Best Social Justice Grants in Massachusetts

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

Massachusetts social justice nonprofits focused on equity in aging can access funding through Point32Health Foundation for multi-year general operating support, including staff wellness and leadership development. Organizations advancing social and racial justice, policy, advocacy, and systems change around aging in communities facing disinvestment may be eligible alongside peers in other New England states.

The Immediate-Need Investments grant focuses on supporting historically underfunded organizations in Massachusetts. With an emphasis on respect-based grantmaking, it provides one-time investments averaging $2,500 for urgent needs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and local branches of national organizations. The grant prioritizes those that empower communities and enhance transparency, ensuring that funding reaches those who are actively shaping shared narratives within their communities.

Grassroots social justice and environmental justice organizations in Massachusetts and across New England can seek urgent funding to respond quickly to unforeseen crises or organizing opportunities, with awards up to US $5,000. Haymarket People's Fund prioritizes people of color-led groups under $400,000 budgets that embed anti-racism and anti-oppression in their work.