Private Employment Labor and Training Grants

The LGBTQ Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham has released its Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 2024 Grant Cycle, aiming to support organizations that strengthen the infrastructure of LGBTQ-led or serving groups, provide services to LGBTQ youth, individuals, and families, and offer educational opportunities highlighting the needs of the LGBTQ community. The fund also seeks to advance collaboration between LGBTQ organizations and other community groups, and support nonprofit partners working on public policy and social justice issues that intersect with LGBTQ concerns. The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham's mission to enhance the quality of life in the region aligns with the LGBTQ Fund's goals by fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all community members, particularly those from historically marginalized groups. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are LGBTQ persons, with a particular focus on underserved communities including people of color, youth, seniors, transgender individuals, gender non-binary persons, and those in rural areas. The impact goals are to improve the well-being and equity of these communities through various support systems. Expected outcomes include stronger LGBTQ organizations, increased access to vital services for LGBTQ individuals and families, greater public understanding and acceptance through education, and more effective advocacy for LGBTQ rights and social justice. Measurable results could include the number of organizations supported, the number of individuals served, the reach of educational programs, and the impact of policy initiatives. Priority will be given to proposals that specifically address the needs of demonstrably underserved LGBTQ communities, emphasizing an intersectional approach. This includes programs focusing on inclusive healthcare and mental health services, immigrant advocacy, racial and economic justice, and initiatives promoting faith and acceptance. The typical grant amounts range from $3,000 to $7,000, with the fund also considering general operating expenses if justified in the application. This strategic focus ensures that resources are directed towards areas with the most significant need and potential for transformative impact within the LGBTQ community in Central Alabama. Grants are awarded to non-profit organizations in Central Alabama, specifically in Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker counties, that either directly serve the LGBTQ community or are expanding existing programs to be inclusive and affirming of LGBTQ persons. Organizations not currently designated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit are encouraged to apply using a fiscal sponsor. This demonstrates the Foundation's strategic priority of building capacity within the non-profit sector and its theory of change, which posits that by empowering and funding organizations dedicated to LGBTQ issues, they can create a more equitable, supportive, and inclusive Central Alabama for all LGBTQ individuals.

The Women’s Foundation of Arkansas (WFA) is launching its fifth Women’s Economic Mobility Hub (WEM Hub) cohort, a program specifically designed to support Black women-owned businesses. This initiative aligns directly with the WFA's mission to advance economic mobility for women, particularly focusing on a demographic that often faces significant barriers to business growth. By providing a comprehensive suite of resources, the WEM Hub seeks to address systemic inequities and foster sustainable economic empowerment. The primary target beneficiaries of the WEM Hub program are existing businesses that are at least 75% owned and operated by one or more Black women who are U.S. citizens. These businesses must be physically located and operating for over one year within Arkansas, and be in good standing with the Arkansas Secretary of State and current on all taxes. The program specifically excludes not-for-profit entities, focusing instead on for-profit corporations, partnerships, LLPs, LLCs, or sole proprietorships. The core impact goal is to scale these Black women-owned businesses through robust support and unrestricted grant funding. The WEM Hub program prioritizes technical assistance, offering a six-month intensive program that combines online training and in-person meetings. Key areas of focus include expert advice on accounting, financial management, business development, and legal services. Participants also receive ongoing mentorship, engage in peer-to-peer learning sessions, and gain training in communications, public relations, marketing, and leadership skill development. A significant component is the opportunity to establish relationships with participating financial institutions, which is crucial for long-term growth and stability. Expected outcomes include enhanced business acumen, improved financial literacy, and stronger market presence for participating businesses. The program aims for measurable results through the provision of $5,000 in unrestricted grant funds to each business, directly contributing to their scaling efforts. The WFA's strategic priority is to create a tangible pathway for Black women entrepreneurs to not only survive but thrive, thereby reducing economic disparities and contributing to the overall economic health of Arkansas. The underlying theory of change is that by equipping Black women business owners with tailored support, financial resources, and networking opportunities, their businesses will experience accelerated growth, leading to increased economic mobility and wealth creation for the entrepreneurs and their communities.

Community Engagement Planning Grants in Massachusetts aim to provide support to community-based organizations, municipalities, and other entities to facilitate meaningful community input in the development and deployment of solar energy projects owned by electric and gas distribution companies. The program goals include enabling informed community engagement, providing flexible funding for stakeholder meetings and public participation incentives, building capacity for future collaboration in clean energy projects, creating a framework for robust future community engagement, and facilitating discussions with diverse stakeholders.

