Social Advocacy Grants

The Nexus Grant, offered by the City of Austin, is designed to support new and emerging local small organizations, individual artists, and small arts businesses in producing creative public projects. With an award of $5,000, the program aims to nurture the creative community by funding activities that enrich the city and its tourists through community-centered arts and collaboration. This aligns with a broader mission to foster cultural vibrancy and accessibility within Austin. The primary beneficiaries of the Nexus Grant are new and emerging applicants within the creative community, including artists, culturally specific groups, LGBTQIA and disability communities, nonprofits, and social advocacy organizations. The program's impact goals are centered on supporting creative public activities, encouraging community engagement, and promoting cultural collaboration. Through these efforts, the grant seeks to strengthen Austin's artistic landscape and provide diverse cultural experiences for both residents and visitors. The program prioritizes applicants who represent, serve, and are accountable to communities at immediate risk of cultural erasure and displacement within Austin, and those that have been historically marginalized and under-funded by the City of Austin Cultural Arts Division. This includes communities such as Black/African American, Native American, Asian, Hispanic/Latino, Middle Eastern, Pacific Islander, LGBTQIA+, and disability communities. Additionally, priority is given to applicants who have not received City of Austin Cultural Funding awards in the last five years, emphasizing support for truly emerging entities. Eligible activities for funding include exhibitions, performances, workshops with a performance or exhibition component, and public art projects accessible to the public. Grant funds can cover various expenses such as administrative and artist payments, space and equipment rentals, supplies, marketing, insurance, and fiscal sponsor fees. The expected outcomes are the successful production of these creative public projects, increased community engagement in the arts, and the empowerment of underrepresented voices within Austin's cultural sector. Measurable results would include the number and type of projects produced, audience reach, and the diversity of communities served, contributing to the city's strategic priorities of cultural equity and inclusion.

The California State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD) is offering Cycle 47 of its Program Development Grants (PDG) to support innovative programs and best practices throughout California. The SCDD's mission is to advocate for, promote, and implement policies and practices that achieve self-determination, independence, productivity, and inclusion for Californians with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. This grant program directly aligns with the SCDD's overarching goal to improve the lives of people with I/DD by engaging in and promoting self-advocacy, capacity-building, and systems change. The target beneficiaries of these grants are individuals with intellectual, developmental, and/or cross-disabilities, as well as their families. The grants aim to create measurable improvements in their lives. The SCDD seeks to award funding to California-based agencies and organizations that represent and/or serve these individuals, including local government agencies, non-government organizations, tribal organizations, community-based non-profits, and established 501(c)(3) tax-exempt coalitions. The SCDD's 2022-2026 State Plan outlines three key strategic priorities and focuses: Self-Advocacy, Systems Change/Advocacy, and Capacity-Building/Advocacy. For Self-Advocacy, the goal by 2026 is to maintain and/or increase the number of people with I/DD who become strong self-advocates, peer trainers, and community leaders. The Systems Change/Advocacy priority aims for the Council, in partnership with family/self-advocates, to lead in protecting and enhancing civil rights to improve community-based systems, making them more inclusive and supportive of people with I/DD and their families. For Capacity-Building/Advocacy, the Council plans to increase partnerships with and support of more people with I/DD and their families by 2026, ensuring they understand their rights and can advocate for and receive necessary supports and services. The expected outcomes and measurable results are directly tied to these State Plan goals. Through the PDG, the SCDD anticipates fostering programs that will lead to more empowered self-advocates, more inclusive community systems, and a greater understanding of rights and access to services for people with I/DD and their families. The Council has allocated a total fund of $300,000 for one or more Cycle 47 grants, with a grant period from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. This funding supports the SCDD's theory of change, which posits that by investing in community-based organizations that research, develop, and/or implement innovative programs, they can achieve their state plan objectives and significantly enhance the quality of life for Californians with I/DD.

