Opportunity Fund - Arts and Social & Economic Justice

The Opportunity Fund offers grants to small and mid-sized organizations in two primary areas: the arts and social and economic justice. Rooted in the Greater Pittsburgh region, the Opportunity Fund is committed to supporting initiatives that foster creativity, inclusivity, and systemic change. At least 75% of its grants directly benefit the Greater Pittsburgh community, encompassing Allegheny County and surrounding areas. The fund’s grantmaking process prioritizes local impact and inclusive leadership, especially in communities historically excluded from philanthropic support. In the arts sector, the Opportunity Fund focuses on performing arts—particularly theatre, dance, classical chamber music, and jazz—as well as visual arts, especially craft-based disciplines. The fund is oriented toward smaller organizations that enrich the local cultural landscape and provide platforms for both emerging and established artists. The fund supports operational and programmatic needs, enabling recipients to maintain or expand their activities and deepen their community engagement. In the realm of social and economic justice, the fund emphasizes racial justice, civil liberties, reproductive freedom, and human rights. Its grants often support Black-led movement work and services for underserved populations, including access to housing, transportation, healthcare, and economic independence. These grants aim to address both immediate needs and long-term systemic change, frequently supporting projects that center leadership from impacted communities. The application process is conducted entirely online and follows a two-step model: an Initial Application, and if invited, a Full Application. Applicants may submit a 2–3-minute video for the narrative portion of the Initial Application. Deadlines are aligned with two annual funding cycles. For Cycle 1, the Initial Application opens on November 1 and closes on January 15, with full applications due March 6 and awards announced in May. For Cycle 2, the Initial Application runs from May 1 to July 15, with full applications due September 4 and notifications in October. Proposals are reviewed by community panelists and board members. Applications are evaluated based on clearly defined goals, a strong design plan, and evidence of impact. The fund also encourages detailed assessments and inclusive practices in leadership, decision-making, and programming. All submissions must include a budget, and the fund may award a limited number of grants early after reviewing Initial Applications. The program is recurring, with deadlines and cycles repeating annually. The fund does not accept mailed applications and requires all submissions through its online portal. Questions regarding the process can be directed to Ti Wilhelm at twilhelm@theopportunityfund.org. The final report is due 30 days after the grant end date. Applicants are encouraged to apply early and review tutorials and FAQs available on the Opportunity Fund’s website.

Submit early; review tutorial; include clear impact metrics; leadership demographics and justice frameworks are central.