Best Grants for LGBTQ Nonprofits in New Mexico

Nonprofit organizations in New Mexico serving at-risk and underserved LGBTQ+ communities can apply for grants supporting health, safety, and empowerment initiatives. Santa Fe Community Foundation’s Envision Fund backs work on HIV prevention, anti-discrimination efforts, safe school programs, and holistic reproductive and gender-affirming healthcare across the state.

Nonprofit organizations advancing LGBTQ+ rights and services in New Mexico can apply for Leonard Litz Foundation’s LGBTQ+ Advocacy Fund to support large-scale, pivotal advocacy projects. The fund backs programs in health and wellness, crisis intervention, racial justice, community engagement, and social assistance, with preference for northeastern U.S. groups and those serving communities of color and transgender or gender-nonconforming people.

Nonprofit organizations providing LGBTQ+ advocacy, services, or community programs, including those in New Mexico, can apply for Leonard Litz Foundation grants supporting health, crisis intervention, racial justice, and social assistance initiatives. Preference is given to northeast U.S. organizations and programs serving communities of color and transgender or gender-nonconforming people.

Public and charter schools and registered nonprofits in New Mexico partnering with LGBTQ+ youth leaders (ages 13–18) can access funding from It Gets Better to run youth-led projects improving safety and inclusion. Grants from US $500 - US $10,000 support community-wide initiatives for LGBTQ+ students, with priority for youth of color, trans and nonbinary youth, and youth with disabilities.

LGBTQIA+ and social justice–focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits in New Mexico can apply for the Looking Out Foundation’s grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $25,000 for programs supporting LGBTQIA2S+ communities, displaced people, immigrant communities, and mental health. Organizations serving disadvantaged youth, women, the unhoused, and those facing food insecurity may also be eligible.

Nonprofits and community groups serving transgender, gender-nonconforming, non-binary, and intersex people in New Mexico can access funding through the Leonard Litz Foundation’s TransPLUS Resource Grants. Support may cover health care, housing, legal and religious services, community conferences, and other critical supports, alongside connection-building, peer networks, and resource-sharing for TGNCNBI communities nationwide.

LGBTQ-focused 501(c)(3) organizations in New Mexico can seek project-specific funding for community support, public education, and HIV and health programs serving rural or underserved LGBTQ+ populations. Gamma Mu Foundation supports U.S. groups with up to US $15,000, prioritizing HIV/STD education, prevention, and treatment initiatives that strengthen services and organizational capacity.

Nonprofit organizations in southern New Mexico that support local LGBTQIA+ groups can receive US $500 - US $2,000 for ongoing social support programs. The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico funds arts, humanities, and social science initiatives, including human rights, public health, sex education, art, theater, music, and literature serving queer communities in Doña Ana, Hidalgo, Lincoln, Luna, Otero, and Sierra counties.

Local or national 501(c)(3) organizations serving LGBTQ communities can apply for Grass Roots Gay Rights Foundation’s Tier B grants, awarding US $10,000 for programs in the Greater Bay Area. LGBTQ nonprofits in New Mexico may be eligible if their work reaches or serves this region and aligns with the foundation’s mission.

LGBTQ-focused health and advocacy organizations in New Mexico may benefit when nominated physicians and medical advocates direct this award’s US $2,500 honorarium to a nonprofit health organization. The American Medical Association Foundation’s Excellence in LGBTQ Health Award recognizes physicians, residents, fellows, and final-year medical students advancing LGBTQ policy, advocacy, care, research, workforce diversity, and health administration nationwide.

LGBTQ individuals pursuing post–high school education or vocational training that leads to financial stability may be eligible for one-time We Rise LGBTQ Scholarship awards in the San Francisco Bay Area. Funded by the Grass Roots Gay Rights Foundation, this program supports studies from trade certificates through doctoral degrees and welcomes applicants dedicated to advancing LGBTQ rights.

LGBTQIA+ nonprofit organizations in Southern New Mexico can receive grants to support programs and services for queer communities. The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico’s Rainbow Fund backs work in arts and humanities, mental and physical health, self-awareness, recreation, and youth and elderly support across twelve southern counties, which may benefit New Mexico LGBTQ nonprofits.

LGBTQ+ students pursuing post-secondary education who reside in the Northwest may be eligible for scholarships supporting their studies, including those focused on sexuality and LGBTQIA+ rights. Pride Foundation provides New Mexico LGBTQ+ community organizations with a potential resource to share with student leaders facing financial need and systemic barriers to education.

Third Wave Fund provides New Mexico LGBTQIA+ and gender justice groups with rapid-response funding for unanticipated, time-sensitive organizing needs. Coalitions, informal groups, and nonprofits led by young people of color and low-income communities can request up to US $20,000 for direct actions, mutual aid, healing justice, safety, legal or bail fees, and related movement-building work.