The Administration of Justice Grants Program, funded by the Michigan State Bar Foundation (MSBF), is dedicated to fostering innovative projects that enhance the understanding and functionality of the American Justice system within Michigan. This program aligns directly with the MSBF's mission to support the administration of justice, by promoting legal education and conflict resolution. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its focus on initiatives that demonstrate innovative approaches, benefit Michigan residents, and exhibit potential for independent financial and programmatic continuity. The underlying theory of change appears to be that by educating citizens and supporting legal aid, there will be an improved administration of justice and greater access to legal services for all. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are Michigan children and adults, with an emphasis on educating them about their legal rights and responsibilities. Beyond education, the program also aims to create opportunities for conflict and dispute resolution and support civil legal aid for the poor. The impact goals are to increase public understanding of the legal system, reduce conflict through resolution methods, and ensure access to justice, particularly for underserved populations. The program prioritizes proposals that demonstrate innovative approaches, benefit Michigan residents, and have the potential for sustained impact. Key focuses include projects that show community support, collaboration, and partnerships, avoiding duplication of services, and leveraging multiple funding sources. The MSBF also looks for proposals that have potential for replication across the state and include meaningful evaluation components. Expected outcomes include a more informed citizenry regarding legal matters, increased utilization of conflict resolution mechanisms, and enhanced access to civil legal aid for low-income individuals. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in terms of quantifiable targets, the criteria for grant proposals suggest that projects should include a meaningful evaluation component, indicating an expectation of demonstrable progress and accountability. The average size of recent grants ($12,000-$15,000) also suggests a focus on projects that can achieve significant impact with moderate funding.

The Asian Community Fund (ACF) at The Boston Foundation is offering grants for its 2024 cycle to organizations and/or projects that primarily serve the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community in Massachusetts. This initiative directly aligns with the foundation's mission to develop, strengthen, and support AAPI community power, galvanize diverse ethnicities within this community, and build a stronger advocacy voice. The ACF's overarching goal is to advocate for equal access for AAPI individuals in all aspects of society and to collaborate with other communities of color and oppressed communities to overcome injustice and racism. The grantmaking approach is rooted in strengthening the broader AAPI community ecosystem across Massachusetts and advancing policy and systems change, reflecting the foundation's strategic priority to foster systemic impact. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations based in Massachusetts, or those with a qualifying fiscal agent, that primarily serve the AAPI community. The impact goals are multi-faceted, focusing on catalyzing new partnerships, expanding the capacity of local AAPI nonprofit and business sectors, and responding to emerging community needs. Expected outcomes include increased AAPI visibility, belonging, and narrative change through convening activities, innovative solutions to systemic gaps facing AAPI residents, and expanded reach and impact of programs that advance policy and systems change. Organizations will be evaluated based on their mission, impact, and alignment to ACF’s goals of strengthening the AAPI community ecosystem and advancing systems change. The program prioritizes several key areas of focus. These include supporting general operating costs for eligible organizations and projects. Funding will specifically support three types of work: Convening, which brings communities together to elevate AAPI visibility and foster solidarity; Catalyzing, which fuels new collaborations and innovations to address systemic gaps; and Capacity Building, which expands the reach of programs focused on policy and systems change. Priority will also be given to organizations serving underrepresented AAPI ethnicities and geographical regions, those not previously funded by ACF/TBF, and grassroots community organizations. This targeted approach demonstrates the foundation's strategic commitment to equitable distribution of resources and empowerment of diverse AAPI segments. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are evident in its emphasis on strengthening the AAPI community ecosystem and driving policy and systems change. The ACF believes that by investing in convening, catalyzing, and capacity building initiatives, it can create a ripple effect, leading to increased community power, stronger advocacy, and ultimately, greater equity for AAPI residents in Massachusetts. The grants, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, are designed to support organizations in achieving these objectives. While the initial grant size was advertised as $10,000 to $100,000, the funding considerations specify a range of $5,000 to $15,000 for general operating support. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions in June 2024 and will be expected to share their experiences and impact in summer 2025, providing measurable results and demonstrating the effectiveness of the foundation's theory of change.

