New Champions Fund

The Educating All Learners Alliance (EALA) has launched the 2025 New Champions Fund, a unique funding and mentorship opportunity designed to support leaders of color and allies advancing access and inclusion in education, particularly for students with disabilities from marginalized and underserved communities. The program aims to uplift and resource under-recognized leaders and organizations whose work often goes unnoticed in traditional national fundraising or communications channels. Applications for this sub-grant are accepted from April 1 through April 30, 2025, via the EALA Submission Portal. Selected applicants will receive a one-year unrestricted grant of $35,000, along with a year-long mentorship program to support strategic growth. Additional benefits include an invitation to the New Champions Retreat in late June 2025, which convenes current and past Fellows, and participation in national events, media engagements, webinars, and conferences to further elevate their work. In addition, three runners-up will be awarded $5,000 each. Eligibility is limited to leaders of community-based organizations (CBOs), non-profits, for-profit organizations, schools, or districts with annual revenue under $2 million. Applicants must either be leaders of color or allies dedicated to improving access and inclusion for students with disabilities—especially those who also experience poverty or systemic marginalization. Eligible applicants should be actively engaged in initiatives that advance education equity and demonstrate a commitment to these student populations. A key goal of the program is to support first-time or emerging grant applicants. To that end, EALA provides assistance during the application process, including open drop-in office hours on April 16 (1–3 PM ET) and April 28 (5–7 PM ET). These sessions offer support in navigating the application, clarifying criteria, and preparing a strong proposal aligned with the Fund’s priorities. Applicants are evaluated by the New Champions Judges—leaders in equity, innovation, and education—using a rubric that prioritizes commitment to serving students with disabilities from marginalized communities. Selected Champions and runners-up are chosen based on their potential for impact, strategic vision, and alignment with EALA’s mission. For more information and to apply, applicants can access the Request for Proposals (RFP) and submit their materials through the online portal. The program emphasizes transparency, equity, and access, aiming to build a more inclusive future for learners across the United States.