AIDSWatch@Home

AIDS United is accepting applications for the AIDSWatch@Home initiative, a state-level HIV advocacy and education grant program. AIDS United, a national organization focused on ending the HIV epidemic in the United States, collaborates with the U.S. People Living with HIV Caucus and the Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation at Harvard University to deliver AIDSWatch, the nation's largest constituent-led HIV advocacy event. Recognizing the importance of localized policy engagement, AIDS United launched AIDSWatch@Home to expand advocacy efforts to state legislatures, enabling communities to advocate effectively for health equity and HIV policy reform at the local level. For the 2025–2026 cycle, AIDS United will fund up to eight organizations or coalitions—one in each selected state—with grants of up to $15,000 each. These funds will support the planning and execution of branded AIDSWatch@Home events to be held by November 2026, ideally aligned with the respective state legislative sessions. The grant also includes structured technical assistance provided by AIDS United staff to help grantees successfully develop and implement their events. The grant period runs for 12 months, from December 1, 2025, through November 30, 2026. Eligible applicants include nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations or coalitions, or those with a qualified fiscal sponsor. Organizations must be based in and serve communities within U.S. states, territories, or tribal lands. Applicants must be financially stable, in good standing with AIDS United (if previously funded), and prepared to utilize the awarded funds during the project period. The program welcomes both current and first-time AIDS United grantees. Successful applicants will incorporate intersectional approaches to HIV-related disparities and engage with the principles of Meaningful Involvement of People Living with HIV/AIDS (MIPA). Proposed projects should reflect an understanding of how multiple systems of oppression intersect to impact access to care and health outcomes for people living with HIV. AIDS United encourages applicants to reference available resources to enhance their proposals and deepen their understanding of these frameworks. Participation in monitoring and evaluation is required. Grantees must track and report key metrics including event attendance, engagement, social media impact, advocacy outcomes, and attendee feedback. In addition, grantees must commit to regular technical assistance activities, including planning meetings, a fireside webinar with other grantees, and a post-event debrief. AIDS United will provide the necessary tools and support to facilitate this process. Applications must be submitted online by 6 p.m. Eastern Time on October 6, 2025. The application includes narrative responses and general organizational information. Selected applicants will be notified of funding decisions by November 24, 2025. AIDS United staff are available for technical assistance throughout the application process, with inquiries directed to Leslie McGorman or the general grants support email.

Applicants should demonstrate intersectionality and MIPA frameworks; consult recommended HIV racial justice resources.