Seeding the Future Grants are offered by the Deaconess Foundation to support general operations of organizations committed to systemic transformation and equity across Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois. These grants aim to bolster civic infrastructure, grassroots advocacy, coalition building, and public policy development that advance the health and wellness of communities through intergenerational strategies. Funding is awarded as unrestricted general operating support to deepen organizational capacity and catalyze systemic interventions aligned with Deaconess’ long-term vision.
Each Seeding the Future grant provides a one-year, non-renewable award of $20,000. Eligible activities include local or state-level advocacy, organizing campaigns, research and convening work, and testing of innovative initiatives aimed at structural change. The grant does not fund direct service delivery, event sponsorships, capital campaigns, or work solely programmatic in nature. Instead, it is designed to support transformative efforts that address root causes of inequity and oppression.
Deaconess employs a trust-based philanthropy model in administering these grants, forgoing traditional reporting in favor of ongoing dialogue and relationship-building. Organizations must apply during one of four application windows in 2025. Cycle 3 opens on August 4, 2025, and closes August 29, 2025. The final Cycle 4 opens October 6, 2025, and closes October 31, 2025. All applications must be submitted through Deaconess’ online portal by 11:59 PM on the closing date of each cycle.
Applicants must be located in or serve residents of St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Jefferson County, St. Charles County, or Franklin County in Missouri, or Madison, St. Clair, or Monroe Counties in Illinois. Organizations must either have 501(c)(3) status or a formal relationship with a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor. Deaconess will consider 501(c)(4) organizations if their application clearly outlines activities permissible under a 501(c)(3) framework. Applications from new and emerging organizations are welcome.
This grant is particularly well-suited for partners exploring deeper engagement with Deaconess' Movement Transformation Cohort in future funding cycles. All submitted proposals must articulate a systems-level strategy aimed at dismantling racial and structural inequities, and fostering liberation across generations. Questions about the opportunity may be directed to the Grants Team at GrantHelp@deaconess.org.
Deaconess does not require formal reporting but expects ongoing dialogue. Use this opportunity to test or grow systems-focused work. Visit deaconess.org to see funded examples.
