Diversity Equity and Inclusion Grants

The City of Frederick's Department of Economic Development has launched a new grant opportunity called “ACCESS GRANTED.” This initiative is designed to support small minority and women-owned businesses, both start-up and established, by providing access to capital for specific projects aimed at scaling their operations. The program aligns with the city's mission to foster a supportive and inclusive business environment, enabling entrepreneurs to achieve their full potential. The primary beneficiaries of the "ACCESS GRANTED" program are small minority and women-owned businesses within The City of Frederick limits. The impact goal is to empower these businesses by providing financial assistance that will facilitate their growth and development. This initiative aims to address the challenges these businesses face in accessing capital, thereby contributing to a more equitable and robust local economy. The program prioritizes small minority and/or women-owned businesses that are physically located within The City of Frederick limits. Eligibility criteria include being a registered for-profit business, being in good standing in the state of Maryland, and having no more than 25 full-time equivalent employees. These criteria ensure that the funding reaches businesses that are genuinely in need of support and are poised for growth within the city. The City of Frederick has earmarked $400,000 for this program, with individual grant sizes ranging from $100,000 to $500,000. The expected outcome is a tangible increase in the capacity and scalability of participating businesses, leading to job creation, economic growth, and enhanced community vibrancy. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the financial allocation, the program's success will likely be evaluated by the number of businesses supported, the scale of projects undertaken, and the overall economic impact on the community.

This program provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and community groups in Santa Barbara to enhance arts access, strengthen cultural programming, and promote community engagement through various projects and events.

The City of Augusta allocates funding to the Greater Augusta Arts Council (GAAC) to distribute to the non-profit arts community through the FY25 Annual City Arts Grant Program. This program aligns with the city's mission to sustain a wide variety of artistic disciplines and expressions, recognizing the importance of public financial support for the arts. The GAAC acts as the primary donor, ensuring that funds reach eligible non-profit arts organizations within Richmond County, Georgia. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are non-profit organizations dedicated to the performance, exhibition, and/or presentation of arts and cultural programming within the Augusta-Richmond County community. These organizations must have a mission statement reflecting their focus on arts and culture, be a 501(c)3 non-profit for at least one year, and have a physical headquarters in Richmond County. The program's impact goals are multifaceted: to provide programming and educational opportunities, promote Metro Augusta as a cultural destination, build the capacity and stability of Augusta's arts organizations, and enhance the city's economic development through the arts. For fiscal year 2025, the program prioritizes funding for General Operating Expenses, with up to $7,000 available, and specific Art Projects, with up to $5,000 available. This dual approach allows for both the sustained operation of arts organizations and the execution of distinct artistic endeavors. Organizations are expected to demonstrate excellence in programming, provide accessible programs to the general public, consider the community's diversity, and articulate strategies for inclusiveness in their operations and programming. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant arts and cultural scene in Augusta-Richmond County, increased engagement from diverse community members, and a stronger economic impact derived from the arts. Measurable results would likely involve tracking the number of programs offered, audience attendance, the reach of educational opportunities, and the economic contributions of funded projects. The GAAC's strategic priority, in alignment with the City of Augusta, is to foster a thriving arts community that enriches the lives of its citizens and enhances the city's overall cultural and economic landscape. The theory of change suggests that by providing financial support to qualified arts organizations, the city can achieve these broad community and economic development objectives.

The Community Foundation of Grand Forks' Women’s Fund Grant Program aligns directly with the foundation's mission to empower girls and women by providing ideas, energy, and resources to achieve economic, social, and political equity. This grant program is designed to support initiatives that address the challenges and concerns facing girls and women today, while also fostering their leadership skills and confidence. The foundation strategically uses this program to encourage philanthropy among women, reinforcing a cycle of support within the community. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are girls and women within Grand Forks, Walsh, and Polk Counties. The program's impact goals are centered on creating opportunities that build leadership skills and confidence, raising awareness of critical issues, and promoting gender equity. By supporting a diverse range of projects, the Women's Fund aims to generate tangible improvements in the lives of girls and women, contributing to a more equitable society. The program prioritizes initiatives that build leadership skills and confidence among girls and women, support opportunities, and encourage women to become philanthropists. While not explicitly detailed, the foundation's theory of change appears to be rooted in the belief that by investing in these key areas, they can create a ripple effect that leads to broader societal change and improved outcomes for women. Grants are typically awarded in the $5,000 range, indicating a focus on impactful, yet often localized, projects. Expected outcomes include increased awareness of issues facing girls and women, enhanced leadership capabilities, and greater participation in philanthropic activities. While specific measurable results are not explicitly stated, the program implicitly aims for improvements in economic, social, and political equity for its target demographic. The grant duration of one year, with a grant period of October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025, suggests a focus on projects with clear, achievable objectives within a defined timeframe. The foundation's strategic priorities for this fund include supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, fiscally sponsored nonprofits, public entities like libraries or schools, or units of government with principal operations in the specified counties. They also emphasize fiscal responsibility and timely reporting from previous grant recipients. This ensures that funds are directed to well-managed organizations capable of effectively implementing programs that align with the Women's Fund's vision.

