Private Law Justice and Legal Services Grants

Arts Midwest is offering Cultural Sustainability: Equity-Based Operating Grants of up to $67,000 to small arts and culture organizations rooted in communities of color, providing general operating support for those with annual expenses up to $500,000 in selected states.

This grant provides funding to support small farmers and public entities in Maryland to aggregate local food products for sale to wholesale and institutional markets, enhancing the local food system.

This grant provides unrestricted funding to nonprofit organizations in Polk, Warren, and Dallas counties, Iowa, that focus on improving the safety, education, and economic empowerment of girls and women.

The Rose Community Foundation's Jewish Life Grant Program aims to support organizations and programs that reflect Greater Denver's diverse Jewish communities. The program seeks to offer meaningful and relevant opportunities for engagement in Jewish life while welcoming diverse individuals, families, and practices. This initiative aligns with the foundation's broader mission to foster a thriving Jewish community and contribute to social well-being in the region. The target beneficiaries are organizations and programs serving the seven-county Greater Denver community, specifically focusing on Jewish people within Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson Counties. The impact goals include strengthening Jewish organizations, promoting diverse engagement in Jewish life, and advancing social justice through Jewish values and traditions. The program prioritizes efforts to increase the organizational strength and capacity of Jewish organizations working in the seven-county Denver metro area. It also focuses on programs and projects that are reflective of diverse Jewish communities and offer meaningful opportunities for engagement. Additionally, Jewish initiatives seeking to advance social justice by engaging Jewish people and using Jewish values to respond to key social and economic issues are a priority. Expected outcomes include enhanced organizational capacity within Jewish organizations, increased and more diverse participation in Jewish life, and a greater impact on social justice issues through Jewish-led initiatives. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the program implies a focus on growth in organizational strength, community engagement, and social impact. The foundation's strategic priorities, as evidenced by this program, revolve around supporting and strengthening the Jewish community in Greater Denver. Their theory of change appears to be that by investing in the capacity of Jewish organizations, fostering diverse engagement, and supporting social justice initiatives rooted in Jewish values, they can create a more vibrant, inclusive, and impactful Jewish community that positively addresses broader societal challenges.

Our grantees work to build on the entrepreneurial spirit, strong community ties, and untapped potential within Native nations, communities of color, rural communities, and other resilient communities who have fewer opportunities to thrive on their own terms. We envision strong, vibrant communities where people are connected to good jobs and have the financial capability to build their assets and provide a secure future for their families and communities. A Need to Close the Opportunity Gaps Our economic system doesn’t work for everyone. It widens income and opportunity gaps, restrains economic mobility, and traps people and communities in a cycle of poverty and injustice. A disproportionate number of Native Americans, people of color, refugees, immigrants, and rural Americans are living in crisis—or just a paycheck away from it. Nationally, six in 10 families of color don’t have the cash on hand to cover basic expenses—like rent, medical emergencies, or the need to fix a car—for three months.

The North Carolina IOLTA's Administration of Justice Grants program is dedicated to improving the administration of justice within North Carolina. This program aligns with the foundation's mission by focusing on areas where grants can have a measurable impact on the justice system's effectiveness and expediency. Key areas of funding include improving the operation and management of the justice system, public education and understanding about the law, promotion and support for a full range of dispute resolution techniques and alternatives, and promotion and support for public interest legal representation. The primary beneficiaries of this program are North Carolina residents who are indigent, defined as individuals at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or eligible for public assistance. Programs may also consider other factors like access to liquid assets, fixed debts, obligations, and family size. The goal is to provide services without charge, though nominal fees with complete waiver options are permitted, especially in areas where legal services are otherwise unavailable to low-income clients. The impact goals are centered on enhancing access to justice for those who cannot afford legal assistance, thereby strengthening the overall justice system. Funding criteria prioritize applicants seeking start-up funds or seed money for new projects, programs offering services to individuals who do not qualify for civil legal aid but cannot afford legal assistance (including pro bono programs), programs with demonstration value or replication potential, initiatives with statewide significance, and requests for matching funds. The program specifically avoids funding direct service programs (e.g., counseling), replicas of established programs, local community groups unrelated to the practice of law, programs for which there is governmental funding responsibility, and continuing program support for local projects exceeding three years. The expected outcomes include a more effective and expeditious justice system in North Carolina, increased public understanding of the law, broader access to dispute resolution techniques, and stronger public interest legal representation. By focusing on these strategic priorities, NC IOLTA aims to foster a justice system that is more accessible, equitable, and efficient for all North Carolina residents, particularly those with limited financial means. The theory of change is that targeted investments in the operational aspects of the justice system, coupled with efforts to educate the public and support legal aid, will lead to significant improvements in how justice is administered across the state. The grant period for these projects is January 1 – December 31, 2025.

