Apply for a WIFA Growth Grant

ACE is committed to advancing the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) among all exercise professionals and health coaches, including our ACE Certified Professionals and ACE Employees. In partnership with the Women In Fitness Association (WIFA), ACE is expanding our EDI efforts by supporting women and the advancement of their careers in the health and fitness industry through the WIFA Growth Grant.

Creating and supporting growth opportunities for women in the fitness industry is more important than ever. According to a recent report analyzing U.S. Census data, women make up 58% of the recreation and fitness workforce, but only earn 86 cents to every dollar earned by men in the same occupation.

Globally, women only make up 29% of senior leadership positions (e.g., CEO, CFO, COO, CIO, CMO). In a sector in which women outpace men in health club memberships consumption, women should be equally represented to acknowledge and celebrate their contributions to the industry. WIFA and ACE believe this is possible through investing in women exercise professionals and health coaches.

As the only global non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women in the health and fitness industry, WIFA provides its members with unparalleled career development and networking opportunities. Proudly funded by ACE, the WIFA Growth Grant was created to provide eligible health and fitness professionals with a 1-year WIFA membership to accelerate their career. This opportunity is open to current ACE Certified Professionals who are, or identify as, a woman. ACE and WIFA believe that when everyone feels included and respected, there will be progress, innovation and success in the industry. Learn more about the ACE and WIFA partnership here.