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

CFSCNY Small Grants Program

The Community Foundation for South Central New York
Private
Broome County, New York, Chenango County, New York +3 more
US $250 - US $5,000
The CFSCNY Small Grants Program supports nonprofits in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Tioga counties. Prioritized projects address critical areas such as equity, housing, and mental health. Grants range from $250 to $5,000 and may cover operational costs, capacity building, or small capital purchases. Applications are accepted quarterly, with the next cycle due on the fourth Monday of January, March, May, and September. This program aims to empower organizations aligned with community needs.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Equitable & Affordable Housing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Capacity Building Grants

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
Up to US $15,000
The Capacity Building Grant program, initiated by the Rhode Island Foundation, offers funding and technical assistance to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. This program aims to address critical community priorities identified through extensive public engagement and research. By focusing on diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, the grant supports various activities, including strategic planning and operational improvements, enhancing the capacity of organizations to better serve their communities.
Civic Engagement & Education Climate Change Resilience & Equity Equitable & Affordable Housing +3 more

Arts & Youth Grant Program

California Arts Council
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $25,000
The Arts & Youth Grant Program by the California Arts Council aims to provide equitable access to arts education and experiences for young people aged 0-25 across California. This initiative addresses barriers related to socio-economic status, geographic isolation, and identity, ensuring underserved communities receive support. The program encourages participation in culturally responsive arts activities, fostering community connections and creative engagement, ultimately nurturing culturally literate citizens.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

AISES ARDC Scholarship

American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES)
Association/Society
Canada, Melanesia +3 more
US $5,000
The AISES ARDC Scholarship provides $5,000 annually to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related fields. Funded by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), this scholarship aims to support Indigenous students who are current AISES members and enrolled full-time. Eligible applicants must also be citizens or descendants of recognized Indigenous tribes, ensuring a commitment to enhancing representation in STEM education and careers.
Education - Higher Education Computer Science & Engineering Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +5 more

AISES Stellantis Scholarship

American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES)
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $20,000
The AISES Stellantis Scholarship aims to enhance the representation of Indigenous peoples in STEM fields. Funded by Stellantis, this scholarship offers $20,000 for full-time students enrolled in colleges with Mopar Career Automotive Programs. Eligible candidates must be current AISES members and either enrolled citizens or descendants of recognized Indigenous groups. The program not only supports education but also fosters a diverse and inclusive workforce within the automotive industry.
Education - Higher Education Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Educational Access & Equity +7 more

Arts Education and Public Engagement Grants (For organizations or projects with budgets up to $50,000)

The Onion Foundation
Private
Maine
Up to US $22,500
The Arts Education and Public Engagement Grants by The Onion Foundation support organizations in Maine with budgets up to $50,000. These grants focus on enhancing arts education and public engagement, prioritizing programs that serve rural communities and address systemic inequities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities and governmental units. Funding is available for general operating support and project grants, aimed at fostering creativity and community connection through arts initiatives.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Minority Services +5 more

STRIDE Mentored Research Scholarship (SMRS)

The American Occupational Therapy Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The STRIDE Mentored Research Scholarship (SMRS), offered by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF), provides funding up to $10,000 for occupational therapy graduates and clinicians from underrepresented backgrounds to enhance their research representation. This scholarship supports participation in mentored research experiences at different institutions, focusing on building critical skills in research methods. By pairing awardees with experienced mentors, the program aims to foster diversity and inclusion within the occupational therapy field.
Physical Therapy Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Occupational Therapy

Teri Rogers Screenwriting Award

ArtsKC Regional Arts Council
State/Local Government
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Kansas +11 more
US $1,000
The Teri Rogers Screenwriting Award, presented by ArtsKC, honors the legacy of Teri Rogers by providing a $1,000 grant for a full feature or pilot script. This award prioritizes scripts that showcase Kansas City and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Eligible applicants must be adults residing in the Kansas City metropolitan area and submit original work. Last year, only one out of eight applicants received the award, emphasizing the competitive nature of this opportunity.
Community Culture & Heritage Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Film