The Eisner Prize Fellowship is a new program designed to support leaders pioneering innovations in intergenerational connection. Since 2011, the Eisner Foundation has awarded the Eisner Prize to honor people and organizations doing exceptional intergenerational work across the country. In this next phase in the evolution of the Eisner Prize, The Eisner Foundation is providing financial resources, networking opportunities, and the prestige of the Eisner Prize to leaders with new ideas and perspectives that will propel the field forward. The Eisner Prize Fellows application is open to anyone working to innovate in the area of intergenerational connection – whether that be through research, programs, technology, or other efforts advancing the field. Young people, people of color, and those working with historically marginalized communities are particularly encouraged to apply. The application for the 2024-25 cycle is open from April 24 to May 22, and questions can be reviewed in advance here.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations that support individuals and families affected by rare diseases by improving mental health services, access to care, and health education.

The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving is offering a competitive grant opportunity aimed at increasing local civic participation and supporting community-wide social change for the benefit of residents in Greater Hartford. This initiative aligns with the Foundation's broader mission to foster a more engaged and equitable community by empowering residents and community groups. The grant seeks to fund efforts that can enhance civic trust, raise awareness of social issues, and promote allyship with marginalized communities, contributing to the Foundation's strategic goal of strengthening civic infrastructure and promoting social justice. Target beneficiaries for this grant include residents of Greater Hartford, particularly those in marginalized or underrepresented communities. The program specifically encourages efforts that lead to increased resident leadership on racial/social justice issues and greater civic education and issue awareness. The impact goals are centered around fostering a more civically engaged populace, leading to improved community well-being and addressing systemic issues such as housing, education, healthcare, the concerns of returning citizens, and issues affecting LGBTQIA+ persons. The priorities and focuses of this grant opportunity are multifaceted. It supports local civic participation efforts through activities like community meetings, forums, workshops, informational outreach campaigns, and volunteerism projects. It also complements the Community Organizing RFP by specifically looking to support change efforts led by people of color and/or individuals representing traditionally marginalized communities. This dual focus ensures that both broad civic engagement and targeted support for specific communities are addressed. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in civic participation, heightened awareness of social justice issues, and stronger allyship with marginalized communities. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on "potential to increase civic trust, increase social issue awareness and promote allyship" suggests that successful projects will demonstrate progress in these areas. The Foundation's theory of change appears to be rooted in the belief that by empowering residents and community groups, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, lasting positive social change can be achieved, leading to a more inclusive and just Greater Hartford.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces an open competition for organizations interested in submitting applications for an applied learning project. The projects overarching goal is for monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) approaches for democracy, human rights, and governance (DRG) programming that incorporate feedback and expertise from the communities and individuals impacted by DRG programming. DRLs goal is to build a portfolio of evidence to further identify democracy, human rights, and labor rights program strategies that are effective. The DRL Evaluation Innovation Fund is an initiative that integrating evidence into program design, implementation, and evaluation in foreign assistance.

The SHARE Foundation offers annual grants focusing on enhancing the health and well-being of individuals in Union County, Arkansas, and surrounding areas. Through these grants, the Foundation aims to address critical areas such as health, education, economy, and social and community well-being. Focus areas include mental health treatment, substance misuse prevention, job readiness, education advancement, and neighborhood improvements. Grants are available for operations, projects/programs, and capital improvements. Eligible applicants include public agencies and tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code, with a priority for those operating in or having a direct impact on Union County. The application deadline is October 15, annually. Grant renewed every year.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), Bureau of Special Education is inviting applications from Local Education Agencies (LEAs) and Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) to develop or expand experiential learning opportunities. The goal is to engage secondary and postsecondary students in learning about working with students with disabilities, aiming to inspire future special educators. These opportunities include structured activities, programs, or events guided by current educators. The grant aims to foster the establishment or expansion of such opportunities and increase interest in special education careers among secondary and postsecondary students.

