Economic Mobility
Funds research and intervention projects that build social capital and improve economic mobility for vulnerable youth (ages 0–24) in low-income households in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, Pennsylvania.
Funder: Richard King Mellon Foundation
Due Dates: April 17, 2026 (Round 1) | July 15, 2026 (Round 2)
Funding Amounts: $150,000–$500,000 per grant for 12–18 month projects; exceptional projects may receive more.
Summary: Supports projects that advance economic mobility for vulnerable children and youth (ages 0–24) in low-income households in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, focusing on education, career readiness, supportive environments, and community opportunities.
Key Information: Multi-year grants are generally not offered; most awards are for 12–18 months.
Description
The Economic Mobility program of the Richard King Mellon Foundation aims to create pathways to opportunity for vulnerable children and youth (birth to age 24) in low-income households in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, Pennsylvania. The program invests in four key areas: Educational Attainment, Future of Work, Supportive Living Environments, and Places of Opportunity. The current Request for Proposals (RFP) specifically seeks to support projects that increase cross-socioeconomic relationships and social capital for youth, with the long-term goal of improving economic mobility in adulthood. The Foundation also continues to accept applications for other Economic Mobility outcomes via its general application.