This funding opportunity supports organizations and youth-led initiatives that aim to raise awareness and inspire action for young people affected by the justice system through events and activities during Youth Justice Action Month.

Grant Opportunity: Grand Strategy Research Grants Funder: Charles Koch Foundation The Grand Strategy Research Grants program, funded by the Charles Koch Foundation, aims to support scholars and research institutions interested in challenging the current approach to U.S. foreign policy and providing alternative visions. The program is open to proposals from various fields, with a particular interest in political science, international relations, history, and economics. The grant opportunity seeks research projects that explore topics such as a grand strategy of restraint, the role of values and ethics in U.S. foreign policy formulation, unintended consequences of military actions abroad, impact on American society and civil liberties, executive-legislative relations in foreign policy, influence of interest groups on foreign policy decisions, growth of intelligence and national security establishments since 9/11, costs and impacts of foreign aid and alliance commitments, Pentagon spending and defense policy demands, consequences of a multipolar world, and leveraging technology for a sound approach to grand strategy. Applicants are required to submit a two-to-five page abstract of the project along with a CV or résumé and a brief itemized budget. Final projects should be original and meet high standards in their respective fields. Funding levels will depend on the research requirements and potential for advancing understanding of critical issues. Accepted proposals may also receive support for disseminating research findings. Proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis. Interested applicants can find more information about the grant opportunity and access the application form on the Charles Koch Foundation's website at https://charleskochfoundation.tfaforms.net/344037?tfa_13=tfa_22

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations, schools, and government agencies in Limestone, Madison, and Morgan Counties, Alabama, for programs that enhance education, workforce development, and quality of life in the community.

This funding opportunity provides up to $5,000 to South Carolina law enforcement and code enforcement agencies to improve litter prevention and enforcement efforts.

The Pittsburgh Foundation is offering its Direct Care and Medical Assistance for Specific Disease Areas grant, stemming from the Robert N. Kohman Trust established in 2003. This fund is specifically designed to support social service organizations that provide direct care and assistance to individuals suffering from a range of serious afflictions, including Alzheimer’s disease, AIDS, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. The grant program aligns directly with the foundation's mission to address critical community needs, particularly those related to health and well-being, by supporting organizations that offer tangible assistance to vulnerable populations. The target beneficiaries of this grant are individuals experiencing severe and chronic health conditions within Allegheny County. The foundation seeks to empower organizations that provide direct care and support, aiming for a significant impact on the lives of those affected by these diseases. By focusing on direct care, the grant intends to improve the quality of life, access to necessary services, and overall well-being of the beneficiaries, contributing to a more resilient and supported community. The foundation prioritizes funding for organizations that demonstrate a deep connection to and representation of the communities they serve. A strong emphasis is placed on intentionally serving Black, Indigenous, Latino, and people of color communities, as well as addressing the intersection of race with other marginalized groups such such as LGBTQIA individuals, those with disabilities, women, the elderly, and immigrants. Additionally, organizations with a mission or programs that actively advance racial justice and those with an established history in their communities are highly favored. The grant also prioritizes organizations that primarily serve communities disproportionately impacted by poverty, reflecting the foundation's strategic commitment to equity and social justice. Organizations can apply for two types of support: Project/Program Support, which funds specific, time-bound programmatic activities with clear goals, and General Operating Support, which provides flexible funding for an organization's overall mission-related expenses, including administrative costs, rent, and program delivery. Grant durations are generally up to two years, with one-year grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $75,000 and two-year grants not exceeding $150,000. For larger requests, organizations are encouraged to consult with a program officer. The foundation's strategic approach underscores the belief that by supporting organizations deeply rooted in affected communities and focused on racial justice, measurable improvements in health outcomes and a reduction in health disparities can be achieved.

