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Best Diversity Grants for Nonprofits

Explore diversity grants supporting equity, inclusion, BIPOC-led organizations, and DEI initiatives for nonprofits.

493

Available grants

$25.8M

Total funding

$10K

Median grant

493 grants
$25.8M total
$10K median

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493 Results based on applied filters

AESEF: Graduate Studies in Audio Grants - Genelec Mike Chafee Audio Pioneering Scholarship

Audio Engineering Society Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The AESEF Genelec Mike Chafee Audio Pioneering Scholarship supports exceptional women pursuing graduate studies in audio engineering. Named in honor of Michael Chafee, a significant figure in audio innovation, this scholarship aims to empower women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 and are awarded based on academic merit and commitment to audio engineering. Payment is made directly to the student’s graduate school, facilitating a smoother educational journey.
Music Engineering Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

SMAC: Artist Equity Grants

Southwest Minnesota Arts Council
Private
Big Stone County, Minnesota, Chippewa County, Minnesota +16 more
Up to US $4,000
The SMAC Artist Equity Grants provide essential funding for Black, Indigenous, and artists of color at any career stage to enhance their artistic skills and expand their audience. Grants of up to $4,000 support various activities, including equipment purchase, mentorship, and professional development. The program aims to address historical disparities in the arts, ensuring equitable access and resources for marginalized communities in the SW MN region.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Artist Training & Development Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage +4 more

NCC: Early Career Artist Residencies (ECAR) - BIPOC Studio Fellowship

Northern Clay Center
Private
Hennepin County, Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The NCC: Early Career Artist Residencies (ECAR) - BIPOC Studio Fellowship offers a transformative opportunity for early career ceramic artists of color. This fellowship includes a year-long residency at Northern Clay Center, providing access to studio space, materials, and professional development. Recipients can engage in mentorship, participate in the NCECA conference, and present their work in a group exhibition. This initiative aims to nurture artistic growth and community among emerging BIPOC artists in the ceramics field.
Fine Art Artist Residencies Minority Services +1 more

C.H. Robinson Foundation Strategic Industry Grant Program

C H Robinson Worldwide Foundation
Corporate
Anoka County, Minnesota, Carver County, Minnesota +14 more
Unspecified amount
The C.H. Robinson Foundation Strategic Industry Grant Program supports nonprofits that enhance the supply chain and logistics workforce, promote environmental sustainability, and provide education in transportation. Since its establishment in 2005, the foundation has focused on impactful partnerships aligned with its mission. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or similar entities, and located within the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, ensuring community-driven support and development.
Vocational & Trade Education Environmental Stewardship Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Woods Hole Sea Grant Biennial Request for Proposals

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)
Private
Massachusetts
Up to US $250,000
The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Sea Grant is inviting proposals for innovative two-year research projects aimed at addressing coastal issues in Massachusetts. With a focus on healthy ecosystems, sustainable fisheries, and environmental literacy, the program seeks to enhance the conservation and practical use of marine resources. Approximately $1 million is available for funding, requiring a match of non-federal funds. This initiative emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the application of research results beyond academia.
Environmental Education Fisheries Aquaculture +3 more

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Education Grant

American Association Of Nurse Anesthetists
Private
United States
Up to US $25,000
The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiative Grant aims to promote innovative educational programs and enhance diversity within the nurse anesthesia profession. This grant supports efforts such as workshops, lectures, and online learning modules that address DEI issues. By funding these initiatives, the AANA Foundation seeks to foster an inclusive environment and advance the understanding of equity and diversity in the anesthesia community, benefiting both current and future practitioners.
Nursing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Anesthesia and Pain Medicine +1 more

KLA-Tencor Foundation: Education Opportunity Fund

KLA-Tencor Foundation
Corporate
Ada County, Idaho, Alameda County, California +33 more
US $50,000 - US $250,000
The KLA-Tencor Foundation's Education Opportunity Fund aims to enhance educational access, promote emotional well-being, and improve educational systems, particularly for under-resourced K-12 students. Grants between $50,000 and $250,000 are available for innovative projects that eliminate barriers to education and foster sustainable partnerships. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations with a significant impact in communities served by KLA, focusing on systemic change rather than direct student assistance.
Educational Access & Equity Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Education System Policy & Reform +3 more

