Uplifting Trans Fund

The Uplifting Trans Fund (UTF), a donor-funded 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to distributing microgrants to projects that uplift transgender, non-binary, and intersex individuals and communities. Backed by a network of grassroots supporters, UTF's 2025 grant cycle was made possible through contributions from 122 individual donors, 10 monthly contributors, social media fundraisers, foundational sponsors, and support from the Action for Transformation at Emergent Fund. This coalition of support exemplifies UTF's belief in collective impact and community-driven change. For the 2025 cycle, UTF will provide six microgrants of $2,500 each. These grants are awarded to initiatives that align with one of four ongoing categories: Advocacy, Creativity, Joy & Resilience, and a rotating priority category. The chosen priority area for 2025 is Supporting & Celebrating Trans Elders. Eligible projects should specifically support and celebrate the lives and experiences of transgender, non-binary, and intersex people. UTF explicitly states that it does not discriminate and welcomes proposals from any individual or group with a mission-aligned vision. UTF uses a two-part application process designed to ensure equity and reduce applicant burden. In Round 1, applicants provide basic information to determine project eligibility. From the eligible submissions, 100 projects will be selected using a random number generator to proceed to Round 2. The second round requires more detailed responses about project goals and plans. UTF encourages accessibility and makes clear that a professional grant writer is not required. Applications are evaluated based on five criteria: alignment with UTF’s mission, community benefit, category fit, project feasibility, and overall goals and planning. Volunteer reviewers handle the assessments, while final decisions rest with the UTF Board of Directors. The application timeline is as follows: Round 1 opens May 22, 2025, at 9 AM ET and closes June 13, 2025, at 9 PM ET. Notifications for Round 1 will be sent by June 30. Round 2 opens on July 1 and closes July 30, with reviews conducted from August to October. Final award announcements and fund distribution will occur in early November 2025, with public grantee announcements during Trans Awareness Week. Importantly, UTF does not fund retroactive projects, meaning any project completed before November 2025 is ineligible. Applications must be submitted via a form linked on UTF’s website, available starting May 22. UTF also offers an FAQ section addressing common concerns such as eligibility, application support, and tax implications. The organization provides direct contact support through email at info@upliftingtransfund.org and by phone at 267.225.7845. Their mailing address is 1800 JFK Blvd, Suite 300 - 94841, Philadelphia, PA 19103.