This paper evaluates the 2011 reform by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), which aimed to enhance female representation by extending the eligibility age for the Young Scientist Grant (YSG) from 35 to 40 for women. Analysis of NSFC grant data reveals a 10 percentage point increase in female YSG awardees post-reform, a 30% rise compared to pre-reform levels. The quality of female awardees over 35, measured by their pre-award publications, is comparable to that of their male peers. The reform led to a 15 percentage point increase in the likelihood of holding an active grant by age 42 for affected women, largely due to the YSG, with minimal effects on other grant types. Additionally, the reform unintentionally directed more YSG funds to previously underfunded regions and institutions and increased the proportion of female researchers in funded teams.