Teri Rogers Filmmakers Grants

ArtsKC Regional Arts Council
State/Local Government
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Kansas +10 more
US $10,000
The Teri Rogers Filmmakers Grants, presented by ArtsKC and the Kansas City Film Office, honor the legacy of Teri Rogers by supporting early-career female and gender nonconforming filmmakers. Each grant provides $10,000 for production or post-production of new short films, alongside valuable resources like memberships and mentorship. The program prioritizes projects that reflect diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as those highlighting Kansas City as a character in the narrative.
Women & Girl Services LGBTQIA+ Services Film +2 more

Kauffman Foundation: Project Grant

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
More than US $250,000
The Kauffman Foundation's Project Grant aims to empower organizations to design and implement impactful multiyear projects that enhance economic mobility in the Kansas City region. Funding of $250,000 or more per year is available for projects focusing on education, skills development, and community engagement. While primarily serving the Kansas City area, grants may also be awarded to organizations from outside the region that can demonstrate a significant impact on local communities.
Entrepreneurship Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Career / College Preparation +5 more

Collective Impact Grant - Planning

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
Up to US $500,000
The Kauffman Foundation's Collective Impact Grant - Planning supports coalitions of high-capacity organizations aiming for systems-level change in the Kansas City area. Grants of up to $500,000 are available to facilitate nine months of planning for collaborative initiatives. Eligible applicants include both established and emerging coalitions, focusing on education, employer connections, and equitable access. This initiative aligns with the foundation's strategic priorities to enhance economic mobility for Kansas Citians.
Entrepreneurship Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Career / College Preparation +5 more

Kauffman Foundation: Capacity Building Grant

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
US $100,000 - US $250,000
The Kauffman Foundation's Capacity Building Grant aims to enhance the organizational effectiveness of nonprofits through leadership development, strategic planning, and technology improvements. With funding between $100,000 and $250,000, this grant focuses on strengthening internal capacities rather than supporting specific programs. Organizations aligned with the foundation's strategic priorities and those demonstrating a capacity gap are encouraged to apply for these short-term, impactful grants.
Entrepreneurship Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Career / College Preparation +6 more

4Culture: Gallery 4Culture Grant

4Culture
State/Local Government
King County, Washington
US $2,000
The Gallery 4Culture Grant supports innovative visual artists and collaborative teams based in King County, WA, offering a $2,000 honorarium and curatorial guidance for selected exhibitions. With a focus on underrepresented art forms, the grant encourages proposals for month-long shows in a prominent Seattle venue. Artists are responsible for installation and sales, with an emphasis on site-responsive artwork. Emerging artists are particularly encouraged to apply for this valuable opportunity.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Media Arts Visual Arts +3 more

Building for Equity: Anchoring Community Grant

4Culture
State/Local Government
King County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The Building for Equity - Anchoring Community Grant provides crucial funding to support equitable development projects in King's County. It aims to assist organizations in purchasing, renovating, or constructing spaces that enhance cultural experiences. Eligible applicants are those managing project budgets of $10 million or more, ensuring impactful investments in community infrastructure and cultural enrichment.
Community Culture & Heritage Museums & Cultural Institutions Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Building for Equity: Native Cultural Facilities Grant

4Culture
State/Local Government
King County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The Building for Equity: Native Cultural Facilities Grant, offered by 4Culture, supports initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Native cultures through funding for land acquisition, renovations, and new constructions. Eligible applicants include nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in King County and federally recognized Tribal governments. This grant emphasizes the importance of long-term site control and a two-year operating history, ensuring that funded projects contribute to the vitality of Native cultural expressions.
Museums & Cultural Institutions Community Culture & Heritage Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Medieval Academy: Inclusivity and Diversity Travel Grant

