Best Grants for Minorities

The Maine Expansion Arts - BIPOC program, initiated by the Maine Community Foundation, aims to enhance access to arts for Black, Indigenous, and people of color in rural Maine. This initiative supports organizations that empower BIPOC communities through arts-based programs, ensuring representation and inclusivity. Grants are available for both general support and specific projects that promote BIPOC artists, addressing barriers to participation in the arts and fostering cultural enrichment across the state.

The Inukai Family Foundation, established in honor of Richard Michael “Dick” Inukai, supports nonprofit organizations that enhance community welfare in Oregon, Idaho, and Southwest Washington. With a focus on positive youth development, educational grants, and healthcare support, the foundation promotes Japanese culture and provides scholarships for children of Dick's Auto Group employees. Through initiatives that address needs in education, senior care, and community outreach, the foundation continues to honor Dick Inukai's legacy of hard work and community service.

Grantmaking

Funding Rooted in Relationships

Our grantmaking supports the work that helps people, families, and neighborhoods build healthy, equitable communities, across generations. It is strategic, relationship-centered, grounded in trust, and shaped by ongoing learning with our community partners.

We focus on work that addresses root causes, strengthens community-led solutions, and builds long-term capacity in Kalamazoo County.

Strategic Pillars

Our strategic pillars are based on what we’ve learned from community, nonprofit and elected leaders. We all share the vision for a Kalamazoo County that includes:

The Lily Auchincloss Foundation, established in 1997, aims to enhance the quality of life in New York City through grants focused on human services, arts, and environmental initiatives. The foundation supports small to mid-sized organizations across the five boroughs, providing both general operating and program-specific funding. Its Human Services cycle prioritizes organizations dedicated to social change and education, ensuring a positive impact on all residents' lives.

The Arts and Culture Program, initiated by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF), aims to bolster arts and culture nonprofits in Washtenaw County through a focus on racial equity. This program supports community-driven projects that engage BIPOC groups, promote equity in arts education, and foster entrepreneurship in the arts. AAACF is dedicated to enhancing access to cultural resources for all residents, ensuring that the artistic identity of every community member is celebrated and supported.

The Addressing Disparities in Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) and Obesity in Maryland Communities program aims to reduce health inequity among Maryland’s racial and ethnic minorities. SDOH objectives highlight the significance of upstream factors, typically outside health care delivery, necessary to reduce health disparities and maintain healthy communities and populations. The program does this by funding organizations to provide community-based interventions addressing SDOH.​

The Pittsburgh Foundation aims to foster a vibrant, equitable, and just community in the Pittsburgh region through its Foundation-Directed Grantmaking. Focus areas include Basic Needs, Equity and Social Justice, Arts and Culture, Economic Mobility, and Environmental Action. The Foundation prioritizes support for organizations serving low-income communities and those impacted by social injustices. By aligning grantmaking with community aspirations, they strive to ensure everyone can thrive and access essential resources and opportunities.

The Emergent Fund Grant, established in 2016, supports BIPOC-led social justice movements through rapid response funding. It addresses urgent community needs by providing low-barrier grants to organizations facing crises such as family separation and systemic oppression. The fund prioritizes initiatives that foster Black liberation, multiracial solidarity, and empower communities to build transformative power. By investing in innovative strategies, the Emergent Fund aims to challenge oppressive structures and advance social justice, ensuring that impacted communities are at the forefront of their own advocacy.

The Foot Locker Foundation Community Empowerment Program supports nonprofit organizations that empower youth in underserved communities, addressing racial inequities and promoting wellness. Grants range from $25,000 to $100,000 and are available for youth programming and capital improvement projects. Eligible organizations must serve low-to-moderate income communities, have diverse leadership, and engage local Foot Locker teams in volunteer efforts. This initiative aims to enhance opportunities for youth by connecting them with essential services and mentorship.

About

Mission

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

Vision

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Scholarships

Charlies F. & Elaine Mellen Sutherland Education Fund

The Charles F. and Elaine Mellen Sutherland Education Fund will provide scholarships to one student each in the College of Forestry and the College of Public Health and Human Services.

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) VAWA – Culturally Specific 2026 NOFO # 1744-0618

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority is requesting proposals for NOFO # 1744-0618, VAWA Culturally Specific grants. A total of $825,000 in funding in Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is available through this solicitation for use over a period of 12 months.

The Culturally Specific Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) will support the development, enhancement, and expansion of culturally specific victim services. This funding opportunity supports efforts to raise public awareness of victim services, particularly for culturally specific communities. The goal of the Culturally Specific Program is to establish, maintain, and expand sustainable, culturally appropriate services that address the unique needs and challenges of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking from culturally specific communities.