The Hudson-Ellis Fund, administered by the Blue Grass Community Foundation, is a competitive grantmaking program aimed at supporting tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations in Boyle County, Kentucky. This initiative aligns with the foundation's broader mission of fostering community well-being by channeling the generosity of donors, such as Lottie B. Ellis, into impactful local projects. The fund seeks to address critical community needs, with a particular emphasis on public education and enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable populations within Boyle County. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are youth and adults who are economically disadvantaged, as well as youth and adults with disabilities. The fund's impact goals center on improving the overall quality of life for these individuals through targeted projects and programs. Successful proposals are expected to demonstrate meaningful and sustainable change, directly addressing identified community needs and contributing to a more equitable and supportive environment in Boyle County. The Hudson-Ellis Fund has clear funding priorities. These include public education initiatives and programming specifically designed to benefit economically disadvantaged youth and adults, as well as those with disabilities. The foundation's strategic approach emphasizes community-led solutions that are both effective and long-lasting, reflecting a theory of change that believes in empowering local organizations to drive positive societal outcomes through well-conceived and executed projects. In terms of expected outcomes and measurable results, the fund looks for proposals that can articulate clear objectives and demonstrate how their activities will lead to tangible improvements. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on "meaningful impact and sustainability" suggests that applicants should be prepared to outline how they will track their progress and demonstrate the positive changes brought about by their programs. Grant requests should not exceed $7,500, with a grant period from September 2024 to June 2025, implying that outcomes should be achievable within this timeframe.

This funding opportunity supports community organizations in western North Carolina to enhance youth mental health and resilience through collaborative, youth-led initiatives, particularly in areas affected by economic distress and natural disasters.

The Bellevue Community Foundation Grant program is accepting applications to support programs serving the Bellevue Community. Established in 2007 as the Bellevue Community Fund in association with the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, its goal was to grow a pool of charitable dollars for the community. In 2020, it evolved into the Bellevue Community Foundation, committed to collaborating with like-minded civic organizations in Bellevue. This grant program aligns with the foundation's mission to foster community growth and support local initiatives. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are organizations located in the Bellevue area (37221 zip code). Specifically, eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities or entities of government such as libraries and departments. The program aims to create a positive impact by funding local programs, contributing to the overall well-being and development of the Bellevue community. The grant size ranges from $1000 to $10,000, with a maximum request of $5,000 for nonprofits, indicating a focus on supporting a variety of community-based projects. The foundation prioritizes and focuses on organizations that directly serve the Bellevue community. The grant period runs from December 1, 2024, to November 30, 2025, allowing for a full year of program implementation. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the underlying theory of change suggests that by providing funding to eligible local organizations, the foundation anticipates strengthening community services and improving the quality of life for Bellevue residents. In essence, the Bellevue Community Foundation's strategic priority is to build and sustain a vibrant Bellevue community through charitable giving and partnerships. By offering grants, they empower local organizations to address community needs, foster civic engagement, and contribute to the area's long-term prosperity. The program embodies a grassroots approach, where local support translates into tangible benefits for the community it serves.

The Scherman Foundation’s Core Fund for Reproductive Rights and Justice supports organizations working within a comprehensive reproductive justice framework that addresses the impact of race, class, gender, and sexual identity on women’s reproductive health and autonomy. The Foundation prioritizes funding for innovative national and state-based organizations using strategies such as base building, leadership development, public education, policy advocacy, voter engagement, and culture change. General operating support is emphasized for state-based and local organizations, while larger and policy-focused groups may receive project-specific support.

The United Way of the Wabash Valley is offering Successful Parenting Initiative Grants of $1,000 to $10,000 for projects that enhance parental knowledge of early childhood development and improve parenting practices, with a focus on early detection of developmental delays and increasing school readiness in children, open to nonprofits, for-profits, local government units, and faith-based and community organizations in specified counties of Indiana and Illinois.

The Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau receives funding from room tax revenues generated in unincorporated Clallam County, aimed at promoting and enhancing lodging nights in the region. The grant is designed to support tourism-related projects and events in Clallam County that attract overnight visitors. Grants are awarded with a focus on tourism promotion and marketing, as well as supporting appropriate special events. The available grant funds total $125,000 for 2024, typically not exceeding $7,500 per project/event, with a cap of $15,000 per annum per applicant organization. Grant renewed every year.