The Sherwood-Antler Community Foundation is currently accepting applications for its grant program, which aims to provide financial support to projects and nonprofit organizations operating within the communities of Sherwood and Antler. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to facilitate donations and distribute grants, thereby fostering community development and supporting local non-profits. The foundation is affiliated with the North Dakota Community Foundation, operating as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation. Target beneficiaries for these grants include organizations formed under IRS code 501(c)(3) and entities with official ties to government bodies, such as schools, park districts, or city administrations. The primary impact goal is to serve the residents of Sherwood and Antler by supporting organizations that directly benefit these communities. While the grant details do not explicitly state a theory of change, the foundation's strategic priority is clearly to strengthen local initiatives and provide essential resources where needed most. The grant program prioritizes organizations that demonstrate strong organizational management and integrity, exhibit a high level of local involvement and support, and can effectively serve a significant number of people. Religious organizations are eligible, but funding will be specifically limited to activities that are non-denominational and broadly benefit the entire community. This focus ensures that the grants contribute to inclusive community well-being. In terms of expected outcomes and measurable results, the foundation will consider the impact each grant has on the overall success of the proposed project. While specific metrics are not detailed, the emphasis on the number of people served and the project's success suggests a focus on tangible community benefit and effective resource utilization. Generally, individual grants are not expected to exceed $1,000 per application, indicating a strategy to support a wider array of smaller, impactful local projects.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to municipalities and non-profit organizations in Connecticut for environmental assessment and cleanup of brownfield sites, particularly in underserved communities, to promote the creation of parks and recreational spaces.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofits and local governments in restoring and enhancing the natural environment of the Connecticut River watershed, focusing on projects that provide unique environmental benefits.

This fellowship provides $10,000 to support AAPI women and gender-expansive individuals in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, or Georgia who are dedicated to creating impactful civic projects in their communities, along with mentorship and skills training.

The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation is offering grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and community organizations that provide services to improve the quality of life for residents of specific towns, with a focus on low-income and underserved individuals, in areas such as arts, culture, education, environment, health, and social services, while prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Forecast Public Art’s Midwest Memory Grant, ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, is open to non-profit organizations in rural Midwest communities, aiming to elevate and preserve the stories of BIPOC communities through monuments, with a focus on addressing systemic inequities and advancing racial justice.

This grant provides financial support to U.S.-based for-profit businesses with at least one Latino/x founder, celebrating their contributions and fostering economic growth within the Latino/x community.

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s Gulf Research Program (GRP) is inviting proposals for its "Building the Next Generation of STEMM Leaders in the Field of Environmental Justice" initiative. This grant opportunity is designed to support projects that develop and implement programs cultivating future STEMM leaders in Environmental Justice (EJ). The GRP's mission, as evident in this program, aligns with fostering scientific literacy and addressing critical environmental challenges through education and mentorship. The grant aims to raise awareness, expand understanding, and empower young people to apply STEMM disciplines to explore the relationship between environmental hazards and their effects on community health and resilience. The primary beneficiaries of this program are young people in grades 9-12, particularly those from communities affected by environmental inequalities in the United States Gulf of Mexico region. The impact goal is to increase the number of young people in this region who pursue studies and careers in STEMM disciplines within the field of Environmental Justice. The program specifically encourages collaborations with nonprofit or community-based organizations that have a history of working with children and youth, especially underrepresented or underserved populations such as racial/ethnic minorities, tribal youth, LGBTQ+ youth, students with low socio-economic status, children with disabilities, first-generation immigrants, and students from rural or remote areas. The core focus of this funding opportunity is on education and mentorship. Projects should provide youth with opportunities to learn about and apply STEMM principles in examining environmental hazards and their impact on communities. Activities can take place in both formal and informal educational settings, but must target 9th-12th graders and complement formal education standards. The GRP prioritizes proposals that foster the development of scientific and environmental literacy, skills, and competencies crucial for cultivating the next generation of EJ leaders. Expected outcomes include increased awareness and understanding among youth regarding environmental hazards and their effects on communities, as well as enhanced capacity for youth to pursue STEMM studies and/or careers in Environmental Justice. The GRP anticipates a measurable increase in the number of young people in the Gulf of Mexico region engaging with STEMM disciplines related to EJ. This grant operates with a strategic priority of building human capacity and fostering a more equitable and resilient future by empowering youth to address environmental challenges. The theory of change behind this initiative is that by investing in early education and mentorship in STEMM and EJ, the GRP can create a pipeline of informed and capable leaders who will contribute to solving complex environmental issues in vulnerable communities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local nonprofit organizations in Connecticut for innovative programs and urgent needs, with grants ranging from $250 to $10,000.