This funding opportunity addresses an important need and service gap identified in Illinois: culturally specific services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking.

Provider Capacity Grants for Rural and Underserved Communities: Round Four

The Department of Human Services (DHS) Grants, Equity, Access, and Research (GEAR) Division (STATE) has the authority to enter into grant contracts that will increase the number and capacity of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) providers in rural and or serving rural or underserved communities pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 256.01, subdivision 2(a)(6). This grant opportunity is funded through the Minnesota Legislature Laws of Chapter 61 - MN Laws Section 59. PROVIDER CAPACITY GRANTS FOR RURAL AND UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES. Grant applicant represents that it is duly qualified and willing to perform the services set forth in this grant application to the satisfaction of STATE.   

Funding Requirements

The primary goals of this funding are to reduce disparities, increase access, and advance equity in the availability and delivery of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) across Minnesota. Successful capacity-building proposals must strengthen and enhance HCBS, with a particular focus on expanding existing HCBS programs’ access in rural and underserved communities. Applicants are required to clearly describe how the proposed funding will be used to build capacity, improve access, and enhance the delivery of HCBS. Proposals must also demonstrate compliance with all applicable HCBS licensing requirements and operational standards.

Grant funds will be awarded competitively to organizations that serve Medical Assistance (MA) recipients who are eligible for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), that are enhancing/expanding existing services to serving MA recipients eligible for HCBS. Funds must be used by organizations that currently serve MA recipients eligible for HCBS. Only organizations currently licensed and enrolled in MHCP are eligible to apply for this grant funding.  

The Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation Grant supports charitable, religious, and educational organizations focused on improving the lives of underprivileged individuals. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $50,000, often requiring a challenge or match. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under IRS codes and located within specific Florida counties. However, requests from primarily government-funded institutions or for certain excluded purposes, such as individual scholarships or operating expenses, are generally denied.

The Fund For Siouxland Grant, managed by the Siouxland Community Foundation, supports charitable initiatives in the Siouxland area. With a focus on arts, civic affairs, education, health, and human services, the fund aims to enhance community quality of life. Grants typically do not exceed $5,000, prioritizing projects that demonstrate collaboration, innovation, and broad community impact. The foundation is committed to serving diverse populations and addressing emerging needs without duplicating existing services.

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Everest Institute Alumni Fund Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide financial assistance to a graduating senior from a community of color residing in our 8-county region who plans to attend Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship or pursue a similar post-secondary business degree or certificate program.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and award amounts vary; paid in one lump sum.

Donor Information

This scholarship was created by contributions from Everest Institute alumni; the fund was transferred from a bank to the Community Foundation in 1991.

The Vernon L. Odom Fund, established in 1993 by the Akron Community Foundation, honors civil rights leader Vernon L. Odom. It supports programs that enhance diversity and improve the quality of life in local minority communities. With nearly $245,000 in grants awarded, the fund addresses specific needs of minority groups in Akron, promoting education and advocacy. As the minority population grows, the fund continues to play a vital role in fostering community empowerment and ensuring Odom's legacy endures.

The Cultivate: Leadership Grant Program empowers women and nonbinary leaders of color in Chicago by enhancing their skills in social, economic, and racial justice. Since 2013, it has fostered collaboration among diverse leaders, promoting gender and racial equity through intentional developmental support. Participants receive mentorship and coaching to strengthen their professional capabilities while building a connected community. This initiative is a partnership among significant local foundations, focusing on sustainability and growth within organizations led by women of color.

The CZI Community Fund empowers non-profit organizations in San Mateo County by enhancing access to essential services such as housing, healthcare, and education. This initiative aims to foster social and economic equity, particularly for marginalized communities, including low-income households and BIPOC individuals. Through annual grantmaking and capacity-building programs, the fund provides the necessary resources for organizations to effectively achieve their missions and facilitate community engagement.

Preparation for Academic Transition to Higher Education (PATH)

What is the PATH grant?

Preparation for Academic Transition to Higher Education (PATH) is a competitive grant program administered by the CT Office of Higher Education (OHE). It helps Connecticut nonprofit organizations (NPOs) develop relationships with public high schools to help their academically high-achieving disadvantaged juniors and seniors:

• Apply to a degree program at a Connecticut college or university
• Submit a FAFSA form and pursue scholarships and grants

An academically high-achieving disadvantaged student is unlikely to achieve their academic potential without programmatic intervention due to circumstances outside their control.

PATH-funded programs are provided for at least 30 weeks across the traditional fall and spring terms.