Medieval Academy Of America
Private
Middlesex County, Massachusetts
US $500
The Medieval Academy of America offers the Inclusivity and Diversity Travel Grant, providing $500 to support a participant presenting on diversity and inclusivity in the Middle Ages at its Annual Meeting. This grant prioritizes student, junior, adjunct, and unaffiliated scholars, promoting engagement and research in medieval studies. Applicants must be members in good standing to qualify, ensuring a focus on fostering inclusivity within the academic community.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion European History

ASSA Travel Grants

American Economic Association
Private
United States
Up to US $1,000
The URM Travel Grants, established by the American Economic Association (AEA), support junior faculty from underrepresented minority groups in economics, including American Indian, Black, Hispanic, and Pacific Islander individuals. These grants cover up to $1,000 in expenses for meals, travel, lodging, and conference registration to attend the annual ASSA meetings. The initiative aims to enhance the professional development of URM junior faculty and promote diversity within the economics field.
Economics Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Professional Pipeline Grant - American College of Bankruptcy (formerly Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Grant)

American College Of Bankruptcy Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $15,000
The Professional Pipeline Grant from the American College of Bankruptcy Foundation aims to foster diversity in the insolvency industry. This grant supports legal services organizations working to create an inclusive pipeline for students and professionals facing barriers to success. With grants typically capped at $10,000, the Foundation may offer higher amounts for innovative new programs. Applicants are encouraged to utilize available resources to enhance their proposals and maximize funding opportunities.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Law Financial Literacy +1 more

Funds for Whatcom County: Health & Wellness Grants

Whatcom Community Foundation
Private
Whatcom County, Washington
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Whatcom Community Foundation is offering Health & Wellness Grants to local nonprofits in Whatcom County. These mini grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, aim to tackle staff fatigue and burnout. Eligible organizations can propose various initiatives including wellness programs, ergonomic improvements, and staff retreats. The funding is designed to enhance physical and mental health, foster a positive work environment, and ultimately improve job satisfaction among nonprofit teams.
Wellness & Healthy Living Art & Culture Community Services +33 more

Morrison County Area Foundation Grant

Initiative Foundation
Private
Morrison County, Minnesota
Up to US $2,000
The Morrison County Area Foundation Grant, supported by the Initiative Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for Morrison County residents. It prioritizes funding for education, health initiatives, and community development programs that foster inclusivity. Grants can go up to $2,000, covering 50% of project costs. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, local governments, and community groups that directly benefit the community, while avoiding support for individual or business grants.
Community Development & Revitalization Education Wellness & Healthy Living +3 more

Delano Area Community Foundation Grant

Initiative Foundation
Private
Wright County, Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The Delano Area Community Foundation Grant aims to strengthen communities through local philanthropy. Established in 2014, it focuses on creating a sustainable funding source for community needs. The foundation invites 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government units, and public schools in the Delano area to apply for grants that enhance education, promote development, and enrich cultural activities. With over $10,000 awarded since its inception, it fosters community engagement and supports impactful projects.
Community Development & Revitalization Education Art & Culture +1 more

Jeanne D'Arc Credit Union Donation Request

Jeanne Darc Credit Union
Private
Essex County, Massachusetts, Hillsborough County, New Hampshire +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Jeanne D'Arc Credit Union Donation Request aims to support local non-profits that enhance community well-being through initiatives focused on health, education, and economic revitalization. The foundation encourages applications for event sponsorships and charitable projects that align with their mission of fostering vibrant neighborhoods and providing essential services. Interested organizations should submit requests at least six weeks before their events for timely consideration.
Economic Services & Development Health Care Access & Delivery Financial Literacy +7 more

WNDB: Walter Dean Myers Grant Program

We Need Diverse Books
Private
United States
US $2,000
The Walter Dean Myers Grant Program, established by We Need Diverse Books, offers $2,000 grants to promising unpublished diverse writers and illustrators. Aimed at enhancing their craft and supporting traditional publication pursuits, this initiative has awarded over 70 grants since 2015, resulting in nearly 60 published books and numerous literary accolades. Applicants must identify as diverse and be U.S. residents, working towards a career in children's literature.
Writing & Literature Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

