Mennonite Mission Network offers an annual Anti-Racism Grant to support underfunded organizations in the United States that are led by and serve communities of Asian, Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, or other People of Color. This grant is rooted in the organization’s broader mission of peacebuilding, social justice, and dismantling systemic racism. The initiative acknowledges historic inequities and aims to empower communities disproportionately affected by systemic injustice by enabling them to further their local peacemaking and anti-racism efforts.
The program targets small nonprofits and ministries with fewer than 20 paid staff, particularly those that have historically struggled to obtain financial support. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based and led by People of Color who are actively involved in anti-racism, social justice, conflict resolution, or community healing work. The initiative seeks to support tangible new projects rather than fund salaries or cover basic operational costs.
Applications are accepted from October through January, with a firm submission deadline of January 31. Interested organizations must complete a simple online application form. Required information includes the project title, description, organization details, staff composition, IRS exemption status, and responses to questions regarding funding sustainability and the project's alignment with anti-racism and peacemaking efforts.
Grants of up to $15,000 may be awarded based on need and the potential impact of the proposed project. The total available funding is $50,000. The grants are non-renewable, and recipients from the previous year are ineligible to reapply. Award decisions are made in the spring by the ABIDE team at Mennonite Mission Network, in consultation with diverse representatives from Mennonite Church USA. Selected recipients must submit a brief annual report outlining the use and impact of the funding.
Community outreach is a vital component of the program. The Mission Network prioritizes engagement with affected communities by working alongside local leaders and organizations to promote the opportunity. This grassroots approach ensures the grant reaches those who need it most and builds stronger community connections. The grant program recurs annually.
Focus on new projects; do not request salaries or operational support; prior winners not eligible.