The Legacy Foundation of Southeast Arizona is offering Innovative Grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for one year to tax-exempt organizations and government entities, aiming to fund projects that promote community health and wellness through innovative solutions and collaborations, with a focus on addressing various aspects of community wellbeing and resilience.

The City of Alexandria Arts Grants program aims to foster artistic excellence and provide engaging arts experiences for both residents and visitors of Alexandria. This initiative aligns with the city's broader mission to strengthen its creative capacity, enhance the stability of local arts organizations, and cultivate a vibrant urban environment through high-quality artistic creation and presentation. The program seeks to ensure diverse opportunities for meaningful engagement with the arts across the city. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are non-profit arts organizations based in Alexandria that have been in existence for at least one full year. The program also supports individual artists and other entities contributing to the arts within the city limits. The impact goals are centered on improving the capacity and stability of Alexandria-based organizations and enriching the cultural lives of its residents and visitors. The program prioritizes supporting organizations that create, perform, and present works of artistic excellence and innovation. It also focuses on diversifying opportunities for residents to engage with the arts and fostering a vibrant urban environment. Projects must take place within Alexandria's city limits between July 1 and June 30 of each fiscal year. Expected outcomes include a stronger creative sector in Alexandria, with increased opportunities for residents to participate in and experience the arts. The program anticipates an improvement in the stability and capacity of local arts organizations, leading to a more dynamic and culturally rich city. Measurable results will likely be tied to the number and diversity of arts programs offered, the audience reach, and the organizational health of grant recipients, though specific metrics are not detailed in the provided text. The funding structure provides grants up to $12,500, not to exceed 50% of the total program budget, and requires a 1:1 cash match. This co-funding model encourages community investment and ensures a shared commitment to the success of arts initiatives. The grant period for approved projects runs from July 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024, indicating a focus on specific, shorter-term program support. The theory of change appears to be that by investing in local arts organizations and artists, the City of Alexandria can directly enhance the cultural landscape, engage its community, and strengthen its overall creative economy.

The Minneapolis Foundation, in partnership with the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, is offering grants between $1000 and $10,000 to Minnesota K-12 educators for the development and implementation of resources, curriculum, and activities that accurately teach Native content and support Native students, with a total of $150,000 available for the 2024-2025 school year.

This program provides funding to community organizations that empower low-income individuals by supporting the development of economic initiatives that promote equity, justice, and sustainable livelihoods.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to rural libraries in Oregon to create community-focused humanities events that explore themes related to public life and community engagement.

The Stewarding Native Lands program, offered by First Nations Development Institute, is designed to bolster tribal co-stewardship agreements and related capacity building. This initiative aligns with the broader movement towards co-stewardship of public lands, as mandated by Joint Secretarial Order 3403 and other authorities, including new state policies. The core mission is to restore tribal stewardship, which is seen as crucial for advancing ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation, and adaptation to climate change, particularly through the reintroduction of buffalo and fire to grasslands. The target beneficiaries are Tribes located near or bordering National Grasslands in the Northern Great Plains, specifically in Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming. Eligible applicants include Federal- and State-Recognized tribal Governments and Departments. The program's impact goals center on empowering these Tribes with the necessary resources and capacity to effectively negotiate, implement, and monitor co-stewardship agreements with the U.S. Forest Service. The program's priorities and focuses include providing technical assistance, trainings, and networking opportunities specifically tailored to co-stewardship. A key emphasis is placed on strengthening and increasing tribal co-stewardship on National Grasslands in the Great Plains region. This strategic approach positions Tribes as vital anchors in promoting greater ecological connectivity for grassland protection and health. The expected outcomes and measurable results include a demonstrable increase in the number and effectiveness of tribal co-stewardship agreements with the U.S. Forest Service. The ultimate goal is enhanced ecological connectivity and improved health of National Grasslands through tribal leadership and participation. While the description doesn't explicitly detail the First Nations Development Institute's overall strategic priorities or theory of change beyond this program, it clearly indicates a belief that empowering Indigenous communities in land stewardship leads to significant environmental and cultural benefits. The grant period is from October 15, 2024, to November 30, 2026, with individual project budgets not exceeding $125,000.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Bartow County, Georgia, that provide impactful programs in areas such as education, financial stability, health services, and community resilience.