This grant provides financial support to charitable organizations and local governments in the Clintonville area for projects that enhance health, education, and community development.

This grant provides funding for researchers to investigate the causes and effects of social, political, and economic inequalities in the United States, focusing on how these disparities impact various outcomes for individuals and communities.

This grant provides funding for researchers to investigate the causes and effects of social, political, and economic inequalities in the United States, focusing on how these disparities impact various outcomes for individuals and communities.

This program provides funding for independent researchers and public research institutions to conduct open-access studies on how the Internet can enhance human well-being, with a focus on real-world applications and ethical standards.

This grant provides funding for researchers investigating the causes and effects of social, political, and economic inequalities in the United States, focusing on various factors such as race, gender, and immigration status.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces an open competition for organizations interested in strengthening the labor rights, protections, and conditions of decent work for migrant domestic workers in Malaysia.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations that support vulnerable populations, including adults and youth with disabilities, foster youth, older adults, and veterans, helping them achieve self-sufficiency and personal development.

Ladies/Gentlemen: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is seeking applications for a cooperative agreement from qualified entities to implement the Promoting Human Rights in Armenia Activity. Eligibility for this award is not restricted; both qualified U.S. and non-US organizations are eligible to apply. USAID intends to make one award to the applicant who best meets the objectives of this funding opportunity based on the merit review criteria described in this NOFO subject to a risk assessment. Eligible parties interested in submitting an application are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of program sought, application submission requirements and selection process. Subject to the availability of funds, the total estimated amount for this five-year activity is $10,000,000. To be eligible for the award, the applicant must provide all information as required in this NOFO and meet eligibility standards in Section C of this NOFO. This funding opportunity is posted on www.grants.gov, and may be amended. It is the responsibility of the applicant to regularly check the website to ensure they have the latest information pertaining to this notice of funding opportunity and to ensure that the NOFO has been received from the internet in its entirety. USAID bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion process. If you have difficulty registering on www.grants.gov or accessing the NOFO, please contact the Grants.gov Helpdesk at 1-800-518-4726 or via email at support@grants.gov for technical assistance. USAID will not make an award to an applicant unless the applicant has complied with all applicable unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) requirements detailed in Section D. 6. (g) The registration process may take many weeks to complete. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to begin registration early in the process. Please send any questions to the points of contact identified in Section D. The deadline for questions is shown above. Responses to questions received prior to the deadline will be furnished to all potential applicants through an amendment to this notice posted to www.grants.gov. USAID currently anticipates doing only one round of Q However, interested applicants should feel free to submit additional questions to USAIDs POCs listed in Section D. If additional questions are received after amendment 1 is issued that merit answering, USAID may decide to do a second round of Q and issue a second amendment to this NOFO. Issuance of this notice of funding opportunity does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the Government nor does it commit the Government to pay for any costs incurred in preparation or submission of comments/suggestions or an application. Applications are submitted at the risk of the applicant. All preparation and submission costs are at the applicants expense.

Poynter Reporting Grants for Transgender Coverage Grant Amount: $10,000 to $15,000 (three grants available) Eligibility: Reporters planning projects on all platforms (online, radio, video, print). Must have attended or watched both Beat Academy Transgender Coverage webinars. If not attended, enroll in the course. Support: One-on-one coaching available as needed. Focus: Strong applications focus on concrete local examples of transgender issues. Focus can be personal, family, community, or state level. Emphasis on a crisp story pitch, clear reporting plan, and evidence of reporting skill. Projects should be completed by December 31, 2024. Application Details: Applications due by May 3, 2024. Winners announced in late May. For questions, email Jon Greenberg at beatacademy@poynter.org. Funding Source: Supported by the Gill Foundation.

This funding provides financial assistance to victims of violent crime and supports organizations that help these individuals by establishing small funds for immediate aid.