Chinook Fund Grant

The Chinook Fund is a private grantmaking organization based in Denver, Colorado, with over 37 years of experience in funding grassroots movements for social justice. Since its inception, Chinook Fund has awarded more than $5.1 million to over 570 community-based organizations. The fund’s unique approach to philanthropy involves community members directly in the decision-making process through The Giving Project, ensuring that those with lived experience of social justice work are the ones guiding where resources are allocated. The Chinook Fund centers its funding strategy on racial and social justice, with 90 percent of previous grantees being led by Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color. The purpose of the Chinook Fund grant program is to support groups working toward systemic change by addressing the root causes of oppression rather than treating symptoms. The fund is particularly interested in efforts aligned with community organizing principles, including constituent-led decision-making, community-wide engagement, and initiatives aimed at creating lasting institutional change. Eligible applicants must be based in Colorado, have annual budgets under $350,000, and demonstrate democratic leadership practices accountable to directly impacted communities. The fund is open to nonprofit organizations, including those without 501(c)(3) status, provided they have a fiscal sponsor or a dedicated organizational bank account. The Chinook Fund operates on a biannual funding cycle, with the upcoming Fall 2025 round opening on July 15, 2025, and closing on September 15, 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by March 2026. Grantmaking decisions are made by members of The Giving Project through a consensus-based process, which includes reviewing applications, conducting site visits, and collaborative deliberation. Chinook Fund offers three types of grants: Start-Up Grants of up to $4,000 for organizations younger than four years, Established Grants of up to $10,000 for more experienced groups, and Multi-Year Grants for groups that meet specific prior funding criteria. The application process is hosted entirely online through the Chinook Fund’s grant portal. Organizations are encouraged to participate in a Grant Application Workshop, especially if they are new to the fund. These workshops offer insight into eligibility, criteria, and application tips, and are available both live and as recorded sessions. The fund also provides a three-part online tutorial that covers its values, funding criteria, and step-by-step instructions for the application form, including budget and diversity charts. Chinook Fund’s evaluation criteria emphasize community organizing, collaborative work, strategic vision, and a commitment to challenging oppression. Priority is given to organizations that center Black Liberation and Indigenous Sovereignty, although work led by and for other marginalized communities is also considered. Groups that applied in the Spring 2025 cycle are ineligible to apply for the Fall 2025 round unless an exception is made by Chinook Fund staff. Chinook Fund does not support work related to electoral campaigns or substantial lobbying, nor does it fund private interest efforts. For additional information or questions, applicants may contact the Chinook Fund via email at grants@chinookfund.org or by phone at 303-455-6905. Their offices are located at 1031 33rd Street, Suite 237, Denver, Colorado 80205. Application materials and a detailed FAQ are available on their website. The fund strongly encourages early preparation and participation in workshops to maximize the quality of submissions and chances of funding.