Best Grants for Minorities

The Quintin E. Primo Jr. Fund for Racial Justice and African American Empowerment Fund, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, will open for applications in March 2025. This fund offers small grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 to support educational programs and initiatives that promote racial justice and empower African American communities. It aims to foster positive change and enhance opportunities for education and engagement.

The Native Entities Grant Program, initiated by NTIA under the Digital Equity Act of 2021, aims to support Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations. This program streamlines funding through a unified application for two significant initiatives: the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant and the Digital Equity Competitive Grant. By focusing on reducing administrative burdens, it enhances access to digital resources and equity in underserved communities.

The USA Swimming Foundation's HBCU Grant program is a $1 million initiative aimed at enhancing swimming opportunities in communities served by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Launched in 2021, the program provides annual grants of $100,000 over ten years, supporting youth water safety lessons and university swim clubs. This initiative is designed to empower HBCUs to expand their aquatic programming, fostering inclusivity and safety in swimming across diverse communities nationwide.

Library Vision Grant Guidelines

Tribal College Library

Libraries are essential to communities, providing access to information, resources, and programming for people of all ages. The North Dakota State Library (NDSL) and the North Dakota Library Coordinating Council (NDLCC) are committed to supporting Tribal College Libraries with meeting the needs of their communities. The local library is best able to determine the needs of the community that they serve. The goal of this grant is to support local tribal libraries with meeting the needs of the community by providing funds to support resources, programming, spaces, and library operations.

Grant applications should indicate the purpose of the project, the funds required to complete the project, the impact that the project will have on the community, and a clear evaluation plan with measurable goals. Goals should follow the SMART goals framework. SMART goals are a framework for setting objectives that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

The project must be aligned with a Library Vision goal and the application must clearly articulate how and why the project aligns with the specific goal selected. The grant will not be funded if the project and selected Library Vision goal are not aligned. Please review the Library Vision Strategic Plan for more information on the goals.

The EmpowerMENt Fund Grant, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, aims to uplift young Black males in Washtenaw County by promoting their educational success. This initiative focuses on a holistic approach, providing mentorship, vocational training, and college readiness support. By investing in collaborative efforts, the fund seeks to address the systemic inequities faced by this demographic, fostering positive outcomes and community contributions over a one-year period.

The Yocha Dehe Community Fund, established by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation in 2000, supports initiatives that strengthen communities throughout Yolo County and beyond. With nearly $40 million in grants, the Fund prioritizes projects in health, education, Native arts, and environmental protection. The Tribe's commitment involves active participation in the grant process, ensuring impactful partnerships with various organizations. New applicants must register on the grant portal and submit a letter of inquiry to be considered for funding.

The Our Village Grants by the Jack and Jill of America Foundation aim to support 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations dedicated to uplifting African American families. These grants focus on programs that address educational and economic disparities, particularly those exacerbated by the pandemic. Initiatives may include digital learning resources, tutoring, and support for health and food security. The foundation prioritizes organizations that align with their mission to create lasting positive impacts in under-resourced communities.

The Justice and Liberation Fund Grant, administered by the Headwaters Foundation for Justice, provides $50,000 in unrestricted operating support to Black-led organizations in Minnesota that address systemic injustices. This funding aims to strengthen the Black movement ecosystem by empowering community-led initiatives that advance equity and justice. The grant prioritizes organizations that are rooted in the experiences of those directly affected by social issues, fostering transformative change through collective power and accountability.

The Greater Cincinnati African American Scholarship Fund, administered by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, offers scholarships for high school seniors in the Greater Cincinnati area. With awards ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, the program aims to support students pursuing higher education. Since its inception in 2002, it has awarded over $170,000 in scholarships, empowering local youth to achieve their academic goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The Bernice Barlow NAACP Scholarship, awarded by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports high school seniors pursuing higher education or vocational training. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be current members or children of members of the Saginaw NAACP Branch. This scholarship honors Bernice Barlow, a dedicated educator and NAACP leader, providing financial assistance to foster educational opportunities in the community. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000, helping students achieve their career goals.

The CAC/Robert L. Viera Community Service Scholarship, established in 1998, supports Saginaw County high school seniors pursuing higher education. This award assists students demonstrating financial need and recognizes those with special circumstances allowing part-time college enrollment. The scholarship honors Robert Viera's legacy of leadership in the minority and low-income communities, aiming to empower future leaders through education and community service. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000, ensuring accessibility to higher education for deserving students.

Preserving & interpreting the legacy of Maryland's past

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) supports historic preservation and revitalization by providing funding and resources to care for historic sites. MHT serves as the State Historic Preservation Office and operates Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum.

