Through IDEA Grants, we aim to:

• Strengthen the growth, sustainability, and community impact of Black-led nonprofits
• Foster a supportive network among these organizations
• Promote equity-focused capacity building that can be replicated across the nonprofit sector

At AFF, equity means ensuring fair access to resources and opportunities. IDEA Grants reflect our commitment to:

• Elevating voices that are often underrepresented in philanthropy
• Sharing our knowledge and tools to support local leaders
• Addressing historical underinvestment in Black-led organizations by committing funding and long-term support

By supporting nonprofits led by Black board members, executive directors, and senior staff, we aim to build lasting economic and social power in communities of color.

IDEA Grants are open to Black-led nonprofits based in or serving Frederick County.

Additional eligibility requirements:

• Tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code (or fiscally sponsored by a tax-exempt organization)
• Should not be in the startup phase (typically defined as operating for less than two years)
• Must be actively providing services during the past year
• Able to provide an operating budget with revenue and expenses
• Clearly defined mission
• 100% board giving.  Moderate to larger-sized organizations should have at least six board members.  Smaller or emergent organizations should have three-to-four board members
• Current status with Maryland Secretary of State Charities Registration

Can I apply for more than one grant at the same time?

• Absolutely. Organizations can consider applying for different grants simultaneously from the Foundation.  Some grants may not be a good fit for every organization and you are encouraged to review all of the types of available grants and speak with a staff representative if you have additional questions.

What grants are available?

• Traditional IDEA Grants provide general operational support to advance an organization’s overall mission and services. These grants are designed to support emergent or smaller nonprofits.
• IDEA Consulting Grants are available to support an organization while they develop a strategic road map in their growth as an organization.  Awardees may receive grant funding to pay an outside consultant.
• Single Year Grants are both for general operations and/or capacity building and usually for established organizations with a moderate to larger size operating budget.
• Requested dollar amounts should be in line with operating costs or the proposed project or activities.  As such, grant amounts should correspond appropriately with the annual organization operating budget.

For more information, please e-mail gro.namrehsua@ofni or join one of the information sessions.

Monthly Grant Information Session – Register Here

Applicants are encouraged to actively participate in AFF’s Capacity Building Trainings and Networking Events to become familiar with the AFF grant making process.  Learn more here.

Questions?
Contact:
gro.namrehsua@ofni

Dr. Denise Rollins, IDEA Committee Chair — moc.liamg@snilloresinedrd