Best Grants for Minorities

Overview

In 1966, Mr. Bernard H. Jones founded Urban Youth Action (UYA), a youth support program that provided developmental and social growth opportunities to Black inner-city youth in Pittsburgh. Urban Youth Action offered daily life studies and other programs to help young people transition from adolescence to adulthood. Participants learned the importance of doing well in school and working hard to achieve their dreams. They also explored ideas about family and community. These young people were admonished to take pride in everything they did. In addition, Urban Youth Action taught them fundamental skills to succeed, such as how to dress and prepare for an interview, balance a checkbook, and plan and run a business. They were exposed to business and civic leaders who imparted knowledge to them that would have otherwise been unavailable.

After years of incredible, transformative work with Black inner-city youth, the Urban Youth Action Program stopped offering formal programming around 2012. However, the work and legacy of Urban Youth Action will continue through annual grant support and youth flex funds provided to organizations that exemplify the vision of Urban Youth Action.

Urban Youth Action Flex Grant

The Urban Youth Action Flex Grant supports eligible applicants who provide consistent programming or services in youth education and enrichment.

The fund is intended to assist Black middle or high school students with expenses related to enrichment activities or their education, career or entrepreneurial development. Eligible use of grant funds includes, but is not limited, to field trips, bus fares, school supplies, technology, out-of-school time activities and traveling expenses. 

• Depending upon fund availability, grant amounts will be up to $1,000 per applicant; 
• Only one application per applicant per year can be submitted; 
• Funds may be used to support more than one youth;
• Funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Annual support is not guaranteed. 

The Urban Youth Action Grant, initiated by the Poise Foundation, offers funding to 501(c)(3) organizations that provide educational and enrichment services specifically for Black middle and high school students. With grants up to $10,000 available, eligible applicants can support general operations or specific programs. The grant aims to continue the legacy of Urban Youth Action, which historically empowered youth through skill-building and mentorship, fostering their growth into successful adults.

The TFish Fund Grant aims to alleviate poverty in East Asia by empowering small but impactful NGOs to achieve sustainability and transparency. Founded in 2011, the Transparent Fish Fund partners with select organizations that focus on poverty alleviation. By providing financial aid, capacity building, and promoting accountability, the fund bridges the gap between Western donors and local NGOs, fostering a philanthropic spirit while addressing the complex social issues faced in the region.

The Indian Education Formula Grants, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, aim to support the educational needs of American Indian and Alaska Native students. This program assists local educational agencies, tribes, and organizations in meeting state academic standards through various initiatives like after-school programs, tutoring, and enrichment activities. Eligible entities include certain local educational agencies, schools funded by the Bureau of Indian Education, and Indian organizations. Grants aim to supplement regular educational programs.

The Latino Giving Circle Grant Program, facilitated by the Rochester Area Community Foundation, aims to empower the Latino community in the greater Rochester area. This initiative supports 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to reducing disparities and enhancing quality of life for Latinos. Preference is given to projects in Monroe County that align with the program's mission, fostering collaboration and meaningful impact within the community.

Who We Are

Our Mission

UNCF envisions a nation where all Americans have equal access to a college education that prepares them for rich intellectual lives, competitive and fulfilling careers, engaged citizenship and service to our nation.

UNCF’s mission is to build a robust and nationally-recognized pipeline of under-represented students who, because of UNCF support, become highly-qualified college graduates and to ensure that our network of member institutions is a respected model of best practice in moving students to and through college.

2026-2027 Lincoln Financial Scholars Program

The Lincoln Financial Scholars program provides college students with professional development and scholarship assistance to help prepare them for internships and early career opportunities

The Experience

Through engagement in live webinars and online learning management system, scholars will receive training in the following key areas to prepare for internship opportunities and early career opportunities

• Exploring the True Colors Personality Lens 
• Exploring Transferable Skills: Emotional Intelligence 
• Cultivation of Professional Skills: Networking - Branding - Managing Up 
• Financial Wellness

Each eligible student will be awarded a one-time, scholarship award of up to $3,000.

The IDEA Grant aims to address funding gaps for Black-led nonprofits in Frederick County, as identified by the Frederick Funders Data Project. The Ausherman Family Foundation is committed to enhancing the sustainability and impact of these organizations through targeted support, including coaching and mentorship. By focusing on inclusion, diversity, and equity, the grant seeks to empower Black-led initiatives, ensuring equitable access to resources and fostering long-term community vitality.

Community Action Fund

A grant for Indigenous frontline organizations, groups, and individuals for direct action initiatives.

The Community Action Fund (CAF) grants support non-violent direct actions and organizing efforts that are often urgent and time sensitive. CAF prioritizes frontline, grassroots and community-based efforts that defend Indigenous peoples rights, communities and Nations.

