Black Philanthropy Bannister Fund Grants
Black Philanthropy Bannister Fund Grants support groups serving Black Rhode Islanders through economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and youth programs to address community needs.
Funder: Rhode Island Foundation
Due Dates: December 3, 2026, at 3 pm (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Requests up to $15,000
Summary: Supports community-based work advancing economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and youth development for Rhode Island’s Black community.
Key Information: Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or groups using a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor, located or delivering services in Rhode Island.
Description
The Black Philanthropy Bannister Fund, administered by the Rhode Island Foundation, supports work addressing the most pressing needs of Rhode Island’s Black community. It combines the legacy of the Black Philanthropy Initiative with that of Bannister House, a Providence nursing home for retired African American domestic workers. Following the home’s sale, its former board contributed the proceeds to the initiative, and the fund was renamed in 2016.
The fund prioritizes community-based programs that uplift Black Rhode Islanders experiencing low income through financial stability, economic empowerment, and efforts addressing structural inequities. It also supports programs promoting Black Rhode Islanders’ history and achievements and preserving Black community culture. Its second core priority is youth development and mentoring for Black youth, including educational success, avoidance of high-risk behavior, and positive decision making toward higher aspirations.
