Mini Grants

Mini Grants Initiative Request for Proposals

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Applications Open June 30, 2023
Deadline to apply is August 4, 2023
Awardees will be announced in September 2023

Vibrant Pittsburgh and the Urban Affairs Foundation, which is a part of the Community Relations Council (CRC) of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh — have joined forces to implement this year’s Mini Grants Initiative: Retention of Diverse Talent. This fund will promote diverse communities in the Pittsburgh region. Each organization has committed $25,000 to create a $50,000 pool to fund projects that increase the civic engagement of diverse and immigrant communities. For the first time ever, two winning organizations will be awarded $25,000 each. This year’s theme is focused on retention of diverse talent in the city of Pittsburgh. 

Eligible Projects

Eligible projects will tackle the vital work of diverse talent retention in the greater Pittsburgh region.

Projects eligible for funding should:

  • Create opportunities for civic engagement that result in a more inclusive and engaged multicultural region, and  
  • Be collaborative by engaging diverse communities, organizations, or partners.  

Past Vibrant Pittsburgh Mini Grants have funded health and human services, housing, education, mentoring, professional networking, social support, welcoming initiatives, and job-connection programs for refugees and immigrants.  

 

Who Can Apply?

Funding through the Vibrant Pittsburgh-Urban Affairs Foundation’s Retention of Diverse Talent initiative will be available to applicants selected through a competitive proposal process. Lead organizations must maintain a physical presence in the Pittsburgh-New Castle-Weirton Combined Statistical Area and have 501(c)3 non-profit status. Organizations can partner with other nonprofits, academic institutions, religious organizations, community groups, businesses and employee resource groups.  

Selection Process

All applications are screened by staff from Vibrant Pittsburgh and the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh. Selected proposals are reviewed by the Mini Grant Review Committee comprised of representatives from Vibrant Pittsburgh and the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh’s Community Relations Council.

Funding Criteria

The Mini Grants initiative considers funding requests for both new and continuing initiatives. Past Mini Grants funding recipients are encouraged to apply.