help women advance their careers, gain new skills, and become future leaders in the tech world.

WITfm

You Can’t Win if You Don’t Enter!

Portage Bay Solutions consists of twelve people across several states – our home base of Washington, plus California, Illinois, Nebraska, and Texas. I’m one of four women on our team – a full third of the headcount! – and am glad to say we are all members of WITfm – Women Innovating Together.

• Myself, our Project Coordinator and Licensing & Hosting Manager (also this year’s Donor Relations Lead for WITfm)
• Kate, our Managing Director and Lead Developer (also active in several WITfm committees)
• Annie, our Office Manager and Project Coordinator
• and Tabitha, our Digital Marketing Assistant

We are each experiencing the benefits of being part of a dedicated and supportive group of women to help in our careers but also in our lives and families outside of work.

We are always glad to promote the work of WITfm and wanted to let you know that scholarship applications are now being accepted, through December 20th.

What is WITfm?

Women Innovating Together is a nonprofit organization that empowers women working with Claris products, like FileMaker. The group began in 1999 as an informal breakfast meeting for four women and over the last twenty-five years we’ve grown into a global community supporting women in technology careers – through networking, scholarships, mentorship, and leadership opportunities.

You don’t need to be solely a FileMaker developer in order to be a part of the group. WITfm membership and support extends to women in all types of roles within the Claris FileMaker community – experienced devs, fledgling learners, students, and citizen developers. Along with managers, coordinators, assistants, and any women who interact with FileMaker in their range of careers.

Several WITfm Scholarship Opportunities are Available Now!

WITfm has a long history of helping women learn and grow. There are two categories of scholarships, though multiple opportunities may be awarded in each. Put your application together and be sure to submit it before 12/20/24!

The Shin Memorial Scholarship

For Women in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region

Created in loving memory of Shin Ninagawa, an inspiring leader and friend to many, this scholarship is available to women in the APAC region who are passionate about growing their skills in technology. Whether you’re attending Claris Engage or other FileMaker developer conference, or pursuing specialized training, this scholarship will help you unlock new opportunities and elevate your career.

General WITfm Scholarship

Open to All Women in Technology

This scholarship is for women around the world who are passionate about tech and eager to learn and grow. Whether you’re a developer, a database expert, or someone supporting tech initiatives, the General WITfm Scholarship can help fund your participation in professional development courses and certifications, or your attendance at Claris Engage or another FileMaker developer conference. It’s open to all career stages, from students to seasoned professionals.

Included in this category is the Karyn Witzel Scholarship, donated by The Support Group.

Send In Your Essay or Video

• Submit an essay or video sharing your story, career goals, and how this scholarship will help you make an impact in the tech field.
• Applications are open until December 20th, 2024 – don’t miss your chance to apply!
• Join the ranks of these women who have also applied and benefitted from WITfm’s support!

What’s in it for You?

• 1-Year Free Membership to WITfm: Gain access to Slack and Facebook communities, where you can connect with other women in tech, industry leaders, and mentors.
• Financial Support: Use the scholarship to attend a Claris Engage or FileMaker developer conference, or to participate in a training program that aligns with your career goals.
• Network & Grow: Join a global community of women in tech, build lasting connections, and open doors to exciting new career opportunities.

What Will You Do With Your WITfm Scholarship?

Many women have used their scholarships to attend Claris Engage or another FileMaker developer conference. But you can also use your award to participate in a training program that aligns with your career goals.

Earlier in the year Kate put her scholarship toward attending SXSW Interactive in Austin, Texas. And I’m using my award to take a certification course in Digital Project Management, while also pursuing planning and communications lessons through MasterClass.

(We’re encouraging Annie and Tabitha to apply, too!)

Help Spread the Word!

Know someone who could benefit from these scholarships? Share this opportunity with your network!
I’m also asking for your support in boosting awareness – feel free to repost and engage with WITfm’s social media content to help reach more women in tech.

Have Questions?

Contact WITfm to ask questions and learn more about the mentoring and development opportunities you can be part of.