Community Action Fund Intent

This grant supports Indigenous frontline, grassroots, community-based groups and organizations, Tribes, communities and villages, and individuals leading non-violent direct action or movement-building work in their effort to DEFEND Indigenous People’s rights, and protect their land, air, water, and natural resources.

The MCTS Legacy Scholarship Program, established by the Mobile County Training School Alumni Association in collaboration with UNCF, offers ten $3,500 need-based scholarships for MCTS attendees or their descendants. This initiative aims to support educational pursuits among students connected to MCTS, enhancing access to higher education. Recipients will be notified within eight weeks after the application deadline, promoting academic success and community engagement. The program reflects UNCF's commitment to empowering minority students and fostering leadership.

The Visionaries for Change Grant, established by Black leaders in Hampton Roads, aims to support Black-serving 501(c)(3) nonprofits that enhance opportunities in Black communities. Focused on economic empowerment, the grant encourages initiatives that strengthen local businesses and promote financial literacy. Grants typically average $5,000 and organizations are required to meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring support is directed to those in need. This initiative fosters community growth and resilience in an underserved region.

FY27 Healthy Communities Fund (HCF) Grants Program

Program Summary:

The Asian American Health Initiative, part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Office of Grants Management (OGM) are soliciting grant applications for the County’s FY2027 Healthy Communities Fund Grants Program from qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. This grant program seeks qualified service providers to administer culturally and linguistically appropriate programs and services that improve the health and wellness of Montgomery County residents with a particular focus on Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. If submitting a funding request above $50,000, applicants are encouraged to collaborate with other community organizations to ensure a coordinated, community-driven approach that maximizes resources.

The Healthy Communities Fund will award grants of up to $250,000 after a thorough competitive review of all completed proposals. Community organizations of all sizes are encouraged to apply as there is no minimum amount to request for funding. $1,600,000 is available in funding. Organizations requesting $50,000 or less will complete a shorter application to reduce administrative burden and promote equitable access, while those requesting more than $50,000 will complete the full set of application materials. This approach supports equal opportunity by ensuring that smaller organizations—often with fewer resources—can participate without facing disproportionate barriers. Please ensure that completed attachments align with the application’s funding request.

The amount of funding awarded will be based on the budget justification, alignment of the budget with the proposed program, and organizational capacity to perform the proposed program. The award amount may differ from the funding amount requested.

Funded programs must emphasize collaborative, evidence-based approaches and focus on culturally and linguistically appropriate services in at least one of the following categories:

• Health and Social Support Services – Provide linguistically accessible and culturally appropriate services that improve health and/or enhance access to health or social support services
• Mental and Behavioral Health – Activities aimed at reducing stigma around seeking behavioral health services and encourage people to seek treatment
• Senior Wellness – Provide linguistically accessible information and social support to limited English Proficient seniors.

 Cherokee Nation Nursing and Allied Health Scholarship

The Cherokee Nation Nursing and Allied Health Scholarship is to provide financial assistance to Cherokee Nation citizens pursuing college degrees in nursing and health care fields to support their readiness to contribute to and grow within the Cherokee Nation reservation labor market. 

The San Antonio Area African American Community Fund Grant, supported by the San Antonio Area Foundation, aims to empower nonprofits that serve the African American community in Bexar County. With up to $50,000 available, the fund focuses on arts, health, education, and social welfare initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and serve a predominantly African American population. This grant fosters a legacy of philanthropy and addresses critical community needs through impactful programs.

The CIELO Fund at the Inland Empire Community Foundation aims to uplift and invest in Latino-led initiatives in the Inland Empire. Launched in 2022, it reflects the region's growing Latino majority and addresses disparities in areas such as education, health, and economic mobility. The fund emphasizes equitable growth and community collaboration to foster a vibrant future for all residents. With a focus on leadership development and environmental equity, it champions the aspirations of the Latino community while tackling pressing local challenges.

The WE Communications Scholarship, established by Waggener Edstrom Worldwide in partnership with UNCF, aims to support female undergraduate students in STEM fields at UNCF Member Institutions. With a focus on academic excellence, applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate financial need. This initiative reflects UNCF's commitment to fostering minority education and empowering future leaders, contributing to the overall rise in graduation rates among African American students.

The Stephen Francis McNally Scholarship Fund offers need-based scholarships up to $4,250 for undergraduate students at UNCF-member institutions or accredited HBCUs. Established in honor of Steve McNally, this fund aims to support students facing financial challenges that hinder their college completion. With over 70% graduation rates for recipients, the scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also empowers students to thrive and succeed in their academic pursuits.

The Johnson & Johnson Scholarship offers $5,000 merit-based scholarships to New Jersey residents pursuing degrees in nursing or health sciences. Applicants must be juniors or seniors enrolled at accredited UNCF Member Institutions or other four-year institutions, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative supports the mission of UNCF, which has raised over $6 billion to help minority students thrive in higher education, advocating for the importance of education and community engagement.

