IOLTA Grants Program

The Massachusetts Bar Foundation (MBF), a philanthropic partner of the Massachusetts Bar Association, operates as one of three charitable organizations in the state designated to distribute Interest on Lawyers’ Trust Accounts (IOLTA) funds. The MBF represents a commitment among lawyers and judges in Massachusetts to promote justice, ensure legal system accessibility, and improve the administration of justice, particularly for the most vulnerable residents. Under Supreme Judicial Court rules, MBF distributes IOLTA funds annually to support nonprofit programs that provide civil legal services to low-income individuals or that enhance the administration of justice in the Commonwealth. For the 2026/2027 cycle, MBF expects to distribute approximately $7 million, building upon the $6.7 million granted to 93 programs in the previous year. The IOLTA Grants Program specifically funds Massachusetts-based nonprofit organizations addressing civil legal needs among low-income residents. Priority is given to 501(c)(3) organizations, although other nonprofit entities may qualify. Eligible applicants must serve residents of Massachusetts, and funding is not available for individuals. Additionally, while most awards support legal service or law-related nonprofit agencies, rare exceptions allow certain public agencies to receive pilot funding for initiatives intended to transition into publicly funded programs. MBF prohibits funding of social services or activities that may constitute the unlicensed practice of law, and all non-attorney positions must demonstrate supervision by licensed attorneys. Grant funding supports programs that deliver civil legal services addressing basic subsistence needs such as housing, domestic violence, education, healthcare, and economic security. The MBF’s 2026/2027 Grant Priorities statement outlines that highest priority is given to programs offering direct legal representation or consultation through attorneys or certified law students. Additional eligible program formats include legal advice services, supervised paralegal or certified advocate support, and initiatives aimed at judicial education, court efficiency, and systemic reform within the judicial system. Programs must be well-organized, cost-effective, technologically innovative, collaborative, and capable of leveraging pro bono and financial support. The grant performance period runs from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027. Applicants must submit their applications by 5:00 p.m. on March 20, 2026, through the MBF’s online portal. New applicants are required to contact the MBF Grants Office to discuss their proposal before submitting. Applications will be reviewed by committees consisting of MBF Trustees and Fellows, with final decisions made by the MBF Board of Trustees in June 2026. Funding is distributed in two phases: the first half on October 15, 2026, and the second half on April 15, 2027. A mid-year report is due by March 12, 2027, and a final report is due by September 17, 2027. Evaluation criteria include alignment with MBF priorities, program efficiency, innovation, collaboration with existing services, and the potential to attract external funding. Applications are highly competitive, and awards are often below the requested amount. The MBF emphasizes that there is no appeal process for funding decisions and advises applicants to seek other sources of funding during the review period. Applicants with questions can contact the MBF Grants Office at [email protected] or (617) 338-0500. Application documents and priority guidelines are available on the MBF website. All applicants must adhere strictly to the guidelines and timelines to ensure consideration for funding. MBF expects applicants to comply fully with the terms outlined in the grant agreement upon award.

Avoid proposing non-attorney-supervised legal services; Ensure compliance with MBF’s eligibility scope and funding priorities.