Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Your Grant Operating System Has Leveled Up.
Wed, Nov 4 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

Best Diversity Grants for Nonprofits

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

501

Available grants

$25.8M

Total funding

$10K

Median grant

501 grants
$25.8M total
$10K median

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

501 Results based on applied filters

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Professional Development Award Region 3 Network

National Library of Medicine
Federal Government
Arkansas, Kansas +5 more
US $2,000
The Professional Development Award aims to enhance the capabilities of individuals affiliated with Region 3 Network Member institutions. This funding supports attendance at seminars and workshops focused on data science and health information access, promoting improved health literacy and equity. The NNLM encourages projects that empower underrepresented communities and healthcare professionals. Applications are open until funds are exhausted or April 1, 2024, with a singular award per annual performance cycle.
Preventative Healthcare Library Services Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +5 more

Professional Development Award

National Library of Medicine
Federal Government
Arkansas, Kansas +5 more
US $2,000
The Virtual Professional Development Award aims to enhance professional knowledge and experience for individuals in Region 3 Network Member institutions. By funding attendance at seminars and conferences related to data science and health information access, this award supports the goals of the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM). It seeks to improve health information access for healthcare providers and consumers, particularly among underrepresented populations, fostering health equity and literacy.
Health & Medicine Preventative Healthcare Library Services +5 more

HF Sinclair Community Investment Grants

HF Sinclair Corporation
Corporate
Butler County, Kansas, Butler County, Pennsylvania +10 more
Unspecified amount
HF Sinclair Community Investment Grants support organizations focused on critical areas like STEM education, environmental sustainability, and urgent community needs. As a corporate citizen, HF Sinclair is committed to giving back to the communities it operates in, ensuring its contributions align with its core values of safety, integrity, teamwork, ownership, and inclusion. Grants are not awarded to organizations that promote specific religious beliefs, engage in discrimination, or operate outside of ethical guidelines.
STEM / STEAM Education Military & Veterans Services Environment +2 more

Nantucket Fund Grants

Community Foundation for Nantucket
Private
Nantucket County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Nantucket Fund Grants, offered by the Community Foundation for Nantucket, aim to enhance the quality of life for island residents through targeted community projects. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations, municipalities, and religious entities addressing critical needs such as mental health, housing, and senior well-being. The initiative encourages innovative, sustainable solutions that leverage additional support while fostering collaboration among local nonprofits to maximize impact and minimize service duplication.
Intellectual / Developmental Disabilities Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Real Estate & Housing +4 more

Flexible Funding

Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts
Private
Franklin County, Massachusetts, Hampden County, Massachusetts +1 more
Up to US $40,000
Flexible Funding provides unrestricted financial support to organizations, allowing them to focus on their mission. The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts prioritizes smaller, community-rooted organizations, especially in Springfield and Franklin County. Grants up to $30,000 are available, with a total of $3.4 million planned for distribution. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsorship and an operating budget under $10 million, ensuring support for those who truly benefit the local community.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Early Childhood Development Educational Access & Equity +3 more

Fund for Santa Barbara Grants - Movement Building Grant

The Fund for Santa Barbara
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
Up to US $10,000
The Fund for Santa Barbara Grants - Movement Building Grant aims to foster progressive change by empowering grassroots organizations in Santa Barbara County. By focusing on Economic, Environmental, Political, Racial, and Social Justice, the grant supports initiatives that dismantle systemic oppression. It prioritizes funding for groups that engage marginalized communities and promote self-determination. Eligible organizations must align with the FUND's mission and operational guidelines, ensuring impactful contributions to social change.
Social Justice / Human Rights Environmental Justice & Advocacy Peacebuilding +5 more

Duke Energy: South Carolina: Local Impact Grants

The Duke Energy Foundation
Corporate
Abbeville County, South Carolina, Anderson County, South Carolina +27 more
Up to US $20,000
The Duke Energy Foundation offers Local Impact Grants to enhance the quality of life in South Carolina. Grants up to $20,000 support initiatives in vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and opportunity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must serve communities powered by Duke Energy and meet specific tax-exempt criteria. The foundation prioritizes projects that promote environmental sustainability and community development, while emphasizing non-discrimination and measurable impact.
Economic Services & Development Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Climate Change Resilience & Equity +6 more

Duke Energy: Florida: Local Impact Grants

The Duke Energy Foundation
Corporate
Alachua County, Florida, Bay County, Florida +30 more
Up to US $20,000
The Duke Energy Foundation offers Local Impact Grants of up to $20,000 aimed at promoting vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and justice, equity, and inclusion. These grants are available year-round and support workforce development, community revitalization, and environmental projects. Eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and serve communities in Florida counties served by Duke Energy, while ensuring non-discrimination and measurable community impact.
Economic Services & Development Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Climate Change Resilience & Equity +6 more

