The 1954 Project Luminary Grant

The 1954 Project Luminary Award is a prestigious philanthropic initiative offered by The CAFE Group, a nonprofit organization committed to reimagining the architecture of philanthropy. Rooted in principles of equity and justice, The CAFE Group channels resources toward leaders and institutions that support a more equitable society. Their initiatives include The 1954 Project, which invests in education leaders, and the LEAD Internship Program for early-career changemakers. This approach is built on the idea that capital, social connection, and leadership must align to reshape systems and ensure a just future. The 1954 Project Luminary Award specifically honors transformational nonprofit leaders who focus on advancing education for Black students and communities. The award includes catalytic funding and a support framework designed to create sustainable, systemic change. Each selected organization receives $1 million in unrestricted funding, along with leadership coaching, capacity-building support, and access to a powerful national network of peers and mentors. This three-year program is structured to not only fuel operational growth but also to offer a platform for visibility and shared learning. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a strong, equity-centered vision and a proven commitment to the advancement of Black communities. While the funder recognizes that organizational impact may intersect with various social domains, applicants must identify their primary focus area from one of three key grantmaking pillars. These pillars are: Innovation in Teaching and Learning, Diversity in Education, and Pathways to Economic Mobility. Each of these focus areas seeks to address educational disparities by fostering culturally affirming practices, increasing Black leadership in education, or promoting economic empowerment through educational innovation. The application process for the 2026 cycle began with a pre-application form open from October 23 to December 15, 2025. Only those who completed this step were eligible to move forward. The first round of the formal application takes place in January 2026, where applicants are asked to share their stories and visions. Successful applicants then advance to a second round in March 2026, which requires detailed descriptions of their strategies and leadership approach. The final stage involves interviews between May and June 2026, including a conversation with a nominated board member and the selection committee. Cohort notifications are expected in summer 2026, with a public announcement to follow in fall. Though the pre-application window for the 2026 cycle has closed, the program is recurring and will reopen for a new cycle in fall 2026. Organizations interested in applying should monitor updates on The 1954 Project website and begin preparations for the next round by reviewing the eligibility criteria and thematic focus areas. As the process is highly competitive and emphasizes values alignment, prospective applicants are encouraged to evaluate their organizational fit and readiness thoroughly. Selected Luminaries benefit from more than just funding. They gain entry into a vibrant national network committed to Black excellence and systemic transformation in education. Through this collective effort, The 1954 Project aims to move capital more boldly and invest in leadership with deep intentionality—transforming not just educational systems, but the future trajectory of Black communities across the United States.

Demonstrate strategic vision, deep community commitment, and leadership capacity aligned with equity-centered impact.