[Rhode Island Foundation](https://rifoundation.org)

August 2026 (Application deadline, projected)

$2,500–$10,000 per award; one grant per organization per year; annual competition

Annual grants supporting projects and capacity building for organizations serving Rhode Island’s LGBTQ communities, focusing on advocacy, organizational development, and community education.

--- ## Description Equity Action project and capacity building grants are awarded annually by the Rhode Island Foundation to support initiatives addressing the needs of LGBTQ communities in Rhode Island. Funding is available for projects such as advocacy to influence policy, board and program development, strategic planning, nonprofit business development, fundraising, program evaluation, and community education. The program is designed to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of organizations that play a vital and unique role in serving Rhode Island’s LGBTQ communities. Both LGBTQ-focused and broader organizations are encouraged to apply, including all-volunteer and grassroots groups. --- ## Due Dates - August 2026 (anticipated/projected application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical grant awards range from **$2,500 to $10,000**. - Organizations may receive **one project or capacity building grant per year**. - Grants are awarded on an **annual basis**. - The total program has distributed over $1.3 million to dozens of organizations historically. --- ## Eligibility - Open to **501(c) nonprofit organizations** or those sponsored by an umbrella 501(c) organization. - Units of local or state government are eligible. - Groups without nonprofit status may apply through a **fiscal sponsor**. - All applicants must have a **board-approved non-discrimination policy** that explicitly includes race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, and national origin (see [Non-Discrimination Policy FAQ](https://stdidrifoundationprod.blob.core.windows.net/rifoundation/documents/EA_Nondiscrimination_FAQ_updated-2.14.24-002.pdf)). - Organizations located outside Rhode Island are only eligible for projects benefiting Rhode Island residents. - **Not eligible:** Individuals, organizations that discriminate, fraternal or religious organizations (unless serving the entire community), political campaigns, debt repayment, endowment funds, scholarships, capital support (except equipment with clear benefit), or start-up funding without a sustainability plan. --- ## Application Process 1. **Prepare Required Materials:** - Complete the [online application](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=rif) (project or capacity building grant). - Submit a [project budget](https://stdidrifoundationprod.blob.core.windows.net/rifoundation/documents/Proposal-Budget-Type-A.XLSX). - Provide a project narrative (within the application). - Include a copy of your organization’s non-discrimination policy. - If requesting funds for consultant services, include a scope of work. 2. **Submission:** Applications must be submitted through the Rhode Island Foundation's online grants portal. 3. **Review:** Funding decisions are typically made within six to ten weeks of submission. 4. **Support:** The Foundation encourages applications from organizations with limited grantwriting experience and offers assistance with the non-discrimination policy requirement. --- ## Additional Information - Projects may focus on advocacy, partnership development, coalition building, or community education. - Priority is given to activities that increase the effectiveness and sustainability of organizations serving LGBTQ Rhode Islanders. - All-volunteer and grassroots organizations are strongly encouraged to apply. - For questions about the non-discrimination policy, applicants may contact Keith Tavares (see below). --- ## External Links - [Equity Action Grants Program Page](https://rifoundation.org/grant/equity-action-grants) - [Online Application Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=rif) - [Proposal Budget Template (XLSX)](https://stdidrifoundationprod.blob.core.windows.net/rifoundation/documents/Proposal-Budget-Type-A.XLSX) - [Non-Discrimination Policy FAQ (PDF)](https://stdidrifoundationprod.blob.core.windows.net/rifoundation/documents/EA_Nondiscrimination_FAQ_updated-2.14.24-002.pdf) - [Recent Grants Announcement](https://rifoundation.org/news/grants-available-for-nonprofits-that-help-lgbtq-rhode-islanders) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role/Area | Email | Phone | |---------------------|----------------------------|------------------------------------|-----------------| | Rhode Island Foundation | General inquiries | info@rifoundation.org | (401) 274-4564 | | Keith Tavares | Capacity Building Officer (Non-discrimination policy assistance) | ktavares@rifoundation.org | (401) 427-4054 | | Ian Ross | Grants Operations Manager (Portal/technical) | iross@rifoundation.org | | For additional questions, use the [contact form](https://rifoundation.org/about/your-community-foundation/contact) on the Rhode Island Foundation website.

Equity Action Grants

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