Community Grants

The Community Grants program is designed to support initiatives that directly benefit LGBTQ+ communities by funding targeted, measurable projects and services. The program operates across three annual funding cycles—Winter (January 15 to March 15), Spring (April 15 to June 15), and Fall (October 15 to December 15)—offering applicants multiple opportunities throughout the year to secure support. Managed by a dedicated grant review team, the application process emphasizes strategic alignment with the foundation's mission and prioritizes proposals that demonstrate a specific, substantiated need. Applicants are first required to complete a grant proposal through the foundation's website. This initial submission must include a detailed description of the applying organization, the program or service being proposed, the total funding requested, and the intended impact on LGBTQ+ lives. Required supporting documents must be uploaded as part of this phase. Applications are generally reviewed within four to six weeks of submission, with final decisions and disbursements following within two to four additional weeks. The evaluation process is rigorous, with proposals assessed not only on alignment with the foundation’s mission but also on clarity of goals, proposed use of funds, and the presence of measurable success metrics. Organizations may be contacted during this phase for further discussion, and reviewers may offer feedback or request modifications to strengthen the proposal’s impact. Where proposals do not align with the foundation's mission, the team may refer applicants to more suitable funding sources. Preference is given to proposals that are well-defined and finite in scope. While the foundation understands that some projects may require enhancements to staffing or facilities, such proposals are expected to clearly articulate the connection between the funding request and the outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals. The foundation values applications that are data-informed and outcome-driven. Applicants can expect transparent communication throughout the process. Approved proposals are followed by guidance on fund disbursement and next steps. Proposals may also be returned with suggestions for refinement or additional documentation, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to funding effectiveness and efficiency. The foundation encourages all prospective applicants to thoroughly review its funding priorities before submitting, ensuring strategic fit. Past recipients of the Community Grants program include notable organizations such as the Ali Forney Center, Ark of Safety, Asylum Connect, BAGLY, and the Bayard Rustin Community Center. These examples underscore the program’s commitment to supporting diverse initiatives that advance the well-being and rights of LGBTQ+ communities nationwide.