Keith Haring Foundation Grant Program

The Keith Haring Foundation was established in 1989 by American artist Keith Haring with the purpose of supporting nonprofit organizations that serve vulnerable populations, particularly young people and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. The Foundation reflects Haring’s legacy of social activism, emphasizing equity in healthcare, education, and economic opportunity. Its grantmaking is focused on addressing systemic disparities and supporting organizations that demonstrate both need and measurable impact through sustainable programming. The Foundation funds initiatives in three primary areas: youth development, HIV/AIDS services, and arts and culture. Youth-focused programs must serve vulnerable populations in New York City and emphasize long-term mentorship and pathways to self-sufficiency. HIV/AIDS-related funding prioritizes organizations serving residents in New York City and the Southeastern United States, especially those at high risk or experiencing poor health outcomes. Arts and culture grants are directed toward institutions that promote education and public understanding of Keith Haring’s work, particularly in connection with social activism and historical context. Funding is restricted to nonprofit organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation does not provide funding to individuals and prioritizes direct service delivery programs over events, conferences, publications, or research. Requests for funding that could be covered by government sources are not considered, and retroactive funding is not permitted. First-time applicants must demonstrate that their program has been in operation for at least three years and provide strong outcome data supporting program effectiveness. The application process is conducted entirely through the Foundation’s online grants portal. Applicants must first register as individuals, even when applying on behalf of an organization. Registration is required before submission of a Letter of Inquiry (LOI), and each individual applicant must maintain their own account credentials. The LOI is the initial required submission and must be completed in full through the portal. Additional materials are not accepted at this stage. Applications that align with the Foundation’s mission and funding priorities may be invited to submit a Full Application. The Full Application expands on the LOI and includes more detailed programmatic and organizational information. Both the LOI and Full Application can be saved and edited until submission, but cannot be modified afterward. Applicants are encouraged to begin submissions early to avoid technical or timing issues. For the current cycle, new applicant registrations must be completed by June 21, 2026, followed by the LOI submission deadline of June 28, 2026. Full Applications, by invitation only, are due July 26, 2026. Applications are reviewed in November 2026, and funding decisions are communicated in December 2026. Proposed projects must begin on or after January 1, 2027. The Foundation conducts multiple registration cycles per year, indicating a recurring funding opportunity structure.

Ensure strong alignment with youth, HIV/AIDS, or arts priorities; provide measurable outcomes and evidence-based impact; submit early to avoid delays