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Best Grants for Minorities

Explore grants for minority-led nonprofits and initiatives advancing equity, opportunity, and culturally responsive services.

556

Available grants

$57.4M

Total funding

$8.3K

Median grant

556 grants
$57.4M total
$8.3K median

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556 Results based on applied filters

Asian Giving Circle Grant

The Chicago Community Trust
Private
Cook County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +4 more
US $10,000
The Asian Giving Circle (AGC) Grant, established in 2002, supports Asian and Pacific Islander nonprofits in the Chicago area by pooling donor resources to advance social justice. With over $800,000 in contributions, AGC prioritizes proposals from API organizations for general operating costs, emphasizing support for underrepresented communities and innovative projects. Applications will be reviewed from mid-June to August 2025, with awards announced by September.
Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Minority Services

Vernon L. Odom Fund Grant

Akron Community Foundation
Private
Summit County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
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.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Minority Services Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights

Moses Kimball Fund Grant

Moses Kimball Fund
Private
Belknap County, New Hampshire, Bristol County, Massachusetts +15 more
Unspecified amount
The Moses Kimball Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations providing job opportunities for minorities and disadvantaged individuals in Greater Boston, or facilitating connections between educational institutions and community members in need. Applications are accepted annually from June 1st to March 1st. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. This grant aims to empower underserved populations and promote educational outreach.
Poverty Alleviation & Services Minority Services

Many Voices Fellowships

Playwrights' Center
Private
Minnesota
US $56,000
The Many Voices Fellowship supports early career Black and Indigenous playwrights in Minnesota, offering a $25,000 salary and $3,000 for play development. This two-year program focuses on enhancing artistic vision through collaboration with experienced theater professionals. Since its inception in 1994, it has awarded over 140 fellowships to diverse voices in theater, providing crucial financial support and mentorship to cultivate new works and enrich the American theater landscape.
Theater Minority Services Artist Training & Development +1 more

CRCF General Grants

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation
Private
Chautauqua County, New York
US $1,000 - US $4,000
The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation offers CRCF General Grants aimed at enhancing community welfare through flexible funding for emerging needs and one-time costs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving Southern Chautauqua County, with a focus on mission alignment and broad impact. This bi-monthly grant process facilitates support for program enhancements, capital improvements, and technology upgrades, ensuring that community needs are met effectively.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy Religion & Spirituality Education +15 more

Emergent Fund Grant

Emergent Fund
Association/Society
United States
US $10,000 - US $30,000
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.
Social Justice / Human Rights Civic Engagement & Education Minority Services +2 more

Trinity Grants: Racial Justice Initiative

Trinity Church Wall Street
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
US $80,000 - US $350,000
The Trinity Grants: Racial Justice Initiative, spearheaded by Trinity Church Wall Street, aims to foster equitable justice systems through community-driven approaches. Focused on mental health, safety, and reducing incarceration, this initiative emphasizes support for marginalized groups, particularly people of color. It addresses the need for restorative justice, legislative reforms, and comprehensive support for those impacted by the criminal legal system, aiming to transform communities and enhance public safety.
Criminal Justice System Reform Reentry Services Immigrant Services +5 more

Life Comes From It (LCFI) Grants

Tides Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
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.
Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights Minority Services Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights +1 more

Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Fund Grant

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Up to US $10,000
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.
Minority Services Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage Native American Culture & Heritage +3 more

CZI Community Fund

Chan Zuckerberg Initiative Advocacy
Private
San Mateo County, California
Up to US $200,000
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.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Social Justice / Human Rights Minority Services +2 more

Cultivate: Leadership Grant Program

Crossroads Fund
Private
Cook County, Illinois, DeKalb County, Illinois +13 more
Unspecified amount
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.
Women's Rights & Equality Minority Services Women & Girl Services +6 more

AFM: Tau Grant (Cycle 1-Access to Healthcare)

Allegany Franciscan Ministries Inc.
Private
Hillsborough County, Florida, Martin County, Florida +4 more
Up to US $20,000
The AFM: Tau Grants provide unrestricted operating support to nonprofits serving marginalized groups, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and individuals with disabilities. These grants aim to strengthen organizations by funding strategic planning, technology upgrades, and essential infrastructure costs. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, such as not having received funding in previous cycles and ensuring diverse leadership. This initiative reflects Allegany Franciscan Ministries' commitment to fostering equitable and caring communities.
Health Care Access & Delivery Minority Services Nonprofit Growth & Development +1 more

Women & Girls of Color Fund: Front Range focus

The Women's Foundation of Colorado
Private
Adams County, Colorado, Arapahoe County, Colorado +7 more
US $10,000 - US $60,000
The Women & Girls of Color Fund focuses on empowering women and girls of color in Colorado through targeted investments in their leadership and economic security. With only 0.5% of foundation funding allocated to this demographic, the fund aims to dismantle systemic barriers and uplift community-led initiatives. Prioritizing organizations led by women of color, it supports diverse programs that enhance economic opportunities while addressing intersecting oppressions, thereby fostering a brighter future for all.
Minority Services Women & Girl Services Economic Rights, Justice, & Mobility +1 more