Duke Energy: Ohio: Local Impact Grants

The Duke Energy Foundation
Corporate
Adams County, Ohio, Brown County, Ohio +8 more
Up to US $20,000
The Duke Energy Foundation offers Local Impact Grants of up to $20,000 to support initiatives in vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and equity. These grants aim to enhance community well-being through workforce development, environmental projects, and inclusive programs. Open year-round, the grants prioritize organizations serving Ohio counties where Duke Energy operates, fostering sustainable growth and opportunity for underrepresented populations.
Economic Services & Development Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Climate Change Resilience & Equity +6 more

Duke Energy: Kentucky: Local Impact Grants

The Duke Energy Foundation
Corporate
Boone County, Kentucky, Bracken County, Kentucky +5 more
Up to US $20,000
The Duke Energy Foundation offers Local Impact Grants of up to $20,000 aimed at supporting vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and justice, equity, and inclusion in Kentucky. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve Duke Energy communities, focusing on workforce development, environmental projects, and initiatives promoting access to opportunities for underserved populations. The grants are open year-round, encouraging impactful projects that foster community improvement and sustainability.
Economic Services & Development Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Climate Change Resilience & Equity +6 more

1954 Project - Luminary Award

Cleveland Avenue Foundation for Education Group
Corporate
United States
US $1,000,000
The 1954 Project - Luminary Award seeks visionary nonprofit leaders dedicated to advancing educational equity for Black students. Awardees receive $1 million in funding, leadership development, and networking opportunities. The selection prioritizes leaders demonstrating strategic vision, community commitment, adaptability, and collaborative spirit. Applicants must align with one of three impact areas: Innovation in Teaching and Learning, Diversity in Education, or Pathways to Economic Mobility, ensuring their initiatives foster systemic change and uplift marginalized communities.
Educational Access & Equity Education System Policy & Reform Teacher Development & Training +3 more

C & B Better Intiative Grant

Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque
Private
Dubuque County, Iowa
US $25,000
The C & B Better Initiative Grant, led by Cottingham & Butler employees, aims to support community needs aligned with the company's mission. This year, they will award $25,000 to one nonprofit and additional awards of $15,000 and $10,000 to two other organizations. The grant is open only to nonprofits serving Dubuque County, emphasizing health, education, and community development to foster a culture of philanthropy and positive impact.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Homelessness Services +16 more

GreenState Foundation Grant

Greenstate Foundation
Private
Johnson County, Iowa
Unspecified amount
The GreenState Foundation Grant aims to empower communities through initiatives focused on Financial Education, Housing, and Children's Health. By supporting local 501(c)3 nonprofits, the foundation seeks to enhance financial literacy, provide affordable housing solutions, and promote the health of youth. With a commitment to improving quality of life, the foundation invites grant applications that align with its mission, emphasizing community-driven projects that foster sustainable growth and well-being for all.
Financial Literacy Equitable & Affordable Housing Environment +5 more

ACLS Digital Justice Seed Grants

American Council of Learned Societies
Association/Society
United States
US $10,000 - US $25,000
The ACLS Digital Justice Seed Grants support projects that enhance equity and justice in digital scholarship, particularly focusing on marginalized communities. Funded by The Mellon Foundation, these grants foster innovative methodologies and resource sharing across disciplines. By promoting inclusivity in digital humanities, the program empowers scholars to engage with under-studied materials and develop sustainable practices, ensuring broader access to digital tools and expertise for impactful research initiatives.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Social Justice / Human Rights Data Science & Digital Information Systems +2 more

ACLS Digital Justice Development Grants

American Council of Learned Societies
Association/Society
United States
US $50,000 - US $100,000
The ACLS Digital Justice Development Grants, funded by The Mellon Foundation, aim to enhance justice and equity in digital scholarly practice. These grants support projects that engage with historically marginalized communities, including people of color and those with disabilities. By providing resources and coaching for sustainable project development, the program promotes inclusion in the digital humanities, ensuring that diverse voices contribute to shaping digital knowledge and cultural heritage.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Social Justice / Human Rights Data Science & Digital Information Systems +2 more

Consultant Support Grant Program

Community Foundation for Greater New Haven
Private
Fairfield County, Connecticut, New Haven County, Connecticut
Up to US $2,000
The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven offers the Consultant Support Grant Program to enhance organizational capacity in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Nonprofits in the Foundation's twenty-town service area can receive up to $2,000 for consultancy services. This short-term support fosters collaboration and equity within organizations, allowing for workshops and training. Eligible organizations can only apply once in a 12-month period, ensuring broad access to resources for community enhancement.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion All fields of work

Norfolk Southern Grant

Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Private
Chesapeake City, Virginia, Franklin City, Virginia +5 more
US $5,000 - US $100,000
The Norfolk Southern Grant aims to support nonprofits in the Hampton Roads community, distributing $1 million each year for five years. It focuses on critical areas such as education, community enrichment, and sustainability, encouraging organizations to address issues like food insecurity, homelessness, and workforce development. Eligible nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) organizations in good standing, operational since at least January 1, 2023, and serving the South Hampton Roads area. This grant fosters impactful community initiatives.
Education Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention Food Access & Hunger +13 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.