The Equity Fund
Forecasted
The Equity Fund supports organizations serving Lancaster County residents with capacity-building projects that address systemic barriers, strengthen inclusive practices, and improve equitable access.
Funder: Lancaster County Community Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2027 (Eligibility Screen for feedback) | June 2027 (Draft for feedback) | July 2027 (Eligibility Screen) | July 2027 (Final application)
Funding Amounts: $5,000–$15,000; one-year funding period in the 2026 cycle
Summary: Supports organizational capacity-building that addresses systemic barriers and strengthens equitable, inclusive practices for Lancaster County residents.
Key Information: Applicants must have current IRS 501(c)(3) status and an annual audit or recent independent CPA financial review.
Description
The Equity Fund is administered by the Lancaster County Community Foundation to invest in the resilience of organizations addressing systemic barriers facing Lancaster County residents. Its 2026 focus is capacity-building work that helps organizations identify equity gaps and strengthen inclusive practices, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to equitable opportunities and partnerships with community benefit organizations serving local residents.
Supported activities include training on culturally responsive practices, developing inclusive policies and procedures, and creating community engagement strategies that center underrepresented voices. Organizational assessments are also supported as a way to identify and address equity gaps. The program focuses on how organizations operate, engage their communities, and make their programming, services, and opportunities more equitable and accessible.
