This funding opportunity offers a modest cash award of up to $3,000 to support projects and programs focused on promoting inclusion, equity, diversity, and respect in organizational and community settings. The intent of the grant is for groups to design activities that help foster a sense of belonging, participation, and collaboration among members and partners. The funds can be used for a range of locally‑driven initiatives such as speaker series, heritage celebrations, mentoring, outreach to underrepresented communities, professional development events, or other efforts that broadly support engagement and inclusion.
The emphasis is on developing ideas that bring people together, strengthen connections with other organizations or community groups, and enhance participation across various local or regional sections of a professional community.
Grants are generally available to organized volunteer groups associated with a statewide or regional structure, rather than to individual applicants. Eligible recipients are typically established local organizational units, such as professional society sections, regional chapters, or similar volunteer‑led groups located in the United States. This means that small nonprofits, academic societies, or community groups that function as official local units are the primary audience, rather than individual entrepreneurs or standalone businesses. The purpose of the funding is to support activities that help such groups become more inclusive and engaged with both their members and the surrounding community.
Because the funding is designed to underwrite locally chosen projects, the exact use of funds can vary widely depending on the needs and creative vision of the applicant. Projects should be planned and completed within a defined timeframe after awards are made and proposals are evaluated based on how well they align with the goals of promoting inclusive participation.