NAF: Research Grants - Pre-doctoral Fellowship to Promote Diversity in Ataxia Research

National Ataxia Foundation Incorporated
Private
United States
Up to US $50,000
The National Ataxia Foundation (NAF) offers a Pre-doctoral Fellowship to Promote Diversity in Ataxia Research, a competitive, non-renewable award aimed at enhancing the training of students in health professional programs. This fellowship provides partial funding of $50,000 over two years for research related to ataxia. Applicants must identify as underrepresented minorities and aim for careers in research or clinical science. The fellowship promotes diversity and supports innovative research in the field.
Neurological Diseases & Disorders Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

CRSJ Racial Justice in Education Grant

National Education Association Staff Organization
Private
United States
US $5,000 - US $75,000
The CRSJ Racial Justice in Education Grant, administered by the National Education Association, aims to enhance racial equity within education by funding initiatives that promote awareness, leadership development, and solidarity among diverse racial groups. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $75,000, supporting projects that address racism and foster equitable policies in educational settings, thereby accelerating efforts towards social justice.
Social Justice / Human Rights Education - K through 12 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Community Advocacy & Partnership Engagement (CAPE) Grant

National Education Association Staff Organization
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The NEA Community Advocacy & Partnership Engagement (CAPE) Grant aims to support local affiliates in mobilizing community organizations to enhance student achievement, particularly for students of color. Key priorities include fostering initiatives for racial justice in education, engaging NEA members trained in leadership, and creating union roles for community engagement. This grant encourages collaboration between educators and community leaders to build capacity and drive positive change.
Education - K through 12 Social Justice / Human Rights Academic Success & Enrichment +4 more

Aspiring Educators CREATE Grants

National Education Association Staff Organization
Private
United States
Up to US $2,000
The Aspiring Educators CREATE Grants, funded by the National Education Association Staff Organization, offer up to $2000 to strengthen the AE Program and foster impactful partnerships. Grants focus on areas such as Educator Quality, Community Engagement, Political Action, and Social Justice. Eligible organizations include state AE chapters, and submissions are accepted three times a year. This initiative encourages aspiring educators to develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Social Justice / Human Rights Education - K through 12 Educational Access & Equity +3 more

NEA Professional Excellence Innovation Grants

National Education Association Staff Organization
Private
United States
US $5,000 - US $30,000
The NEA Professional Excellence Grants aim to empower state and local affiliates by providing funding for innovative practices and resources that enhance the education profession. These grants support initiatives focused on student success, professional development, and the establishment of a quality educator workforce. Typical funding ranges from $3,000 to $25,000, enabling affiliates to implement programs that address specific learning needs and foster community partnerships.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Read Across America State Affiliate Event Grant

National Education Association Staff Organization
Private
United States
Up to US $7,500
The Read Across America State Affiliate Event Grant supports NEA state affiliates in enhancing coordinated events that celebrate diverse reading. This grant encourages proposals aimed at providing students with access to diverse books, addressing challenges such as curriculum bans. Activities may include guest readings, establishing diverse book clubs, and promoting literacy through community engagement. Applications are open only to state affiliates, with a strong emphasis on year-round reading awareness.
Education - K through 12 Literacy Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Ray Charles Foundation Scholarship

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Up to US $10,000
The Ray Charles Foundation Scholarship supports diversity in neurosciences by offering scholarships to third- or fourth-year undergraduate and graduate students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Up to two students will gain valuable experience at Cedars-Sinai, with funding for housing and relocation. Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 18 or older who are passionate about neuroscience and can arrange their accommodations in Los Angeles.
Neuroscience Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease +3 more

Mckesson Foundation Grant: below $25,000

McKesson Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $25,000
The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.
Food Access & Hunger Cancer / Oncology Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid +8 more

International Medical Graduates (IMG) Clinical Preparation Grant

Minnesota Department of Health
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $200,000 - US $700,000
The Clinical Preparation for International Medical Graduates Grant Program, authorized by Minnesota Statutes Section 144.1911, aims to support immigrant international medical graduates (IMGs) in overcoming barriers to practice. This initiative facilitates their integration into Minnesota's healthcare workforce by preparing them for medical residency programs, ultimately enhancing access to primary care in rural and underserved areas. By leveraging IMGs' diverse backgrounds, the program promotes culturally responsive healthcare services across Minnesota.
Medical Education & Professional Training Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Human and Civil Rights Award

Maine Education Association
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Human and Civil Rights Award, presented by the Maine Education Association, honors individuals and groups dedicated to promoting human and civil rights within Maine. This prestigious award recognizes efforts to foster diversity, eliminate discrimination, and enhance educational programs that encourage tolerance. The MEA advocates for equitable opportunities for all students and educators, ensuring their voices are heard and valued. This award is a testament to the commitment towards a more inclusive and respectful educational environment.
Education Civil Rights Social Justice / Human Rights +1 more

Exhibit Award

National Library of Medicine
Federal Government
Arkansas, Kansas +5 more
US $2,000
The Exhibit Award from the National Library of Medicine supports outreach and professional capacity building through conferences and institutional exhibits. Its mission is to enhance access to biomedical information, particularly for underrepresented populations. Eligible applicants include members of network institutions and organizations serving specific states. Projects may focus on health literacy, equity, and diversity initiatives, aiming to improve health outcomes and awareness of health resources.
Library Services Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Medical Education & Professional Training +4 more

Environment Grant Program: Strategy I- Equitable Outdoor Access

The Onion Foundation
Private
Maine
US $5,000 - US $30,000
The Environment Grant Program by The Onion Foundation aims to enhance equitable outdoor access for all Maine residents, particularly in rural areas. This initiative focuses on fostering knowledge and skills to protect the environment rather than funding land acquisitions. Key priorities include supporting land trusts in creating inclusive programs, removing barriers for underserved groups, and building statewide networks to improve outdoor access. The program emphasizes community engagement and environmental stewardship.
Outdoor Recreation Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Outdoor Equity

Growing Research Access for Nationally Transformative Equity and Diversity

National Science Foundation (NSF)
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The Growing Research Access for Nationally Transformative Equity and Diversity program, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to enhance the research enterprise by addressing structural barriers and promoting inclusivity. By focusing on administrative support and innovative strategies, the initiative seeks to empower diverse organizations to participate in research. Proposals should target institution-wide impacts and scalable models that strengthen human capital and research practices, fostering a more equitable and competitive research landscape.
Science Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Minnesota Youth at Work Competitive Grant (MN)

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)
State/Local Government
Minnesota
Up to US $850,000
The Minnesota Youth at Work Competitive Grant supports workforce development for economically disadvantaged youth aged 14-24. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), it prioritizes programs that provide career education, serve under-represented communities, and assist youth with disabilities. Applicants can request up to $850,000 annually, with potential for continued funding based on performance in the first year.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Youth Development & Leadership Youth Services +3 more

Transformative Organizing Grants

Arch Community Fund
Private
United States
US $15,000 - US $30,000
The Transformative Organizing Grants, funded by the Arch Community Fund, aim to bolster grassroots movements advocating for systemic change. These grants, ranging from $15,000 to $25,000, prioritize organizations with 501(c)(3) status and an annual budget under $1 million. The focus is on empowering community leadership through anti-capitalist solutions, promoting intersectionality, and addressing immediate needs while fostering long-term structural change. Eligible groups are encouraged to apply for support in their transformative organizing efforts.
Social Justice / Human Rights Civic Leadership Development Economic Rights, Justice, & Mobility +2 more

Craig H. Neilsen Foundation: Community Support Grants

Craig H. Neilsen Foundation
Corporate
Canada, United States
US $25,000 - US $200,000
The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation offers Community Support Grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with spinal cord injuries (SCI). With a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, these grants support community-driven programs that promote independence and participation. Funding ranges from $25,000 to $200,000 annually for up to two years, addressing regional needs and removing barriers to access. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to empowering all individuals affected by SCI.
Spinal Cord Injuries Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Nonprofit Leadership Incubator

Black United Fund of Oregon
Private
Oregon
US $10,000
The Nonprofit Leadership Grant Program by the Black United Fund of Oregon aims to empower BIPOC-led grassroots organizations through a $10,000 grant and a year-long leadership curriculum. This program focuses on developing essential skills in fund development, operations, and marketing. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve BIPOC communities in Oregon and SW Washington, with a net income below $600,000, ensuring support for those most in need.
Minority Services Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Social Justice / Human Rights +4 more

