New York Foundation
/OVERVIEW: Throughout more than 100 years of grantmaking, the New York Foundation has responded to the changing needs of New York City. Current grantmaking areas include community organizing, civil and human rights, education, human services, legal services and criminal justice.
IP TAKE: The New York Foundation, a GUTC signatory, places a priority on community organizing and advocacy organizations, and all grantees share a common commitment to inspire New Yorkers to become informed and active participants in city life. This funder accepts requests for funding and has three annual deadlines for its funding cycles.
PROFILE: Since 1909, the New York Foundation, a GUTC signatory, has supported community organizing in the five boroughs of New York City. The foundation’s current aim is to support “grassroots initiatives that confront systemic barriers and inspire people to work toward a more just and inclusive city.” Its funding areas include but are not limited to civil and human rights, community development, education, human services, legal services and criminal justice. In addition to grantmaking, the foundation provides nonprofits with workshops, collaborative initiatives, internships and other learning and organizing opportunities.
Beyond justice and equity for residents of New York City, the foundation does not outline specific goals for its funding. It prioritizes organizations that operate in underserved and low-income areas of the city and that are directly involved residents who are organizing to effect change. This funder does not shy away from new organizations that address “issues that have not yet received public attention.” Recent areas of interest include community development, criminal justice reform, immigrant rights, housing and racial equity. In 2020, the foundation turned its attention to COVID-19 response and established partnerships with multiple community response initiatives throughout the city and a resource hub.
This funder makes over $2 million in grants annually, with an average grant size of about $50,000. Past grantees include the Pratt Center for Community Development, the Center for an Urban Future, Community Voices Heard, Right to Counsel NYC and the Cypress Hill Local Development Corporation. For additional information about past grantmaking, see the foundation’s past grantees and annual reports sections.
Prospective grantees should complete the initial funding request. Requests should be submitted by the first of November, March or July for consideration at the one of the foundation’s three annual board meetings. Direct general inquiries to foundation staff via email or telephone at 212-594-8009.
PEOPLE:
Search for staff contact info and bios in PeopleFinder (paid subscribers only).
LINKS: