The Pride Foundation is offering Community Grants for the year 2024, aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ groups and organizations across Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. The foundation prioritizes funding for organizations that serve Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) as well as Trans and Gender Nonconforming (TGNC) individuals, particularly those whose leadership reflects these communities. The average grant award size is anticipated to be around $10,000 per year. The application deadline for this grant is October 11, 2024.

The primary purpose of the Community Grants is to provide financial support to organizations that are innovatively addressing the needs of marginalized communities, especially those that may not have access to mainstream funding sources. The Pride Foundation emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizations, particularly those in rural areas with limited resources. The foundation recognizes that many organizations led by BIPOC, especially queer and trans individuals, may not have found adequate support within the larger LGBTQ+ movement, and aims to expand advocacy and movement building in these communities.

Funding from the Pride Foundation can be used for various purposes, with a focus on three priority areas: health and wellness, education, and community building. Organizations that provide health services, including HIV/AIDS prevention, mental health support, and gender-affirming care, are encouraged to apply. Additionally, organizations that focus on gender and racial justice education, youth services, and community support for vulnerable populations are also eligible for funding.

To be eligible for the Community Grants, organizations must have nonprofit 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsorship status and must be based in one of the specified states. The foundation prioritizes applications from organizations that demonstrate a commitment to serving BIPOC and TGNC communities, particularly those that are grassroots and innovative in their approach to community support.

The application process requires organizations to submit specific information, including details about their mission, the populations they serve, and how they align with the funding priorities of the Pride Foundation. Applicants should be prepared to answer questions related to their organizational structure, leadership representation, and the impact of their proposed projects.

Evaluation criteria for the grants will focus on the organization's alignment with the foundation's priorities, the potential impact of the proposed project, and the representation of BIPOC and TGNC individuals in leadership roles. The foundation aims to support organizations that are making significant contributions to their communities and addressing critical issues faced by marginalized populations.

The timeline for the grant application process includes a submission deadline of October 11, 2024. Organizations interested in applying should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and prepare their applications in advance of the deadline. For more information, potential applicants can visit the Pride Foundation's website or contact the foundation directly via email.