Funding

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) provides grants, tax credits, and loans for a variety of historic preservation projects. Explore our funding programs below.

African American Heritage Preservation Program Grants

The African American Heritage Preservation Program (AAHPP) provides $5 million in grants to assist in the preservation of buildings, sites, and communities significant to African American history and culture in Maryland. 

The program is jointly administered by the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) and the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture (MCAAHC). 

The Dr. John M. Anderson Excellence in Mental Health Award honors outstanding mental health professionals who combat stigma within the African American/Black community in St. Louis. Sponsored by the St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund, this award celebrates individuals showing clinical excellence and significant impact on mental health care for children and families. Nominees undergo a rigorous assessment process to ensure they meet the award's high standards and criteria.

The Summer Tribal Youth Program, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, provides matching grants to federally recognized tribes to engage youth aged 13-19 in natural resource conservation. This initiative promotes hands-on educational experiences, mentorship, and skill-building in environmental stewardship. Funding can cover up to 50% of project costs, including salaries, stipends, training, and materials. The program aims to foster interest in natural resource careers through culturally relevant, community-driven projects.

About OJP

The Office of Justice Programs provides leadership and resources to reduce crime, improve the functioning of the criminal justice system and assist crime victims.

2027 Tribal Nation-based Crime Victim Services

Request for proposals (RFP)

The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to solicit applications for funding to provide crime victim services on Tribal Nation lands in Minnesota. Funded grantees are expected to be a resource for their Tribal community and provide crime victim services as detailed in the Program Standards (see Section 2.1 of RFP) under which they are funded.

The Dr. John M. Anderson Excellence in Mental Health Award recognizes outstanding mental health professionals in the St. Louis area who significantly contribute to reducing stigma and promoting mental health in the African American community. This award, presented by the St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund, honors individuals who demonstrate a commitment to improving access to mental health services and advocate for the well-being of children and families. Nominations are evaluated through a rigorous scoring process.

The Black Giving Collective (BGC) champions Black-led initiatives in the eight-county region of Rochester, New York, addressing systemic disparities within the Black community. Guided by the 2024 State of Black Rochester report, BGC provides grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, focusing on program support, capacity building, technology, and community engagement. Organizations must have Black leadership or membership to apply, ensuring that funding directly impacts and uplifts the community.

Tribal Housing Pre-Development Fund

Purpose:

The Tribal Housing Pre-Development Fund is a grant opportunity that funds activities related to affordable housing development, including planning, infrastructure, construction, site preparation, and other pre-development activities. The goal of the Fund is to increase preparedness to build housing and access other state-funded, affordable housing programs. 

Description:

Eligible activities include but are not limited to Planning Activities, such as Community Needs Assessment . Feasibility Studies, Market Analyses . Environmental Assessments , and similar activities to determine housing needs and develop a project plan that is responsive to the needs of the community. The grant also funds Infrastructure Investments, such as Sewage and Drainage Infrastructure, Waste Management, and Electric Utility, Broadband, and Renewable Energy Infrastructure. The grant funds Sustainable Transportation Investments  such as Road and Safety infrastructure that do not increase vehicle capacity. The grant funds Site Acquisition and Preparation Site Appraisal and Acquisition, such as Site Preparation, including Surveying, Grading, and Mitigation, Architectural and Engineering costs, Ecological and Wildlife Restoration, and Disaster Preparedness. The grant also funds Other Associated Costs Legal Fees, such as Consultant Fees, Staff Development and Training, and Staff Salaries.

The Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation's African Fellow Awards recognize emerging scholars conducting high-quality research related to violence in Africa. Open to applicants under 40 enrolled in Ph.D. programs, the fellowship offers mentoring, grants for fieldwork, and support for publishing. Projects should address urgent issues like crime, terrorism, and political extremism, aiming to enhance understanding and inform policies to mitigate violence in the region. The awards foster impactful research that contributes to social change.

The Strategic Initiative Grants by the Winston-Salem Foundation aim to build an inclusive economy for Black communities in Forsyth County. The program supports organizations focused on economic empowerment, addressing systemic inequities that affect Black residents. Grants are available for initiatives that create pathways to high-paying careers, promote financial stability, and support Black-owned businesses. This program reflects a commitment to fostering sustainable growth and equitable opportunities for all community members.

