Increasing Voter Participation
The William Penn Foundation funds nonpartisan projects using research and outreach to boost voter participation among underrepresented groups in Pennsylvania, focusing on Philadelphia and communities of color.
Funder: William Penn Foundation
Due Dates: July 30, 2026: Full application submission deadline (proposals due by 5:00 PM ET)
Funding Amounts: Up to $500,000 per project for 24 months; most competitive proposals are under $350,000; $2.5 million total available
Summary: Supports nonpartisan projects to increase voter participation among underrepresented groups in Pennsylvania, with emphasis on Philadelphia and communities of color.
Key Information: Voter registration activities are not eligible for funding; at least half of funds reserved for smaller organizations and/or those led by historically excluded groups.
Description
The William Penn Foundation’s Democracy and Civic Initiatives program is seeking proposals for nonpartisan projects that increase voter participation among underrepresented groups in Pennsylvania. The focus is on boosting turnout in Philadelphia and communities of color to match overall rates, particularly for the 2031 general election in Philadelphia and the 2032 presidential election statewide. Eligible projects may include outreach, organizing, education, advocacy, research, polling, communications, or journalism, provided they do not include voter registration activities. The Foundation encourages collaborative approaches and prioritizes projects that demonstrate meaningful engagement and leadership from the communities they aim to serve.
