The Stonewall Community Foundation advances LGBTQ+ health and well-being by funding innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and community-driven solutions. Since its founding, the foundation has directed resources to grassroots organizations, research, and leadership development that address urgent needs and long-term systemic change.
Through targeted grants, capacity-building support, and collaborative initiatives, the foundation strengthens local organizations, amplifies marginalized voices, and builds a more equitable future for queer communities nationwide.
| Focus Area | Primary Goal | Key Population Served | Typical Grant Size | Geographic Reach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Equity | Reduce disparities in care access | Transgender and nonbinary people | $5,000–$50,000 | National |
| Economic Stability | Increase employment and income security | LGBTQ youth and seniors | $10,000–$100,000 | Regional hubs |
| Leadership Development | Grow next-gen organizers and board leaders | Queer people of color and immigrants | $15,000–$75,000 | National |
| Movement Building | Strengthen collaboration and advocacy | Community-based organizations | Project-based up to $250,000 | Multi-city |
Strategic Funding Initiatives
Stonewall Community Foundation designs funding initiatives to respond quickly to emerging crises and sustained needs. Each initiative aligns data, community input, and measurable outcomes to maximize impact.
By focusing on intersectional identities and structural barriers, the foundation ensures that resources reach the groups most affected by stigma and inequality.
Grantmaking Priorities and Application Process
Grantmaking priorities emphasize racial and economic justice, survivor-centered services, and participatory grantmaking. Organizations submit concept papers, followed by interviews and site visits when appropriate.
Technical assistance is provided to strengthen applications, enhance capacity, and support long-term sustainability beyond the funding period.
Community Impact and Partnerships
Through strategic partnerships with local clinics, housing providers, and advocacy groups, Stonewall Community Foundation expands the reach of each grant. Collaborative projects often leverage matching funds and volunteer expertise to deepen community roots.
Impact is measured through qualitative stories, quantitative outcomes, and longitudinal studies that track improvements in health, safety, and economic stability.
Policy, Advocacy, and Systems Change
Beyond direct funding, the foundation engages in policy advocacy to advance inclusive legislation and protect vulnerable populations. Advocacy efforts target health systems, employment practices, and public safety protocols that disproportionately harm LGBTQ+ people.
These efforts build power at local, state, and federal levels, ensuring that community voices shape the decisions that affect daily lives.
Future Vision and Sustainable Change
Looking ahead, Stonewall Community Foundation focuses on scaling proven models, deepening racial equity work, and building resilient networks that can withstand political and economic shifts.
- Review current grant priorities on the foundation website
- Prepare a concise concept paper aligned with foundation goals
- Engage staff in technical assistance sessions before applying
- Build partnerships to strengthen applications and expand impact
- Track outcomes and stories to demonstrate long-term change
FAQ
Reader questions
How can my organization apply for a grant from the Stonewall Community Foundation?
Organizations should review current funding priorities on the foundation website, submit a concept paper through the online portal, and prepare for a review cycle that includes interviews and, when relevant, site visits.
Does the foundation fund direct service programs or only organizational capacity building?
The foundation supports both direct services that meet urgent needs and capacity-building activities that strengthen governance, fundraising, and program delivery.
What geographic areas are eligible to apply for funding? While the foundation has national reach, some initiatives prioritize specific regional hubs; eligibility details are outlined in each funding opportunity announcement. How does the foundation ensure grantee safety and privacy around sensitive identities?
Grantee safety is protected through confidential application processes, optional anonymized data sharing, and trauma-informed practices that respect the needs of survivors and marginalized groups.