In September 2016 GRIT&ROCK Foundation, a UK-based charity, established an annual international expedition grant award to promote female first ascents. The aims of the GRIT&ROCK Expedition Award are to encourage female participation in pioneering alpine ascents and to further the understanding and exploration of the unclimbed peaks. The Award is open to individuals and climbing teams of any nationality with a majority female participation.
Since its inception five years ago, the foundation has contributed grants toward 25 female-led expeditions totaling $50,000.
On February 4, 2021, the jury chaired by Victor Saunders, reviewed applications and made a decision to award the following grants for 2021: