Grants

Investing in nonprofits that are advancing a new, transformative system of justice with the core values of racial equity, economic well-being, and fundamental fairness for all.

Grants Overview


Public Welfare Foundation awards grants to nonprofits that honor the Foundation’s core values of racial equity, economic well-being, and fundamental fairness for all. The Foundation looks for strategic points where its funds can make a significant difference and improve lives through policy and system reform that results in transformative change.

The Foundation funds organizations that currently hold a 501(c)(3) status with the Internal Revenue Service working in the United States. Organizations that do not have this status can apply with a fiscal sponsor. The Foundation does not fund individuals, scholarships, direct services, or international projects.

Grant Types: How We Fund the Work

General Support Grants

General support grants are for day-to-day operating costs or to further the work of your organization. These grants are not earmarked for a particular program or project.

Program or Project Support Grants

Program or project support grants support a specific program or activity of the organization. These are restricted grants and must be used for that program or project.

Special Opportunities Grants

The Special Opportunities Program supports projects reflecting the Foundation’s mission and underlying values. These are one-time only grants that are especially timely and compelling. At times, this kind of grant serves as a laboratory for new ideas.

Grants Awarded

Public Welfare Foundation awards grants throughout the year. Please see our database below to see what we have funded. Filter grants by fiscal year and program area.

  • Washington, DC // 2019

    Georgetown University

    Support to the Center for Juvenile Justice Reform to convene the Juvenile Justice Leadership Network.
    Awarded
    $200,000
    Term
    24 months
    Program
    Youth Justice
  • Washington, DC // 2019

    Association of Prosecuting Attorneys

    General support.
    Awarded
    $200,000
    Term
    24 months
    Program
    Criminal Justice
  • Washington, DC // 2019

    Georgetown University

    Support for the Georgetown Juvenile Justice Initiative to advance juvenile justice reform in the District of Columbia.
    Awarded
    $200,000
    Term
    24 months
    Program
    Special Opportunities
  • Washington, DC // 2019

    Step Afrika U S A Incorporated

    Support for marketing and communications efforts for Step Afrika!'s 25th anniversary.
    Awarded
    $25,000
    Term
    12 months
    Program
    President's Discretionary Fund
  • Washington, DC // 2019

    The MusicianShip DC

    Support for the DC Funk Parade.
    Awarded
    $15,000
    Term
    12 months
    Program
    President's Discretionary Fund
  • Washington, DC // 2019

    American University

    Support to the Justice Programs Office at American University School of Public Affairs for the Right to Counsel National Campaign.
    Awarded
    $85,000
    Term
    12 months
    Program
    Youth Justice
  • Washington, DC // 2019

    Center for Community Change

    Support for Fellowship on the Future of Workers.
    Awarded
    $165,000
    Term
    24 months
    Program
    Workers' Rights
  • Washington, DC // 2019

    Voices for a Second Chance

    General support.
    Awarded
    $25,000
    Term
    12 months
    Program
    Special Opportunities
  • Washington, DC // 2019

    Center for American Progress

    Support to expand alternatives to incarceration and foster public safety through inclusive economic development.
    Awarded
    $100,000
    Term
    12 months
    Program
    Special Opportunities
  • New York, NY // 2019

    Living Cities Inc the National Community Development Initiative

    Support for Frontline Solutions.
    Awarded
    $200,000
    Term
    24 months
    Program
    Special Opportunities