Grant-Making Initiatives

In concert with our grantmaking work around Child Well-Being, Economic Opportunity, Community Wealth and Community Leadership, a portion of the Foundation’s grantmaking funds are distributed through programs or initiatives that seek to address a well-defined issue, need or area of the community. These programs are created when the Foundation, often in partnership with other funders, sets aside resources to address specific, pressing issues, frequently over a multi-year period.  The funding criteria and application processes vary by program and funds are often, but not always, distributed through competitive requests for proposals.

Currently open opportunities are featured here and on the Boston Foundation homepage.

Grant Opportunities

Poderosas

The Poderosas Fellowship

An annual investment of $25,000 to empower Latinas in advancement, development, and philanthropy roles, the Poderosas Fellowship equips emerging Latinas with the skills, resources, and networks needed to thrive. Apply by July 17.

GSK Impact Fund logo

GSK Impact Awards

Deadline: Friday, July 24 at 11:59 p.m.—GSK is partnering with TBF and The Philanthropic Initiative (TPI) to administer the 30th edition of the GSK IMPACT Awards for excellence in community health. This annual awards program honors up to 10 local nonprofit organizations with $50,000 in unrestricted funding. To apply, organizations must register at TPI.org by July 24. Eligible organizations will then be invited to complete their application.

Safety Net Grants

Offered twice per year (in spring and fall), the Safety Net Grants program provides $50,000 general operating support grants to social service organizations that respond to essential needs for marginalized communities and vulnerable residents in Greater Boston. These essential needs are defined as resources that restore health, wellness, safety and belonging for individuals or families in crisis.

Learn more
Chelsea Collaborative food distribution