CTE Grant: Non-Traditional Grants

Arkansas Department of Education
State/Local Government
Arkansas
Unspecified amount
The CTE Grant for Non-Traditional Grants supports Perkins V Programs of Study, focusing on fields where individuals from one gender make up less than 25% of the workforce, such as technology and computer science. Eligible applicants include education cooperatives and single local education agencies (LEAs) qualified for Perkins funding. For detailed career pathways in Arkansas for 2024-2025, refer to the provided link. This initiative aims to promote gender diversity in high-skill occupations.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Education Educational Access & Equity +2 more

Mayo Clinic Community Contributions Program in Florida: Access to Care

Mayo Clinic
Private
Clay County, Florida, Duval County, Florida +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Mayo Clinic Community Contributions Program in Florida aims to enhance community health through strategic partnerships and support for diverse, underserved populations. Focused on enhancing patient care, education, and community engagement, the program invites sponsorship requests for initiatives in human services, education, diversity, and cultural enrichment. By aligning with key health priorities such as access and mental health, Mayo Clinic strives to foster a welcoming and vibrant environment for all.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Civic Engagement & Education +5 more

Story County Community Foundation: Capacity Building Grant

Story County Community Foundation
Corporate
Story County, Iowa
Up to US $5,000
The Story County Community Foundation offers a Capacity Building Grant to enhance the capabilities of nonprofit organizations within Story County. With grants up to $2,500, the foundation aims to foster community betterment by supporting projects that strengthen governance, strategic planning, and long-term sustainability. Applications are accepted from January 1 to August 31, 2024, and must align with the foundation's mission to improve the lives of residents in Story County.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Education +11 more

Diversity Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Diversity grants empower nonprofits to advance equity, inclusion, and representation. The following grants fund programs addressing social justice, workforce diversity, and underrepresented groups, driving systemic change and equitable opportunities.


Search Instrumentl's Diversity Grants Database


Find 138 diversity-focused grant opportunities with $18.6M in funding. Instrumentl supports nonprofits with tools for customized searches, deadline tracking, and funder insights to foster inclusion and equity across sectors.

Grant Insights : Diversity Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

100+ Diversity grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

50 Diversity grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

40 Diversity grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

25 Diversity grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

100+ Diversity grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Diversity grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the second quarter.

Q1
27.7%
Q2
28.1%
Q3
18.5%
Q4
25.8%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Diversity Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $18,750.

$750 $750 Min.
$18,750 $18.8 K Median
$197,794 $197.8 K Average
$3,000,000 $3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Diversity grants are available to nonprofits that focus on racial and social justice, gender equality, disability rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, economic empowerment for marginalized groups, and other diversity-related initiatives. Groups working to advance equity, inclusion, and representation are eligible. Some grants focus on specific populations, such as women-led nonprofits, minority-owned organizations, or initiatives serving low-income communities.

Grants in diversity typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q2, with 28.1% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q3.

Funders provide diversity grants to support programs promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, education, and society at large. These grants tackle long-standing inequalities and create opportunities for historically marginalized groups. Grants also aim to fund programs providing resources to marginalized communities, support initiatives fighting discrimination, and help organizations create more diverse and equitable workplaces, schools, and communities.

On average, grants in diversity provide funding between $750 and $3,000,000, with typical awards falling around $18,750 (median) and $197,794 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Diversity grants for nonprofits are typically funded by private companies (W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Ford Foundation), government agencies, and corporate diversity and inclusion programs (Apple, Nike). Corporate diversity and inclusion initiatives (Google Impact Challenge, Bank of America Charitable Foundation) offer grants as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts.

To improve the chances of being awarded a diversity grant, nonprofits should:

  • Highlight commitment to DEI –Show how your work supports diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. Demonstrate that diversity and inclusion are core values within your nonprofit, not just part of a single project.
  • Show their impact – Use data and real-world examples that demonstrate how your program benefits underrepresented communities.
  • Highlight community involvement – Funders often prioritize projects that actively engage and empower the communities they serve.
  • Build partnerships – Collaborate with other nonprofits, advocacy groups, and local leaders to strengthen your application and expand your impact.

Not sure how much to request in a grant application? Learn how to calculate the right amount with our grant request sizing guide.

Instrumentl simplifies the diversity grant application process by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

Learn how the Los Angeles LGBT Center cut down weekly admin time from 2-4 hours to less than 30 minutes.

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