Small Grants Fund

The RISE Together Fund Small Grants Fund is administered by Proteus Fund, a U.S.-based public charity recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Proteus Fund operates as an intermediary grantmaker that supports social justice initiatives, and the RISE Together Fund specifically focuses on strengthening movements serving Black, African, Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, and South Asian communities. Through this funding opportunity, the program aims to support organizations working to build community power and respond to systemic inequities, discrimination, and threats to civil and human rights impacting these communities. The primary purpose of the Small Grants Fund is to resource organizations that are engaged in long-term systems change through community organizing, advocacy, and movement-building strategies. The fund prioritizes efforts that protect immigrant and refugee rights, increase civic participation, challenge harmful national security frameworks, advocate for policy change related to international human rights issues, and respond to emerging threats affecting target communities. The fund also emphasizes intersectional approaches and values organizations that are building sustainable infrastructure and leadership pipelines within their movements. Funding is generally provided as general operating support, allowing recipients flexibility in how funds are used to advance their mission. In limited cases, project-based funding may be considered upon invitation. Grant funds must be used for charitable purposes consistent with 501(c)(3) regulations and cannot be used for partisan political activity, direct financial assistance to individuals, or activities unrelated to community power building. The fund does not support international work, scholarships, or direct service programs unless they are clearly tied to organizing and advocacy strategies. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based public charities with 501(c)(3) status as well as fiscally sponsored projects operating under such entities. Organizations must demonstrate strong ties to BAMEMSA communities, a track record of community engagement, and a clear strategy for long-term systems change. Additional eligibility considerations include financial stability, demonstrated community support, and alignment with the fund’s priority issue areas and strategies. Organizations that are classified as 501(c)(4) must apply through a separate process and are not eligible under this specific call. The application process is conducted through the Proteus Fund’s online Fluxx portal. Applicants must first complete an eligibility form, after which qualified organizations are invited to submit a narrative application. Required components include organizational descriptions, descriptions of impact strategies, identification of priority issue areas and strategies, and information about partnerships. Selected applicants may be asked to provide additional documentation such as budgets, fiscal sponsorship agreements, and financial details. The fund reviews applications on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted, and final funding decisions involve internal review and approval by Proteus Fund leadership. The application window for this funding opportunity opens on May 11, 2026 and closes on June 15, 2026. While proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis, applicants are encouraged to apply early due to limited funding availability. The total funding pool is approximately $700,000, with individual grant requests typically capped at $25,000, although higher requests may be considered in limited cases. Award notifications and disbursement timelines vary, but funds are generally distributed within two months after all required documentation is received. The program is structured as an annual funding opportunity, with future cycles anticipated based on continued funding availability and program priorities.

Align clearly with priority issue areas and demonstrate deep community roots and long-term systems change strategy; emphasize intersectional approaches and movement collaboration