Weaver Awards
Weaver Awards support grassroots leaders and neighborhood groups with community project funding to bring residents together around shared needs, strengthen relationships, and build social connection and trust.
Funder: Aspen Institute
Due Dates: November 2, 2026 (Community Host applications)
Funding Amounts: $2,500 or $5,000 per Weaver Award; $225,000 per Community Host for a four-year partnership
Summary: Weaver Awards support neighbors bringing residents together to address shared needs and build social connection and trust.
Key Information: Individuals and informal groups can apply for local awards; Community Hosts need at least a $1 million operating budget.
Description
The Weaver Awards are run by the Aspen Institute’s Weave: The Social Fabric Project to recognize and support grassroots leaders who build trusting relationships where they live. The awards fund neighborhood work that brings residents together around shared needs, while celebrating leaders whose contributions often go unrecognized. Supported by Lilly Endowment Inc., the program is expanding through local Community Hosts across the United States.
Supported projects include community gardens offering free fresh food, revitalized vacant lots used for gatherings, neighborhood cleanups, mentorship programs, and health fairs. The emphasis is on connection and mutual care as neighbors work together. Alongside funding, Weave offers training, digital tools, peer support, gatherings, and opportunities to share local stories, helping awardees expand their work and inspire others to participate.