Women and Girls of Color Fund: Rural Cycle

The Women's Foundation of Colorado
Private
Adams County, Colorado, Alamosa County, Colorado +60 more
US $10,000 - US $20,000
The Women and Girls of Color Fund: Rural Cycle aims to empower women and girls of color in Colorado by addressing systemic disparities they face in health, wealth, and access to resources. By focusing on organizations led by women of color, the fund prioritizes initiatives that build economic power and promote community organizing. This fund not only seeks to increase financial support but also strives to dismantle oppressive structures, ensuring that marginalized communities receive the necessary resources to thrive.
Minority Services Women & Girl Services Economic Rights, Justice, & Mobility +2 more

Racial Equity Fund Grant

York County Community Foundation
Private
York County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $15,000
The Racial Equity Fund Grant, initiated by the York County Community Foundation in 2021, aims to promote equitable opportunities by funding projects that combat racism and inequity. Designed by a committee of community leaders of color, this grant prioritizes initiatives led by people of color, focusing on areas such as community leadership, education, health, and wellness. The committee reviews applications to ensure alignment with the fund's purpose, providing vital support to enhance community well-being.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Minority Services Education +6 more

NHWF: Women and Girls of Color Fund Grant

New Hampshire Women’s Foundation
Private
New Hampshire
Up to US $2,000
The NHWF: Women and Girls of Color Fund Grant supports projects led by and serving women and girls of color in New Hampshire. With only 1.9% of philanthropic dollars directed towards women and girls, this fund aims to address the funding gap by providing small, quarterly grants of up to $2,000. This initiative encourages community-based solutions, ensuring women and girls of color play a significant role in project planning and implementation, fostering equity and justice.
Women's Rights & Equality Women & Girl Services Minority Services +2 more

Capacity Grants for Rural and Underserved Communities

Minnesota Department of Human Services
State/Local Government
Minnesota
Up to US $100,000

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.  

Rural Development Minority Services Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Arts and Culture Program

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Up to US $15,000
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.
Art & Culture Community Culture & Heritage Arts / Culture Access & Participation +5 more

MCF: Maine Expansion Arts - BIPOC

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Up to US $10,000
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.
Minority Services Art & Culture Public / Community Art +2 more

The Marie A Calderilla Scholarship

Silicon Valley Community Foundation
Private
San Mateo County, California
Up to US $25,000
The Marie A Calderilla Scholarship, established in 2007, empowers women to pursue higher education despite financial constraints. Funded by a generous gift, it offers support for academic promise and commitment to educational goals. Eligible candidates include female students in the San Mateo County Community College District, aiming for their first degree or certificate. This scholarship promotes educational advancement for women who demonstrate perseverance and a strong desire to improve their lives through learning.
Education - Higher Education Minority Services Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Judy Anton Woman of Valor/Lupita Loves to Read Project Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County
Private
Santa Cruz County, California
Up to US $1,000
The Judy Anton Woman of Valor/Lupita Loves to Read Project Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, offers $1,000 or more annually to Latina students from Santa Cruz County high schools or Cabrillo College. Applicants must reside in Live Oak or Watsonville and demonstrate financial need, supporting educational aspirations and community involvement. This scholarship aims to empower young women through education, fostering a brighter future and greater opportunities for success.
Career / College Preparation Minority Services

LAFLA LEIF Fellowship

Legal Aid Foundation Of Los Angeles
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Up to US $10,000
The LAFLA LEIF Fellowship Program empowers underrepresented law students to pursue public interest careers. Launched in 2021, it provides fellowships to select summer law clerks, addressing inequities in the legal profession. Along with participation in the Summer Law Clerk Program, LEIF fellows engage in weekly meetings and complete a final project. They are eligible for up to $10,000 in educational reimbursement for tuition, fostering a community dedicated to equal justice.
Law Minority Services Educational Access & Equity +4 more

The Naveen and Suma Srinivas Family Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
Private
Davidson County, Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The Naveen and Suma Srinivas Family Scholarship Fund, established by a family committed to education, supports students graduating from economically disadvantaged high schools in Nashville. With a focus on those achieving a GPA of 3.0 or higher, this renewable scholarship aims to alleviate financial burdens for students attending accredited post-secondary institutions, fostering academic success and community growth.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Toward An Inclusive Architecture Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Toward An Inclusive Architecture Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, aims to empower Tennesseans of color by providing financial support for architectural education. This initiative not only covers educational expenses at accredited architecture schools but also enhances professional growth through internship placements at partner firms. By fostering diversity in architecture, the scholarship seeks to create a more inclusive and thriving community in Tennessee.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Minority Services +1 more

