Deadline: 2/1/22
Amount: up to $30,000
Website: https://benandjerrysfoundation.org/national-grants/
Description:
The National Grassroots Organizing Program offers one-year general operating support grants to non-profit grassroots organizations throughout the United States.The guiding principle behind this program is the Ben & Jerry Foundation’s belief that people most affected by a problem are in the best position to determine the solutions. We will consider proposals from grassroots organizations that are working to help themselves and their communities create broad systems change through community organizing and movement-building efforts. We prioritize organizations that are led by and center the leadership and agency of Black communities, Indigenous communities, and communities of color in their efforts to dismantle systems of oppression and the legacies of white supremacy culture in this country while working toward a more just and equitable society.
We define grassroots organizing as collective action from the bottom up. It challenges the status quo, demands changes in policy and practice, educates communities about root causes, and advocates and agitates for systemic and just solutions. True progressive change occurs only when underlying, systemic forces are understood and addressed. We firmly believe that grassroots, constituent-led organizing is among the most effective means to create social change.
Eligible applicants:
TO BE CONSIDERED FOR FUNDING, EACH APPLICANT ORGANIZATION MUST HAVE:
- An annual operating budget under $350,000
- Grassroots organizing as the primary strategy
- Non-profit 501(c)3 status, or a fiscal agent with this status
- Be U.S.-based and U.S.-focused
While our broad goals are to further racial equity, social justice, and environmental justice, our primary purpose is to support the grassroots organizing strategies and activities of our grant partners, rather than any specific issues the organizations are addressing.
UNFORTUNATELY, WE CANNOT CONSIDER REQUESTS FOR:
- Programs that solely provide direct services to individuals, families, or communities
- Internationally oriented programs
- Organizations with annual budget over $350,000
- Discretionary or emergency support
- Schools or programs for schools
- Colleges or universities
- Individuals or scholarship programs
- Research, litigation or legal expenses
- Capital or endowment campaigns
- State agencies or government programs
- Businesses or business associations
- Religious activities
- Arts or Media programs
- Other foundations or regranting organizations
PROGRAM CONTACT
Dana Jeffery
Administrative & Grants Management Coordinator