The A.L. Lewis Black Opportunity & Impact Fund grants aim to support nonprofit organizations in Duval County, fostering community empowerment through health, education, and economic growth. Established in 2022, this initiative focuses on igniting transformational change in Black neighborhoods by enhancing access to educational resources, economic opportunities, and healthcare solutions. The fund prioritizes organizations with an annual budget over $150,000, aiming to uplift and strengthen the local community through collaborative efforts.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is offering assistance under the Contaminated Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act Lands Assistance Program. This initiative aims to support Tribal entities in Alaska in addressing contamination issues on lands conveyed through the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. Eligible applicants include federally recognized tribes, Alaska Native regional and village corporations, and nonprofit associations. The program emphasizes the importance of safeguarding health and subsistence resources impacted by hazardous substances.

The Klamath River Fund: Community Impact Grant, initiated by the Humboldt Area Foundation and Wild Rivers Community Foundation, aims to enhance community-led climate resilience and restorative justice in the Klamath River Basin. This grant supports initiatives that prioritize racial equity, youth development, and environmental health. With funding requests starting at $10,000 and an average grant size of $50,000, it encourages partnerships and innovative projects that foster sustainable growth and well-being for local communities.

About The Department of Industrial Relations

The Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) was established in 1927. Its mission is to improve working conditions for California’s wage earners and to advance opportunities for profitable employment in California. DIR has four divisions, the Divisions of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE or Labor Commissioner’s Office or LCO), the Division of Safety and Health (DOSH or Cal/ OSHA), the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), and the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS). DIR administers and enforces laws governing wages, hours and breaks, overtime, retaliation, workplace safety and health, apprenticeship training programs, medical care, and other benefits for injured workers. DIR also publishes materials and holds workshops and seminars to promote healthy employment relations, conducts research to improve its programs, and coordinates with other agencies to target egregious violators of labor laws and tax laws in the underground economy.

California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP)

The California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP) empowers community-based organizations (CBOs) to be trusted messengers for the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and the Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), delivering crucial information on workers’ rights and safety measures to workers, employers, and their communities. At this time, CWOP is in a two-year cycle known as "CWOP 5.0/6.0." 5.0 refers to the fifth year of the project, covering approximately July 2025 – June 2026, and 6.0 refers to the sixth year of the project, covering approximately July 2026 – June 2027, with some exceptions. The present RFA is intended to supplement the current CWOP cohort.

CWOP Supplemental Funding Request for Applications (RFA)

Supplemental funds will support CWOP 6.0 and be available both for current grantees wishing to expand their deliverables and for new grantees who can address identified gaps and emerging needs as described in the Request for Application (RFA).

These supplemental funds will support the second year of the current cohort and fill identified gaps and emergent needs.

Existing grantees that are on track or surpassing their existing 5.0 grant deliverables and would like to increase their current deliverables as an Activator, Activator Plus, or Regional Lead may request additional funds by filling out this survey instead of going through the RFA process. Organizations must be competitive in their proposed goal changes to be considered for additional supplemental funds.

Applicants may apply for the following types of grants as part of this RFA: 1) Legal Services; 2) Outreach Tools; 3) Communications Support; 4) Activator Role; 5) Activator Plus Role.

Applicants fullfiling identified gaps and emerging needs for CWOP 5.0/6.0 will be prioritized for supplemental funding.

Communications Support Grant

Communications support, specifically interpretation services for Indigenous languages and/or the development of outreach assets. Applicants in this category can propose to:

• create accessible and easy to understand outreach materials based on State-approved messaging and talking points and/or
• provide Indigenous language interpretation capacity to the CWOP program by interpreting at events and meetings and creating, or supporting with the creation of, Indigenous language audio and videos based on State-approved content.

All applicants must demonstrate substantial and extensive experience by the number of years and depth of work that overlaps with this category.

The AISES RISE Scholarship offers $2,000 annually to support Indigenous students pursuing careers in STEM, particularly in the casino gaming industry. This initiative, powered by Aristocrat Gaming, aims to empower Indigenous talent through exposure, resources, and programming. Eligible applicants must be full-time students and current AISES members, demonstrating a commitment to their education and community. The scholarship seeks to enhance diversity in STEM fields by providing critical financial support to deserving students.

The NJ Community Service Grant Programs, managed by the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research, and Development, aim to enhance the quality of life for New Jersey's Hispanic community. The program focuses on empowering organizations through funding in areas like community service, health, and workforce development. New applicants are advised to register early and can apply for multiple funding categories, promoting initiatives that address educational enrichment, health risks, and senior assistance.

The NJ Youth Workforce Investment Grant Program aims to provide essential workforce experience services to at-risk youth, including those in foster care, homeless youth, and English Language Learners. The program focuses on improving workplace behavior, developing personal attributes, and equipping participants with the skills necessary for employment and career advancement. By fostering public/private partnerships, the initiative seeks to enhance training and employment opportunities for the Hispanic community in New Jersey.