The Equality Fund

The Equality Fund is administered by the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation, a philanthropic organization committed to supporting nonprofit initiatives that enhance community wellbeing in the Greater Hartford region. Established in 2018 through a donor contribution, the fund focuses specifically on advancing the quality of life for LGBTQIA+ individuals by supporting organizations that address systemic inequities and promote inclusive, affirming environments. The foundation supplements this fund annually with a portion of its unrestricted grantmaking resources, reinforcing its commitment to equity-driven community development. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to provide operating support to organizations that directly serve or meaningfully engage LGBTQIA+ residents in the Greater Hartford area. The grant prioritizes initiatives that address disparities identified in a recent community wellbeing study conducted in partnership with DataHaven. This study highlighted key areas of need including healthcare access, housing stability, financial security, and social connectedness, particularly among individuals with intersecting identities such as race, ethnicity, age, and disability status. Funding is intended to support general operating expenses over a one-year period. Organizations may request up to 50000 dollars, and the foundation expects to distribute approximately 200000 dollars in total funding across multiple grantees. Allowable uses include programs that provide direct services, advocacy, education, or resource access to LGBTQIA+ populations. Priority will be given to initiatives that support queer youth, expand access to affirming healthcare, create safe community spaces, advocate for inclusive policies, and address housing and harm reduction needs. There are no stated matching requirements for this funding. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit organizations that either explicitly serve the LGBTQIA+ community or demonstrate a strong track record of providing trusted and affirming services to this population. Organizations must serve the Greater Hartford region, defined as a 29-town catchment area, though entities located outside the region may apply if their programming directly benefits residents within it. Applicants must meet standard foundation criteria, including having a governing board and appropriate nonprofit status, though fiscal sponsorship is permitted for non-501c3 groups. Organizations currently receiving certain core support grants during the funding period are not eligible. The application process requires submission through an online portal, where applicants must complete all required questions and upload supporting materials such as a strategic plan or work plan. Proposals must clearly articulate organizational alignment with LGBTQIA+ community needs and demonstrate how programs address intersectional identities. Applicants are limited to one submission and are encouraged to plan ahead to avoid technical issues. All required components must be completed by the stated deadline to be considered. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the fund’s priorities, demonstrated impact, and feasibility of proposed outcomes. Successful applicants will be required to define measurable outcomes and submit a final report after one year detailing progress. Foundation staff are available to provide guidance on outcome development. Questions regarding eligibility and program details can be directed to a designated community impact officer, while technical questions should be sent to the grants administration team. The timeline for this opportunity begins with the release of the request for proposals on April 1, 2026. Applications are due by May 13, 2026 at 1159 pm Eastern Time. Award notifications are expected in mid-June 2026, with grant funding covering a one-year performance period thereafter. This opportunity appears to be part of an annual funding cycle, though future dates are not explicitly confirmed. Organizations should monitor for recurring opportunities aligned with this timeline.

Align proposal with LGBTQIA+ wellbeing study priorities and clearly demonstrate measurable outcomes and community impact