Nonprofit organizations using community organizing for gender justice in New Mexico and beyond can apply for grants of US $10,000 to support systemic change work. Bread & Roses Community Fund prioritizes groups led by those most affected by gender oppression, especially serving women, girls, trans, gender nonconforming, and LGBTQI+ communities.

LGBTQ+ and allied high school or college students pursuing accredited two- or four-year degrees or trade programs can receive US $2,000 for academic expenses through the Betsy Frabotta Educate and Engage Scholarship; awards support Q+ youth leadership and equity work. The Dayton Foundation provides this funding, which may benefit students connected to LGBTQ-focused New Mexico nonprofits.

U.S. youth ages 13–23 leading social impact projects, including those serving LGBTQIA+ communities in New Mexico, can apply for Riley's Way Foundation’s Call for Kindness Fellowship; awards up to US $5,000 for project expenses. Funding supports youth-led initiatives addressing issues like environmental justice, food insecurity, homelessness, education equity, and community connection.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits in New Mexico advancing LGBTQ+ causes, human rights, or girls’ and women’s empowerment can seek US $20,000 in capacity-building support, plus pro bono consulting and governance resources. Cause Strategy Partners funds U.S.-based organizations with under $400,000 in revenue to strengthen operations, leadership, fundraising, technology, and advocacy infrastructure.

Graduating high school students who identify as LGBTQ+ or as active allies seeking college funding, including those from New Mexico, can apply for the Pride in the Hills Scholarship. Connecticut Community Foundation supports sexuality and LGBTQIA+ rights through this one-time academic scholarship opportunity for students pursuing higher education.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in New Mexico advancing LGBTQ equality and broader human rights can seek US $100 - US $15,000 for general operating, projects, advocacy, programs, or capacity building. The B.W. Bastian Foundation prioritizes groups that explicitly affirm equality for all Americans, including the gay and lesbian community, and primarily supports work in the Intermountain West and nationally impactful projects.

The Kadel & Gerhardt Internships, funded by the Point Foundation, aim to enhance the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in HIV/AIDS research and advocacy. These internships support academically talented students pursuing unpaid opportunities in the summer of 2025, addressing the critical need for culturally competent care within the community. By investing in future leaders, the program seeks to combat the stigma surrounding HIV and increase access to essential services for those affected.

The Parsons Family Scholarship for LGBTQ+ Youth and Allies, established by the Parsons family, supports Maine graduating high school seniors of any gender identity or sexual orientation. The scholarship awards $2,000 and is aimed at LGBTQ+ students and their allies pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. Recipients will be notified by the selection committee in late May, with funds disbursed in December for the spring semester. This initiative reflects a commitment to inclusivity and support for diverse youth.

The We Are Moving The Needle Scholarship supports women, trans, and non-binary creators in the music industry by offering two full scholarships for a masterclass with GRAMMY-nominated producer Alissia in Paris. This initiative aims to empower underrepresented voices through education and mentorship, fostering a more inclusive music industry. Participants will engage in hands-on workshops designed to enhance their production skills and gain insights from a leading industry professional, contributing to lasting cultural change.

The Eash-Potter Scholarship supports LGBTQ youth in central Pennsylvania, honoring Melinda Eash and Sharon Potter's legacy. It is available to graduating high school seniors from specific counties who demonstrate commitment to enhancing the community climate for LGBTQ+ individuals. Financial need is a consideration, and the scholarship is a one-time award. Students of color, transgender individuals, and children of LGBTQ+ parents are particularly encouraged to apply, promoting diversity and inclusion within the scholarship program.

The Mary E. Kwiatkowski Social Services Scholarship Fund, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports female and LGBTQIA+ students pursuing social sciences and public service careers. In 2023, over $800,000 was awarded to more than 500 students for post-secondary education. This scholarship aims to eliminate financial barriers for diverse talents in Erie County's social services sector, requiring applicants to submit an essay on their public service aspirations and challenges in the Erie region.

Outreach Foundation Helen Bonser Scholarship

This scholarship supports the educational aspirations of individuals from Spokane and Kootenai Counties who identify as LGBTQA+ or Allies, helping them achieve their academic and career goals while fostering a sense of community engagement. 

Applicants should demonstrate exceptional character, leadership, and/or LGBTQA+ community involvement. Recipients are eligible to re-apply and compete for the Outreach Foundation Helen Bonser Scholarship after a waiting period of 5 years.

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Alan D. Stephenson Scholarship

The Alan D. Stephenson Scholarship was established to support promising LGBTQIA+ students to achieve their academic potential.