WNDB: Internship Grant Program

We Need Diverse Books
Private
United States
US $3,000
The WNDB Internship Grant Program aims to support diverse students pursuing careers in publishing by offering 16 grants of $3,000 each. Given the high living costs in major publishing hubs, this program helps alleviate financial barriers, enabling interns to gain vital industry experience. Grantees are required to attend various events during the summer, including training and networking opportunities. By fostering diversity, WNDB contributes to a more inclusive publishing landscape, having supported over 140 students since its inception.
Writing & Literature Apprenticeship & Internship Programs Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Innovative Bridge and Transition Grant (IL)

Illinois Community College Board
State/Local Government
Illinois
US $50,000 - US $375,000
The Innovative Bridge and Transition Grant (IL) aims to enhance educational and employment pathways for individuals aged 16 and older. It supports innovative programs that improve transitions to postsecondary education and employment, fostering equity and diversity. Eligible applicants include educational organizations and community-based groups. With a funding ceiling of $375,000, this grant encourages collaborative efforts to serve underrepresented populations and individuals with disabilities, ultimately preparing them for high-skill, high-wage careers.
Disability Care & Services Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Career / College Preparation +5 more

Virginia Natural Gas Charitable Giving: Community Enrichment

Virginia Natural Gas
Corporate
Charles City County, Virginia, Chesapeake City, Virginia +17 more
Unspecified amount
The Virginia Natural Gas Charitable Giving program supports community enrichment and social justice initiatives within its service areas. It prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations that foster cultural, civic, and intellectual growth, emphasizing social equity. Grants are not available for individuals, religious organizations, or private K-12 schools. Applications are most likely to be awarded to organizations aligned with one of the five focus areas set by Virginia Natural Gas, ensuring a significant positive impact on the communities served.
Community Culture & Heritage Civic Engagement & Education Civic Leadership Development +1 more

Nicor Gas: Pillar Grants - Community and Culture

Nicor Gas
Corporate
Adams County, Illinois, Boone County, Illinois +32 more
Up to US $5,000
Nicor Gas offers Pillar Grants for Community Enrichment, focusing on enhancing the vitality and livability of neighborhoods within its service area. Grants support nonprofit organizations engaged in cultural, community service, and stabilization efforts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that contribute to mental health, social services, and civic development. Funding is capped at $5,000, and applications are encouraged from those addressing significant community needs.
Community Culture & Heritage Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Theater +12 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.

Filter Diversity Grants for Nonprofits

Browse Diversity Grants for Nonprofits by Location

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming American Samoa District of Columbia Guam Northern Mariana Islands Puerto Rico Virgin Islands Africa Haiti

Related Grant Funding Focus Areas

Browse Other Social Justice & Equity Grants

Grants for BIPOC Grants for Environmental Justice Grants for Hispanic Nonprofits Grants for Human Trafficking Nonprofits Grants for Immigration Nonprofits Grants for LGBTQ Nonprofits Grants for Minorities Grants for Native Americans Grants for Nonprofits Serving Disabled Grants for Women Human Rights Grants Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Grants Restorative Justice Grants Social Justice Grants Women & Girls Services Grants

Browse More Local Grants

Local Grants by City

Grants for Environmental Justice in Flagstaff, AZ Grants for LGBTQ Nonprofits in Bismarck, ND Social Justice Grants in Phoenix, AZ Grants for Hispanic Nonprofits in Providence, RI Grants for BIPOC in Cheyenne, WY Grants for Environmental Justice in Gainesville, FL Human Rights Grants in St. Petersburg, FL Grants for Hispanic Nonprofits in Visalia, CA Grants for BIPOC in Clarksville, TN Grants for BIPOC in Palm Bay, FL Social Justice Grants in Dover, DE Grants for Minorities in Billings, MT