The **Mardag Foundation** is now accepting applications for its **2024 Grant Program**, supporting organizations that promote equity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for Minnesotans. Rooted in collaboration and racial equity, the foundation’s approach emphasizes community-informed work that empowers marginalized populations and fosters lasting, inclusive change. Grant funding is available to organizations serving residents in **Greater Minnesota** and the **East Metro counties of Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington**. The foundation’s giving focuses on three primary areas. The first is **improving the lives of low-income children, youth, and families** who face barriers to opportunity. Priority is given to organizations serving marginalized communities—especially Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC)—and addressing intersections of education, mental health, basic needs, employment pathways, healthcare access, and housing stability. Projects that eliminate inequities and expand equitable opportunities for youth and families are especially encouraged to apply. The second focus area supports **older adults who face isolation, financial hardship, or barriers to full participation in community life**. Funding will prioritize organizations serving low-income older Minnesotans, particularly those who are also members of marginalized groups such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, or people with disabilities. Grants may support efforts to meet basic needs, improve caregiving quality, promote mental health, reduce isolation, and enable aging in place through stable and safe housing. The foundation also welcomes programs fostering **intergenerational connections**, which enrich both older adults and younger participants through shared experiences. The third priority is **strengthening community vitality through arts and culture**. The Mardag Foundation believes that the arts play a vital role in honoring diverse cultures and fostering shared understanding. Funding will support arts and culture organizations that elevate underrepresented voices and amplify the creative contributions of BIPOC, low-income, disabled, and LGBTQIA+ communities. Through these efforts, the foundation aims to build stronger, more connected, and culturally vibrant communities across Minnesota. The foundation offers two types of grants: **General Operating Support** and **Capital Project grants**. General operating grants provide flexible funding to nonprofits that serve at least 50% of their beneficiaries in the East Metro or Greater Minnesota. Capital grants support facility improvements or equipment purchases for projects based in these same regions, typically distributed over multiple years. Eligible applicants include **501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies, and religious organizations**. Preference is given to entities whose work is led or informed by the people most affected by the issues they address. The Mardag Foundation does not fund organizations using fiscal sponsors, those exclusively serving Minneapolis or the West Metro, scholarships, sectarian programs, or large-scale capital campaigns for private schools or universities. By focusing its support on community-led efforts that address inequality and strengthen social infrastructure, the foundation continues its mission of advancing opportunity, dignity, and well-being for all Minnesotans—especially those facing the greatest barriers to success.

The 2025 Sharing Prince George Grants, announced by The Greater Washington Community Foundation, aim to support high-impact nonprofits serving Prince George’s County’s most vulnerable residents. This initiative aligns with the Community Foundation’s broader 10-year strategic plan, which is centered on addressing urgent community needs, advancing economic justice, and ultimately closing the racial/ethnic wealth gap. The fund prides itself on supporting organizations that have effectively responded to community needs, working in partnership toward a shared vision for a more equitable, just, and thriving Prince George’s County, directly reflecting the foundation's mission. The target beneficiaries are the low-income and most vulnerable residents of Prince George’s County. The grant program seeks to achieve significant impact by enabling people to chart pathways out of poverty and empowering them with the financial and social capital needed to build wealth. The ultimate goal is to enhance the health and stability of the entire community by mitigating the effects of the racial/ethnic wealth gap, fostering economic justice, and ensuring basic needs are met. The grant-making priorities for this year are threefold. First, economic mobility resources are prioritized, including access to higher education, training, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. Second, the program focuses on individual and community wealth-building opportunities to help residents weather crises and pursue their dreams. Third, basic needs for low-income neighbors are addressed, encompassing access to health and mental health resources, food security, affordable housing, childcare, education, and interventions that facilitate a transition from crisis to recovery. For the FY25 cycle, Sharing Prince George’s will award up to ten one-time grants, each up to $50,000. These grants provide flexible general operating support, allowing nonprofits to allocate resources where they are most needed to advance their missions within Prince George’s County. Regional organizations receiving grants will have their funds specifically earmarked for efforts within the county, ensuring the direct impact on the intended beneficiaries and contributing to the foundation's strategic objective of fostering a more equitable and stable community.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit and community-based organizations in Schenectady County that aim to revitalize neighborhoods and create safe, engaged communities through impactful projects.

