The Karma for Cara Foundation Microgrant Program provides funding for youth-led service projects across the United States. This initiative supports students 18 years old and under in their efforts to make a meaningful impact in their communities. The program offers grants ranging from $250 to $1,000 to help fund service projects that go beyond simple item donations and actively engage participants in community improvement.
Applicants can submit proposals at any time, but they are reviewed on a quarterly basis, with deadlines on January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1. Submissions must be completed by 11:59 PM EST on these dates to be considered in the corresponding review cycle. Notification of next steps is sent within two weeks after each deadline. Applications received after a deadline will be considered in the next cycle.
Eligible applicants include individual students or student groups working on projects that involve more than just purchasing and donating items. Projects should engage participants in hands-on service activities, such as assembling, organizing, or transforming materials to benefit others. The foundation does not fund stipends, facility rentals, or transportation costs.
If a student group is applying, a maximum of three student leaders should be designated as points of contact. Applications should also provide clear details on the number of students involved and the expected number of beneficiaries, though larger numbers do not necessarily make a project more competitive.
The Karma for Cara Foundation is dedicated to equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, religion, disability, national origin, or any other protected status.
For questions about the microgrant program or technical difficulties while applying, applicants can contact Noemi Cruz-Cruz at noemi@karmaforcara.org.
