Asian Community Fund Grant

The Asian Community Fund at the Boston Foundation is a philanthropic initiative established in 2020 to support and strengthen the Asian American and Pacific Islander community across Massachusetts. As the first fund of its kind in the state, it was created to convene stakeholders, build partnerships, and elevate the visibility and influence of AAPI-serving organizations. The fund operates as a permanent resource dedicated to addressing systemic inequities while fostering long-term community resilience and advocacy capacity. The purpose of this grant opportunity is to catalyze collaboration and expand the operational capacity of nonprofit organizations that serve AAPI communities in Massachusetts. The funding cycle emphasizes proposals that move beyond one-time events and instead demonstrate sustainable, community-wide impact. The 2026 funding priorities are guided by the theme of Survival, Solidarity, and Stability, focusing on urgent needs such as legal advocacy, food security, economic opportunity, and overall community well-being and belonging. Funding is intended primarily for general operating support, although project-based activities may also be considered if they align with the broader mission. Allowable uses include activities that strengthen organizational infrastructure, support service delivery, and foster cross-sector collaboration. However, several restrictions apply: funds may not be used for event sponsorships, capital campaigns, construction, endowments, medical or academic research, religious activities, political campaigns, or individual hardship assistance. These restrictions ensure that resources are directed toward sustainable, community-level impact rather than isolated or ineligible activities. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status that are based in Massachusetts or have a qualifying fiscal sponsor with such status. While organizations of all sizes may apply, priority is given to those with annual operating budgets under $500,000 and those serving underrepresented AAPI subgroups or geographic areas. Organizations that have not previously received funding from the fund are also prioritized, and repeat funding is generally limited to three consecutive years followed by a required pause year. The application process requires applicants to access the Boston Foundation’s grants portal, either by resetting an existing account or creating a new one. Applicants must complete the online application and upload an organizational operating budget. The process is designed to be completed on a computer rather than a mobile device, and applicants are encouraged to begin early to avoid technical issues. While specific application questions are not detailed, required components include organizational information, program alignment, and financial documentation. Applications open on April 1, 2026 and close on April 24, 2026 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time. There are no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent. Funding decisions are expected to be communicated by June 2026. Selected grantees may be asked to provide updates on fund usage and participate in follow-up engagement such as surveys or phone interviews during the grant period. While the performance period is not explicitly stated, the reporting expectations suggest an active grant cycle within the same calendar year. This grant program appears to operate on an annual cycle, with consistent thematic priorities and structured timelines. Its emphasis on collaboration, sustainability, and equitable resource distribution reflects a broader commitment to strengthening the long-term capacity of AAPI-serving organizations in Massachusetts. For questions, applicants may contact Danielle Kim via email, indicating a direct point of contact for technical or programmatic inquiries.

Emphasize alignment with Survival Solidarity and Stability themes; demonstrate collaboration and long-term impact beyond single events; highlight service to underrepresented AAPI communities