The City of Lawrence's Affordable Housing Trust Fund is accepting applications to provide and improve the quality, availability, and affordability of housing in Lawrence. This initiative aligns with the mission of the Affordable Housing Advisory Board (AHAB) to ensure everyone in Lawrence has access to safe, quality, affordable housing and supportive services for independent living with dignity. The fund is supported by a local sales tax, demonstrating a community-wide commitment to addressing housing needs. The primary target beneficiaries are low-to-moderate income households and residents within the City of Lawrence city limits. The impact goals include increasing the supply of affordable housing, preserving existing affordable housing stock, and enhancing accessibility. Additionally, the program aims to provide housing vouchers for low-income households, increase community awareness on affordable housing issues, and advance racial equity in housing. The program prioritizes several key areas, including affordable housing or land acquisition, new affordable housing development, and rehabilitation of existing affordable housing for preservation. It also focuses on accessibility modifications for households with specific needs to maintain affordable and accessible housing, as well as projects that specifically advance racial equity in housing. Investing in private/public partnerships for the provision of affordable housing is also a central focus. The City of Lawrence anticipates awarding up to $1.2 million in Affordable Housing Trust Funds. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the number of affordable housing units, improved quality of existing affordable housing, and greater accessibility for those with specific needs. The program also aims to reduce housing insecurity through vouchers and foster a more equitable housing landscape within Lawrence, with success measured by the number of projects funded and the households served.

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) solicitation is a grant program designed to support the effective utilization of DNA technology in state and local crime laboratories. This initiative operates under the umbrella of the Office of Justice Programs (OJP), the largest grantmaking component of the Department of Justice. The program's foundation is aligned with OJP's mission to advance work that promotes civil rights, increases access to justice, strengthens community safety, protects the public from crime and evolving threats, and builds trust between law enforcement and the community. By funding DNA analysis capabilities, the grant directly contributes to OJP and BJA's overall goal of providing federal leadership and resources to combat violent crime and enhance the nation's criminal justice system. The target beneficiaries for this funding are states and units of local government that possess existing crime laboratories capable of conducting DNA analysis. These recipients utilize the federal support to solve crimes and protect public safety. The overarching impact goals are to combat violent crime, support crime victims, resolve existing cases, and enhance the overall administration of justice within their jurisdictions. Related BJA programs, like the Comprehensive Forensic DNA Analysis Grant Program, further demonstrate this commitment by including various governmental entities, such as special district and city governments, as well as Native American tribal organizations, to broaden the reach of forensic science improvements. The primary focus of this grant is maximizing the effective utilization of DNA technology to process DNA samples for entry into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). This is achieved through BJA's forensic science programs, such as the DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) program and the National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI). These programs are specifically prioritized to increase the capacity of public forensic laboratories, reduce the backlog of DNA evidence, and improve the timeliness of testing. This focus ensures that DNA evidence from crimes is analyzed and entered into the national database as quickly and efficiently as possible. The expected outcomes are centered on increasing the operational efficiency and effectiveness of forensic science in the justice system. The measurable results include a direct increase in the number of CODIS-eligible samples analyzed and a reduction in DNA testing turnaround times. These efforts have demonstrated success in practice, with BJA-funded programs contributing to a substantial percentage of all CODIS hits, resulting in the identification of previously unknown suspects and providing critical evidence for the prosecution of criminal cases. This grant is part of the Office of Justice Programs' strategic priority to uphold the rule of law, keep the country safe, and protect civil rights by supporting law enforcement and justice practitioners. OJP's theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial resources and technical assistance, and by focusing on evidence-based, "smart on crime" approaches, they can enhance the capacity and effectiveness of state, local, and tribal justice systems. Investing in DNA processing and CODIS entry, therefore, is a key strategy for leveraging technology to increase the certainty of identification, improve public safety, and ensure a more fair and effective administration of justice.

