The City of Boulder’s Human Relations Fund (HRF) provides grants to support community-initiated projects that raise awareness of civil rights, human rights, and equity issues in Boulder. The program seeks to foster understanding, collaboration, and civic participation among diverse communities while supporting marginalized groups in celebrating significant events that also serve as educational opportunities for the broader public. Grants are available to nonprofit organizations and individual organizers working under a nonprofit fiscal sponsor, with the requirement that projects take place within Boulder city limits and have a direct impact on its residents.

HRF grants prioritize projects that align with the goals of diversity, inclusivity, and equity. Funded activities must be free and open to the public. Additional selection criteria include community-led initiatives, collaboration with other organizations, inclusivity among participants, accessibility for people with disabilities, and the ability to engage and educate the broader Boulder community. Special consideration is given to projects that have not previously received HRF funding and those that align with the fund’s ongoing priorities. HRF does not fund groups that have failed to meet past contractual requirements, projects without a significant impact on Boulder residents, or activities that charge participation fees.

The total anticipated funding available for 2024 is approximately $85,000, with the amount awarded per project varying based on need and alignment with HRF priorities. Funds may be used for expenses such as food, postage, marketing, office supplies, and speaker fees. While grants are not intended as primary funding for personnel costs, a modest honorarium (no more than 25% of the total grant) may be allocated to volunteer organizers. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until available funds are allocated. The review team reserves the right to withhold funding at certain points to ensure grants are distributed throughout the calendar year.

HRF grant applications follow a rolling schedule. The Spring Round, which funds events occurring from June to December 2025, will open in Spring 2025. The Fall Round, for events from January to May 2025, is already closed, as all funds have been allocated. Approved proposals will require a contract between the City of Boulder and the recipient organization, outlining deliverables before funds are issued. Depending on the award structure, some funding may be released at the beginning of the project, while a portion may be withheld until the submission of a final report.

All funded programs must credit HRF in their publicity using either a designated credit line or the Boulder Arts Commission and HRF logo. Upon project completion, recipients must submit a final report to the city, using a provided template, and send it to key-haganm@bouldercolorado.gov. The city reserves the right to reject proposals, waive informalities, and accept partial funding requests at its discretion. For more information, applicants may contact Markisha Key-Hagan at 303-441-3146.