The CDC is providing supplemental funding to 34 American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes and organizations through the Strengthening Public Health Systems and Services initiative. Eligible recipients can apply for new project plans for FY 2027. This funding aims to align measurable outcomes with the Healthy People 2030 goals, enhancing public health services and systems in Indian Country.

The African-American Community Fund aims to enhance African-American participation in philanthropy, supporting diverse non-profits in the Dayton/Greater Miami Valley region. Grants typically range from $500 to $1,000, focusing on initiatives that promote community resource efficiency, coordination among organizations, and volunteer involvement. Eligible nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities with a diversity policy. The fund does not support general operations, individual pursuits, or endowments.

The Juanita Sánchez Community Fund, established in 1992, supports Rhode Island's Latino community by providing grants to nonprofits that enhance the lives of Latinos. Grants typically range from $500 to $1,500 and can fund both new projects and improvements to ongoing initiatives. While translation and interpretation requests are deprioritized, projects serving the Latino community may be considered, even if based outside the state. Renewed support for the same project is rarely given.

Hispanic Heritage Foundation

Established by the White House in 1988, the Hispanic Heritage Foundation—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—continues to advance its mission through award winning programs that adapt to the needs, aspirations, and vision of our community while delivering a strong value proposition for the country.

HHF’s mission and programs have been recognized by The White House, US Congress, Fortune 500 Companies, US Army, other nonprofits, and even the Government of Mexico, in five areas of focus: education, workforce development, societal impact, and leadership, with culture serving as the cornerstone of its mission.

Youth Awards

The 28-year-old Youth Awards have recognized thousands of high school students from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C., for their achievements in the classroom, community, and focus on career paths in STEM fields, entrepreneurship, media, public service, and other categories.

Gold, Silver, and Bronze recipients are selected in each category and receive a one-time innovation grant to fund their college education or support a community service effort addressing a social issue. Additionally, one national awardee is selected in each category.

Once selected, recipients are celebrated in virtual ceremonies and become part of the LOFT (Leaders On Fast Track) Network, a collective of 300,000+ students and young professionals with access to mentors, resources, networking opportunities, workshops, symposia, summits, internships, and full-time positions with Fortune 500 companies.

The Long Foundation Grant aims to support Texas Hispanic youths by addressing the high school dropout rate and enhancing their economic and social potential. Through annual grants to nonprofits and educational institutions, the foundation seeks programs that promote caring adult relationships, safe spaces, health, and marketable skills. With a focus on the Austin Metropolitan area, at least 75% of beneficiaries must be Hispanic, ensuring inclusivity while prioritizing this demographic's needs.

The Providence Shelter Grant aims to support programs that address educational disparities and mental health issues among children of African descent in Rhode Island. With a focus on healing from pandemic-related trauma, this grant prioritizes organizations led by people of color and those serving urban youth. Funding is directed towards impactful services rather than equipment, emphasizing the need for cultural, educational, and social opportunities for children up to 18 years old.

The Strategic Initiative Grants: BPI Advancing Equity in Education program by the Winston-Salem Foundation aims to tackle systemic inequities in education that affect Black and brown communities. By supporting programs that ensure equitable access to resources, it prioritizes initiatives designed by and for Black students. This grant program invites proposals that focus on improving educational experiences, including remote learning access and implicit bias training for educators, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

The Native American Library Services Basic Grant (NAB) aims to enhance library services for Native Communities. By supporting the acquisition of materials, programming, and staff training, the program empowers Tribal libraries to adapt to evolving information needs. This initiative fosters knowledge centers that contribute to community wellness and cultural preservation. Through targeted project activities, the NAB program ensures that libraries effectively meet their users' diverse needs, promoting accessibility and engagement across the nation.

The Sabbatical Grant by Rasmuson Foundation offers tribal and nonprofit leaders a unique opportunity for personal renewal through a fully funded sabbatical of 90 to 120 days. With grants of $50,000, the program supports leaders in stepping away from their roles to prevent burnout, gain insights, and rejuvenate their energy. This initiative encourages long-term sustainability in leadership and allows organizations to nurture emerging talent while leaders focus on personal enrichment and reflection.

Ujima Legacy Fund Grants

Ujima Legacy Fund is a collective giving circle created by and for civic minded African American men. The fund supports projects in the Richmond region that will promote equitable outcomes among youth and young adults, ages 12 to 21 years, with emphasis on Black/African American youth.

Ujima Legacy Fund seeks to support nonprofits that empower youth through education related initiatives.

Our Priorities

Education:

• After-school and out-of-school time programming
• Literacy
• Technology Training 
• Mentoring & Tutoring

 Empowering Youth:

• Entrepreneurship
• Financial Literacy
• Career development
• College preparation