ACCESS GRANTED is a grant initiative aimed at supporting and empowering small minority and/or women-owned businesses in Frederick, Maryland. The program targets both start-ups and established businesses needing capital for specific projects that will promote business growth. The City of Frederick has allocated $400,000 for these grants, as part of the American Rescue Plan Act's State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (ARPA-SLFRF). Eligible businesses can apply for up to $40,000 to cover project costs such as equipment, renovations, inventory, professional services, marketing, and more. The goal is to enhance revenue, profitability, and business opportunities without replacing lost revenues. The application process for ACCESS GRANTED opens on July 15, 2024, and closes on August 12, 2024. Applications will be reviewed competitively, with awards distributed by early fall 2024. To be eligible, businesses must be registered for-profit entities in Maryland, in good standing, and have no more than 25 full-time equivalent employees. Preferences will be given to minority and women-owned businesses located within The City of Frederick. Award recipients must submit interim and final reports on the project's impact.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and government units in Southwest Florida that support programs improving the well-being and mental health of underprivileged youth aged 8 to 25.

The Research Foundation offers community grants to support programs and organizations that align with its mission of expanding access to care, promoting health equity, and engaging students in health care careers. These grants are awarded to tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations that primarily serve residents of Jackson County, Missouri, with a particular focus on urban Kansas City. The foundation does not support 509(a)(3) organizations or those with pending 501(c)(3) status. The grants are specifically targeted towards programs that address the identified priorities: Expanding Access to Care, Promoting Health Equity, and Engaging Students in Health Care Careers. The foundation's strategic approach is to fund initiatives that directly contribute to these areas, aiming to improve health outcomes and opportunities for the community it serves. Support is considered for any program that aligns with these stated priorities. Applicants are permitted to request 10% in indirect costs to help cover overhead expenses associated with program delivery. Furthermore, nonprofit organizations with health-centric missions, where more than half of their program offerings align with The Research Foundation’s priorities, are eligible to apply for general operating support. This flexibility allows organizations to allocate funds effectively to achieve their program goals. The expected outcomes of these grants are to create measurable positive impacts within Jackson County, Missouri, specifically in urban Kansas City. By supporting programs that expand access to care and promote health equity, the foundation aims to reduce disparities and improve overall community health. Engaging students in health care careers is intended to build a stronger, more diverse healthcare workforce for the future, thereby ensuring long-term access to quality care. The deadline for applications is August 15, 2024.

This grant provides funding to municipalities and local governments in Illinois for community-based holiday lighting events that celebrate cultural identity and foster community engagement.

The Ingram-White Castle Foundation offers grants to combat hunger for knowledge, independence, and self-sufficiency in central Ohio. The Foundation's mission centers on empowering young people towards self-improvement and full participation in society, aligning its grant programs with values of physical, educational, emotional, and spiritual nourishment. This approach reflects a strategic priority of transforming lives through knowledge and enabling youth to realize their full potential, rooted in a theory of change that fostering self-sufficiency leads to a more engaged and empowered community. The target beneficiaries are primarily disadvantaged students and central Ohio nonprofit organizations serving them, as well as those addressing critical human service needs. The Foundation's impact goals include enhancing academic success for students, preparing them for the workforce, and strengthening educational institutions. By investing in these areas, the Foundation aims to yield substantial community benefits and promote cooperation among agencies, thereby addressing the core needs of those yearning for a better life. The Foundation prioritizes projects that encourage matching gifts or additional funding from other donors, demonstrate significant community benefit for the resources invested, and promote inter-agency cooperation without duplicating services. While the grant duration is generally one year, the emphasis is on sustainable impact and empowering individuals to help themselves. The Foundation generally avoids grants for religious purposes, budget deficits, conferences, or projects typically covered by public agencies, reinforcing its focus on targeted, impactful interventions within its defined scope. The expected outcomes include improved academic performance for disadvantaged students, enhanced workforce readiness, and stronger educational infrastructures. Measurable results would likely stem from the success of programs that align with these goals, demonstrating progress in areas like student achievement, employment rates among beneficiaries, and the overall capacity of supported educational and human service institutions. The Foundation's strategic priorities are deeply invested in the belief that providing a "helping hand to those who currently cannot help themselves" ultimately benefits all, and that stewardship in investment leads to significant and lasting impact for those seeking a better life.

