The American Psychological Foundation’s Direct Action Visionary Grants are designed to support innovative, evidence-based interventions that respond directly to the pressing needs of communities. These grants are grounded in psychological knowledge and are particularly aimed at projects addressing systemic bias, bigotry, and marginalization. The program seeks to uplift work that aligns with APF’s four Visionary Priorities: serving marginalized communities, ending prejudice and stigma, preventing violence, and exploring mind-body health connections.
Applicants may be individuals or organizations and do not need to be psychologists or mental health professionals. However, a central expert in the psychological foundation of the proposed intervention must be involved throughout the life of the project. Projects are not limited to clinical or academic settings, and APF encourages applications from diverse backgrounds across race, geography, identity, and discipline. Grants may support a variety of approaches, such as adapting proven psychological interventions for underserved communities or translating evidence-based resources for new populations.
The grant provides funding of up to $60,000 for selected projects. APF does not require projects to operate within traditional settings and supports efforts to bridge gaps in mental health access and understanding. Example projects include evaluating an evidence-based community intervention, funding outreach programs, or developing culturally appropriate educational tools based on psychological principles.
Applications begin with a Letter of Intent (LOI), which may be submitted at any time. LOIs are reviewed quarterly with deadlines on October 31, January 30, April 30, July 31, and October 30. Based on the LOI review, selected applicants will be invited to submit a full application. Full applications are evaluated biannually following deadlines on March 31 and September 8. While APF does not provide pre-submission feedback on LOIs, comprehensive application instructions are available via the GivingData portal.
Evaluation of LOIs emphasizes innovation, impact potential, methodological clarity, and the significance of APF funding for project execution. Projects that represent minor adaptations of existing models or lack generalizability are less likely to be selected. The program encourages rigorous planning and commitment to project goals, outcomes, and accountability. Questions may be directed to programs@ampsychfdn.org, though applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the guidelines and online portal resources before reaching out.
Focus on innovation and evidence-based methodology; avoid minimal adaptations or low-impact projects; emphasize community relevance and psychological foundation.
