The Planning & Building for Social Justice Grant, offered by the Leever Foundation, is a new funding opportunity designed to support grassroots and community-based organizations working toward justice and equity in Waterbury, Connecticut. With a total of up to $100,000 available in 2025, this grant seeks to enhance the sustainability and strategic development of social justice efforts through capacity-building and technical assistance.
The Foundation aims to strengthen community-driven initiatives, particularly those addressing systemic inequities across racial, economic, gender, educational, and environmental lines. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, community groups, and movement-building initiatives operating in Waterbury. Entities must be working toward systems change and must plan to complete the funded project within a 12-month period. Grant funds are intended to support planning and infrastructure development, peer-to-peer learning, movement resilience, and other forms of organizational strengthening.
Priority will be given to proposals that respond to urgent political or social changes, center marginalized communities (including BILPOC, LGBTQIA+, immigrant, and disability justice groups), and clearly demonstrate collaboration, community engagement, and a plan for long-term impact and sustainability. Funding is not available for individuals, schools, government institutions, 501(c)(4) organizations, capital campaigns, or equipment purchases.
All applicants are required to attend a 45-minute webinar prior to applying. The two available webinar dates are March 31, 2025, at 2:30 PM and April 2, 2025, at 5:30 PM. Registration links are available via the Foundation’s website.
Applications must be submitted through the Foundation’s portal by May 2, 2025. Required components include a proposal narrative (or video alternative), project and organizational budgets, proof of nonprofit or fiscal sponsorship status, and letters of support for collaborations. Proposals will be evaluated based on alignment with funding priorities, feasibility, clarity, and the potential for long-term social impact. Applicants will be notified of decisions approximately five weeks after submission.
For more information, interested applicants can contact the Foundation at info@leeverfoundation.org or by calling 203-572-5975.
