Emerging Philanthropists of New Orleans Grant

Emerging Philanthropists of New Orleans (EPNO) is a philanthropic initiative under the Greater New Orleans Foundation that engages emerging community leaders in a six-month giving circle program focused on collective grantmaking and learning. Each annual cohort is organized into impact teams, which focus on specific funding areas and collaboratively develop focus statements, review nonprofit proposals, and allocate funds. The program is designed to foster civic engagement, strategic philanthropy, and sustained impact in the Greater New Orleans region. For the 2025 cycle, EPNO will distribute grants in three focus areas: Arts & Culture, Health, and Human Rights & Justice. Each impact team is responsible for reviewing applications in its domain and will award up to $10,000 per selected grantee. Funding will be unrestricted operating support unless otherwise noted, and preference is given to organizations serving vulnerable populations and working toward equitable outcomes. Eligibility requirements for applicants include having 501(c)(3) status or a fiscal sponsor, being located within the Foundation’s 13-parish service area, and maintaining an annual operating budget of $1,000,000 or less unless otherwise specified. Additional criteria apply depending on the impact area. For example, Arts & Culture applicants must have budgets under $500,000 and provide direct support to local culture bearers, excluding advocacy-focused efforts. Health applicants should focus on preventive care and community well-being, while Human Rights & Justice applicants must address access, policy change, legal support, or wraparound services for vulnerable communities. Applications must clearly articulate the barriers faced by target populations, the organization’s strategy to empower communities, and how the proposed funding will contribute to sustainability and long-term impact. Programs informed by the voices of those they serve and grounded in community networks are particularly encouraged. The application period opened on September 5, 2025, and all letters of intent must be submitted electronically through the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s online portal no later than September 26, 2025. Late or non-electronic submissions will not be considered. Applicants will be notified if a conflict of interest exists involving any EPNO member. A tutorial for applicants is available via Foundant, the Foundation’s technology partner. Questions may be directed to the program team at EPNO@gnof.org. Interested organizations should prepare to demonstrate a strong track record of community service, financial stability, and alignment with EPNO’s mission to promote change, dignity, and equity through strategic local philanthropy.

Strong applications clearly articulate barriers addressed, voices of impacted communities, sustainability strategies, and alignment with impact team values.