OHE oversees PATH grantees. PATH programs must maintain student records and file periodic reports in response to accountability procedures established by OHE. OHE staff also periodically visit PATH programs to gauge their quality and compliance with program guidelines.

The Centers of Excellence Program, funded by the US HHS: HRSA, aims to improve health professions education for under-represented minority individuals. It provides grants to health schools and organizations to enhance academic performance, expand clinical education, and strengthen faculty recruitment. This initiative promotes strategic partnerships to develop a competitive applicant pool and supports research on health issues affecting minority groups, ensuring better health outcomes and career opportunities in the health professions.

The Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Fund Grant, provided by the Maine Community Foundation, supports organizations led by and serving Black, Indigenous, and other people of color. The grant aims to promote equity in Maine through leadership investment, policy change, and combating race-based discrimination. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, municipalities, and public agencies in Maine, with a focus on programming that engages BIPOC communities. Grants offer up to $10,000 per year for various operational needs.

Promoting Academically Successful Students (PASS)

What is the PASS grant?

Promoting Academically Successful Students (PASS) is a competitive grant available through the Minority Advancement Program (MAP). It helps institutions of higher education (IHEs) fund programs that support undergraduate minority students on academic warning or probation. The programs are available to students during the fall and spring semesters.

PASS addresses low enrollment and graduation rates for minority students (mainly Black, Hispanic, and Latino). In Connecticut, about 12 percent of Black and 16 percent of Hispanic or Latino students enroll in an IHE compared to 52 percent of white students. Similarly, 54 percent of Black and 62 percent of Hispanic or Latino students graduate compared to 75 percent of white students.

Students are given an academic warning or placed on probation when they don’t meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP) standards. Students who don’t meet SAP standards2 may lose their financial aid and be dismissed from school. The SAP standards are:

Students must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA

Students must complete two-thirds of all attempted courses

Students must complete their program of study without attempting more than 150% of the credits required to complete the degree

OHE oversees all PASS grantees.

The Carrie B. Hines Endowment Scholarship, established in memory of Carrie B. Hines by her daughter, aims to support minority students in Saginaw County pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, volunteer for two years with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and complete community service hours. The scholarship promotes the importance of education and community involvement, reflecting Carrie’s legacy of service and dedication to uplifting others in her community.

CT Collegiate Awareness and Preparation (ConnCAP)

What is the ConnCAP grant?

Connecticut Collegiate Awareness and Preparation (ConnCAP) is a competitive grant program available through the Minority Advancement Program (MAP). It helps fund pre-college programs offered by Connecticut colleges and universities. These programs help disadvantaged students at public middle and high schools:

• Improve their academic skills and graduate from high school
• Enroll in college and succeed in a degree program

An academically high-achieving disadvantaged student is unlikely to achieve their academic potential without programmatic intervention due to circumstances outside their control.

ConnCAP programs are delivered year-round (fall, spring, and summer). They support students for at least:

• 30 weeks across the fall and spring semesters
• One week of intensive programming in the summer

OHE oversees ConnCAP grantees. ConnCAP programs must maintain student records and file periodic reports in response to accountability procedures established by OHE. OHE staff also periodically visit ConnCAP programs to gauge their quality and compliance with program guidelines.

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

STEM Scholars (formally Minority Science) Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

This scholarship is intended to address the unmet financial need of high school graduates from the city of Rochester who plan to attend college and major in science, technology, engineering, or math.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $6,000; paid as $1,500 per year for up to four consecutive years of undergraduate study. Award paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Donor Information

This scholarship was established in 1994 to provide financial support to minority graduates of the Rochester City School District who plan to study science, particularly environmental science, in college.

The Life Comes From It Grant, funded by the Tides Foundation, supports grassroots initiatives focused on restorative, transformative, and indigenous justice. It prioritizes projects led by communities of color, emphasizing alternatives to incarceration and community-led solutions. Applicants must be 501c3 organizations based in the United States. This grant fosters a collaborative approach to healing and justice, aiming to shift power dynamics and promote inclusive practices across generations.

Joyce C. Willis Equity in the Arts Award

The Joyce C. Willis Equity in the Arts Award is a new competitive grant as of 2025. Similar to our Creation of New Work grant, this award is designed to: 

• Foster creativity in Greater Hartford by supporting artists of color in the creation of new work
• Foster collaborations between artists of color and arts organizations that benefit the arts, the organization and the community
• Further the foundation’s mission to support and encourage excellence in the arts in the Hartford and the immediately surrounding communities. 

We hope this new program will provide greater support for artists of color in the Greater Hartford.