Leslie V. Forte Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia
Private
Alexandria City, Virginia, Arlington County, Virginia +3 more
Up to US $1,000
The Leslie V. Forte Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia, supports minority students at Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC). This scholarship honors Leslie V. Forte, the first African-American faculty member in NVCC's English Department. Eligible candidates must demonstrate strong academic performance, community involvement, and submit a personal essay. The fund aims to promote educational equity and empower underrepresented students in their academic and career pursuits.
Education - Higher Education Minority Services Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Mercyhealth Ethnic Minority Nursing Scholarship

Mercyhealth
Private
Boone County, Illinois, Carroll County, Illinois +10 more
US $1,000
The Mercyhealth Ethnic Minority Nursing Scholarship offers three $2,000 scholarships to ethnic minority individuals pursuing a nursing degree in northern Illinois. Applicants must be fluent in Spanish and maintain a 3.0 GPA. Selection is based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and financial need. This initiative, funded by the Mercyhealth Volunteer Association, aims to support diversity in nursing and improve healthcare access within the community.
Nursing Minority Services Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Mercyhealth Minority/Veteran Scholarships

Mercyhealth
Private
Boone County, Illinois, Green County, Wisconsin +5 more
US $2,000
The Mercyhealth Minority/Veteran Scholarships offer two $2,000 awards to minority or veteran individuals in Wisconsin and Illinois pursuing a career in healthcare. This initiative aims to support those who contribute to the community while enhancing diversity in the healthcare field. Applicants must submit complete documentation to be considered. Since 1994, Mercyhealth has been committed to providing quality healthcare, making this scholarship a vital opportunity for future healthcare professionals.
Military & Veterans Services Minority Services Academic Scholarship Programs

Grants for Minorities Highlights

Grants for minorities provide funding to address systemic inequalities, promote equity, and enhance opportunities. The following grants support nonprofits in empowering minority communities through education, healthcare, and economic development programs.


Search Instrumentl's Minorities Grants Database


Explore 122 funding opportunities for minority-focused initiatives, with $28.7M available. Instrumentl helps nonprofits secure funding, stay ahead of deadlines, and access insights to advance equity and inclusion efforts.

Grant Insights : Grants for Minorities

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Uncommon — grants in this category are less prevalent than in others.

100+ Grants for Minorities grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

50 Grants for Minorities over $25K in average grant size

41 Grants for Minorities over $50K in average grant size

32 Grants for Minorities supporting general operating expenses

100+ Grants for Minorities supporting programs / projects

800+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

900+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on STEM / STEAM Education

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for Minorities?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
36.9%
Q2
20.2%
Q3
22.1%
Q4
20.8%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Grants for Minorities?

Grants are most commonly $25,000.

$500 $500 Min.
$25,000 $25 K Median
$315,812 $315.8 K Average
$12,750,000 $12.8 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Grants for minorities are open to nonprofits that address systemic inequalities, promote equity, and enhance opportunities for disadvantaged individuals. Advocacy groups, educational institutions, and workforce development organizations serving communities that are consistently marginalized are eligible to apply to these grants. Many funders prioritize programs that encourage equity for all races, economic empowerment, and education.

Grants for minorities typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 36.9% 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 Q2.

These grants aim to bridge disparities by supporting programs that foster minority entrepreneurship, equity, and leadership development. Eligible programs strengthen public education, nurture cultural advancements, and address mental health gaps. Funders also invest in increasing access to financial resources for minorities.

On average, grants for minorities provide funding between $500 and $12,750,000, with typical awards falling around $25,000 (median) and $315,812 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

The Ford Foundation awards nearly 1,500 grants annually to organizations that address the underlying drivers of inequality.

Several other private foundations, namely the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, offers funding to address inequality, health, education, and family economic success. Several state, city, and corporations grants encourage diversity and inclusion programs provide funding for minority-serving organizations.

Explore over 11 funding opportunities with $41 million available on Instrumentl’s website

To secure grants for minorities, follow these three tips:

  • Demonstrate Community Impact. Highlight how your organization works to create inclusive communities and improve social well-being for minorities.
  • Create compelling proposals that include measurable outcomes In addition to writing strong answers, use data and measurable outcomes to prove the effectiveness of your programs.
  • Align programs with Funding priorities. Write proposals based on research from each donor organization to match closely with your organizational goals and what is most likely to get funded.

Want to improve your grant prospecting strategy? Master the process with our detailed guide to grant prospect research.

Instrumentl supports minority-focused nonprofits by finding several grants and readily available donor insights catered towards the needs of your organization. The comprehensive platform does not stop at grant prospecting, you can also track deadlines, manage proposal details, and keep track of multiple proposals at once. Instrumentl is the only platform your organization needs to win grants in no time. Learn more.