LGBTQIA+ advocacy is more critical now than ever, given the increasing anti-queer legislation and sentiment across the United States. According to the Human Rights Campaign, over 500 anti-queer bills were introduced in state legislatures in 2023, with more than 70 becoming law. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for robust advocacy efforts to protect and advance the rights of LGBTQ individuals. Established activist movements that can demonstrate stability, proven results, and dependable income streams are particularly well-positioned to benefit from these major grants currently available.
Arcus Foundation
The Arcus Foundation is committed to advancing social justice and conserving the world’s great apes. For LGBTQ advocacy, they fund organizations working to achieve equality and human rights. Arcus prioritizes initiatives with a proven track record of impact, focusing on those that promote policy change, public education, and community empowerment.
Groundswell Fund
Groundswell Fund supports grassroots organizing and advocacy efforts led by women of color and transgender people. They offer capacity-building grants to help organizations strengthen their infrastructure and strategic planning. Groundswell values collaborative approaches and looks for grantees who engage in coalition-building and community mobilization, particularly those addressing intersectional issues affecting LGBTQIA+ communities.
North Star Fund
The North Star Fund supports New York City-based organizations fighting for LGBTQIA+ rights and social justice. They offer grants to groups committed to transformative change and with a strong base of community support. North Star Fund seeks projects that address systemic inequalities and promote intersectional advocacy, ensuring that marginalized voices are heard and empowered.
Overbrook Foundation
The Overbrook Foundation funds initiatives advocating for human rights, including LGBTQIA+ rights, across the United States. They seek proposals from organizations with innovative approaches and a proven ability to effect policy change. The foundation prefers to support groups with clear strategies for achieving their goals and a demonstrated impact on the communities they serve.
Proteus Fund
Proteus Fund supports advocacy and policy initiatives that advance LGBTQIA+ rights and social justice. Their grants focus on strategic litigation, public education, and grassroots mobilization. Proteus looks for organizations with strong leadership and the capacity to influence public opinion and policy at local, state, and national levels.
Solidaire
Solidaire funds radical movements for social justice, including those advocating for LGBTQ rights. They provide resources to organizations that challenge oppressive systems and build inclusive, equitable communities. Solidaire values bold, innovative approaches and supports groups rooted in their communities that can show tangible progress towards their goals.
While these national funders are excellent resources for established queer-serving groups, start-ups may find more success by seeking local progressive family foundations, businesses, and government resources. If your nonprofit serves the Hudson Valley, please contact Ursa Minor Fundraising so that we can help you assemble a personalized pipeline of grant prospects.
The critical work of LGBTQIA+ advocacy cannot wait, and securing funding is a crucial step in ensuring that these efforts can continue and expand.