Rising Leaders Grant Application

The Woodson Center is pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for our Rising Leaders Mini-Grant!

This grant is specifically designed for people with these three qualities in mind:

1. You have a heart to bring positive change in your community.

There are so many problems in our communities today with no solutions offered by national politicians and policymakers. This grant is for those who desire to offer practical, effective solutions to their underserved community.

2. You need some help getting started.

Everyone begins somewhere. And as a rising leader, you need all the support you can get. If you are awarded this grant, you will receive $1000 and support from our Neighborhood Leadership Development Institute, which is a robust online course system to develop your leadership skillset. We will be with you—every step of the way.

3. You are looking to grow together.

We are at our best when we mobilize together. For this reason, we are looking for individuals who desire partnership and are committed to learning and teaching others. By joining our Community Affiliates Network (CAN), you will be able to meet like-minded people who are just as passionate about serving their communities all throughout the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to have a 501(c)3 non-profit status?

This grant is for rising leaders, regardless of their non-profit status. At the same time, we do ask that you have some organizational plan and structure in mind.

What can I use this grant for?

The rising leaders grant is specifically designed to be flexible to your needs, meaning that it can be used for a variety of expenses that best help move your vision and organization forward. In most cases, we expect that this grant will be used for general operating funds, supplies, and administration fees alongside events or programming.

I’m not sure if this grant is for me. I think I’m underqualified.

It never hurts to apply! While you might not be awarded this year, you can still have the opportunity to join our NDLI program and CAN community. This way, you can reapply with a stronger application in the following year.

I’m not sure if this grant is for me. I think I’m overqualified.

We anticipate that most applicants for this grant will lead organization that are less than three years old or have not yet become a 501 (c)3 non-profit. Another grant is available for those that are more experienced in their organizational development and programming that offers $5,000. If you are still unsure, please reach out to use at minigrants@woodsoncenter.org.