The City of Newark's Love Your Block (LYB) Mini-Grants Program is a community-driven initiative aimed at fostering neighborhood beautification and community building through collaborative projects between residents, city departments, and local organizations. This program aligns with a broader mission of empowering residents to actively shape their communities, promoting a sense of ownership and pride, and ultimately creating cleaner, greener, and healthier neighborhoods. The underlying theory of change suggests that by providing accessible funding and technical support, resident-led initiatives will lead to tangible improvements and stronger community ties. The primary beneficiaries of this program are individuals, resident groups, and community organizations within the City of Newark who are passionate about enhancing their local environments. The program's impact goals are centered on reducing litter, improving waste management, revitalizing underutilized properties, and enhancing green spaces. By engaging residents directly in these efforts, the program aims to cultivate a more vibrant and engaged citizenry, leading to sustainable community improvements and a better quality of life for all residents. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly delineated into three grant categories: Community clean-ups, Minor exterior home repairs & curb appeal, and Enhancing Green Spaces and Activating Vacant Lots. These categories reflect the city's strategic priorities in addressing key challenges such as litter, property blight, and underutilized public spaces. The emphasis on these areas is designed to produce visible and impactful results that resonate with residents' everyday experiences and contribute to the overall aesthetic and environmental health of the city. Expected outcomes include a noticeable reduction in litter and an improvement in recycling efforts, the repurposing of dormant or underutilized properties, and the enhancement of community advantages around parks and open areas. Measurable results will likely be observed through the number of successful clean-up events, the completion of home repair and curb appeal projects, and the transformation of vacant lots into valuable community assets. The program's reimbursement-based funding of up to $5,000 per project, coupled with targeted technical assistance, is designed to ensure that these initiatives are achievable and produce meaningful, lasting change within the designated project period of September 2024 to November 15, 2024.

This grant provides financial support to arts and cultural organizations, individual artists, and local schools in Rowan County to enhance access to arts and cultural opportunities.

This program provides funding to public entities, nonprofit organizations, and small businesses in Orange County, North Carolina, to implement innovative projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate resilience for local communities.

Grantees will be asked to focus on prevention and early intervention efforts with the end goal of increasing access to mental health services for veterans and their families.  Proposals funded under CVHI must be inclusive, equitable, and available to all veterans regardless of age, period of service, type of service, discharge status, or disability rating. Applicants must be able to meet the eligibility requirements of California Military and Veterans Code Section 881 to be considered for funding, and proposals must aim to expand the state’s capacity to provide mental health support to veterans and to fill gaps in mental health services. Applicants are required to select the program areas they are proposing and provide a description of the proposed activities and how the proposed activities would increase mental health access for California veterans. This NOFA allows for flexibility in program design to fit the specific needs of veterans and their families across the state, Outreach, Peer Support, Case Management, Outpatient Clinical Treatment, and Innovative Approaches will be eligible for funding and are further defined in the NOFA. The Grantee staff and leadership will be expected to maintain significant engagement with CalVet for monthly check-ins, operations assistance, reporting, and evaluation. Applicants are encouraged to ensure they are budgeting for appropriate levels of staff, time for data collection and reporting, time spent in CVHI meetings and trainings, and appropriate facility requirements (office space, group space, hardware and software equipment, supplies, overhead). Through an Application process responsive to the NOFA, awarded Grantees will provide clear and convincing evidence of adequate personnel, facility, and organizational capacity to effectively carry out their proposed project. The successful Applicant will describe how they meet minimum qualifications, including their breadth of experience working with Veterans, with special emphasis on treating veterans with mental health concerns. 

This initiative provides $10,000 grants to over 100 LGBTQ small businesses in the U.S. that are owned by and serve LGBTQ people of color, women, and the transgender community, particularly those facing financial challenges due to COVID-19.

This program provides financial support and mentorship to early-stage beauty founders from underrepresented communities in the U.S. to help them grow and scale their innovative beauty brands.