This program provides training, mentorship, and funding for underserved agricultural entrepreneurs in the U.S. to help them develop and scale their businesses, ultimately benefiting their communities.

This grant provides funding for youth-led programs in Ohio to develop and implement effective suicide prevention activities that address mental health challenges among middle and high school students.

The Belonging Colorado initiative, spearheaded by The Denver Foundation, is a timely effort to unite Coloradans across various lines of difference, including race, religion, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and age. The overarching goal is to cultivate a stronger sense of belonging throughout the state, enabling all residents to thrive. The program seeks to invest in innovative ideas that foster connections among diverse groups, addressing the growing social division and disconnection observed at both state and national levels. This aligns with The Denver Foundation's broader mission to support the long-term health, resilience, and well-being of Colorado communities by promoting collaborative work in the face of intense social, economic, and environmental challenges. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are community-based organizations, local governments, and other community-focused entities operating within Colorado. These entities are expected to have strong, trusted relationships within their communities and a proven track record of supporting community-driven work. The impact goals are centered on fostering greater belonging, building connections across differences, and enabling Coloradans to work effectively together. The program aims to support initiatives that strengthen social cohesion and demonstrate a commitment to collaborative efforts among diverse individuals and organizations. The priorities and focuses of the Belonging Colorado grant include supporting work that connects with the fund's mission of bridging divides and investing in ideas that build connections among people from different backgrounds. A key focus is on organizations that can model collaborative work and engage with groups and individuals holding differing views and experiences. The program emphasizes a commitment to building connections across difference, as well as the alignment, feasibility, creativity, and potential for impact of proposed programs. Applicants are also expected to demonstrate a willingness to receive feedback and iterate on their ideas. Expected outcomes include the successful implementation of programs that increase connections and a sense of belonging among Coloradans. Measurable results will likely stem from the commitment of selected partners to participate fully in a Community of Practice, including consistent attendance and active engagement during trainings, as well as a clear intention to submit a proposal for program implementation throughout 2025 and 2026. While specific quantitative metrics are not detailed in this description, the emphasis on "potential for impact" and the subsequent implementation grant suggest a focus on demonstrable positive changes in community connections and collaborative efforts. The Denver Foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change, as evidenced by this grant, involve addressing societal challenges through community-led initiatives that promote inclusivity and collaboration. By investing in organizations that bridge divides and foster belonging, the Foundation aims to create a more resilient and equitable Colorado. The provision of a planning grant, followed by an opportunity for a larger implementation grant, suggests a phased approach to support, allowing for initial program development and refinement before scaled execution, aligning with a theory of change that prioritizes thoughtful planning and sustained impact.

The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute's Community Partnership Program (CPP) is designed to cultivate sustainable collaborations with Oregon communities to address identified cancer needs. The program's mission is to partner with these communities as allies in the Knight Cancer Institute's goal of ending cancer. This aligns with a broader strategic priority to enhance community-OHSU collaboration on local cancer issues and disparities, fostering long-term sustainability of local efforts. The CPP targets various Oregon community groups, including organizations, schools, government bodies, health/medical clinics, health systems, and businesses. A key focus is on proposals that address cancer-related health disparities and increase equity for historically disadvantaged and/or marginalized Oregon communities. Organizations led by and/or committed to serving these populations are highly encouraged to apply, underscoring the program's commitment to equitable cancer outcomes. The program's priorities revolve around supporting communities in identifying and addressing pressing cancer-related needs, enhancing collaboration, and building community skills for sustainable long-term efforts. This is operationalized through three grant tiers. Tier 1, "Define Need," focuses on developing local action plans through needs assessments or committee formation. Tier 2, "Develop and Pilot," supports the development and piloting of programs to address priority cancer issues or disparities. Tier 3, "Evaluate and Sustain," aims to evaluate existing approaches and establish sustainability strategies. Expected outcomes include communities effectively identifying their most pressing cancer-related needs, increased collaboration between OHSU and local communities, and enhanced capacity within communities to sustain efforts addressing local cancer issues. Measurable results would be tied to the specific objectives of each tier, such as the completion of community cancer needs assessments (Tier 1), the successful piloting of new programs (Tier 2), and the evaluation and sustained implementation of effective approaches (Tier 3). The overall impact goal is to collectively work towards ending cancer as communities know it, with a strong emphasis on reducing health disparities.