Community Organizing Grants Program

PDF’s community organizing grants provide small general operating grants to organizations in the US, Mexico, and Haiti that are organizing for social, economic, and/or environmental justice. There are three funds within our community organizing grant program: the Seeding the Movement Fund, Western Mass Transformation Fund , and The Braiding New Worlds Fund. Eligible organizations can apply to one of these funds using our online grant portal. Click on the “Community Organizing Grants” application and then select the appropriate fund.

Objective: Build capacity of grassroots organizations engaged in community organizing for justice.

Funds Available: • Seeding the Movement Fund • Western Mass Transformation Fund • Braiding New Worlds Fund

Four Pillars of Community Organizing:

1. Shift Power — coordinated action to change institutional practices.
2. Build a Movement — expand membership and leadership capacity.
3. Dismantle Oppression — challenge racism, sexism, ableism, and harmful power dynamics.

Grant Size: Small general operating grants (amount varies by fund).

Restrictions: Not for individuals, scholarships, large organizations (> $250,000 budget), or one‑time events.

• Annual budget of $250,000 USD or less
• Based in the U.S., Mexico, or Haiti
• Must have 501(c)(3) status or a U.S.‑based fiscal sponsor (required for Mexico/Haiti groups)
• Clear connection to community organizing (building relationships, developing leaders, collective action campaigns)
• Organizations funded for 3 consecutive years must pause for 2 years before reapplying
• Not eligible: individuals, academic institutions, scholarships, lobbying, or organizations primarily focused outside U.S./Mexico/Haiti