AFFA Small Grants Program

AFFA Small Grants Program is sponsored by AFFA (Laughing Gull Foundation). Supports grassroots nonprofits in South Carolina (plus NC, GA) working on intersectional, youth‑centered, LGBTQ+ advocacy and social justice programming or conference attendance.

Small Grants | Empower LGBTQ+ Initiatives Today — AFFA The AFFA Small Grants Program, made possible by the Laughing Gull Foundation, provides funding for Creative Change Conference attendance, organization programming and support, and initiatives that improve the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth.

We support grassroots nonprofits across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia that are driving social change through intersectional, youth-centered, and justice-oriented work. The AFFA Small Grants Program accepts applications three times per year: All completed applications must be submitted by 11:59 p. m.

Eastern Time on the listed deadlines to be considered for that cycle. We strongly encourage early submissions. Applications will be reviewed promptly, and notifications will be sent within approximately 6–8 weeks following each deadline.

Grants will be considered for organizations that are: A 501(c)(3) nonprofit or fiscally sponsored by one Have a nondiscriminatory by policy Committed to intersectional and social justice values Focused on long-term change and emotional wellness for LGBTQ+ youth We fund a variety of projects, including: Campus programs promoting transgender inclusion Travel support for LGBTQ+ student leadership opportunities Speaker series and campus-wide awareness events LGBTQ+ youth & domestic violence education workshops Resources for LGBTQ+ campus centers Collaborative arts, film, and education projects Social programming like proms and regional GSA events Grants range from $500 to a maximum of $4,000 per organization per year .

We aim to support both emerging and established projects, with flexibility based on organizational size, scope, and need.

Organizations may be eligible for continued funding in future years , provided they: Submit timely and complete progress and final reports Demonstrate clear progress toward stated goals and measurable outcomes Show meaningful impact in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth Continue to align with AFFA’s values of equity, intersectionality, and long-term social change While grant amounts vary, priority is given to initiatives that uplift youth voices, demonstrate sustainability, and address emotional and systemic well-being for LGBTQ+ young people.

We look for organizations that show: Youth Leadership : LGBTQ+ youth guiding programming and governance Clear Planning : Goals and strategies are well-defined Measurement : Ability to track outcomes and evaluate success System-Level Change : Advocacy at community, cultural, or policy levels Diverse Funding : Especially youth-led fundraising efforts Fiscal Responsibility : Smart budgeting and in-kind support Collaboration : Working with other organizations and allies Leadership Development : Building leadership skills in LGBTQ+ youth Emotional Health : Prioritizing self-esteem and well-being Grant Reporting Requirements Grantees are expected to submit: Progress Report : 6 months post-award, sharing early outcomes Final Report : Due 12 months after receiving funds (or after project completion), including: Measured results and community impact Participant demographics (age, race, orientation, gender identity) How social justice and intersectionality were addressed Who can apply for a grant?

Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations based in South Carolina, North Carolina, or Georgia, with 501(c)(3) status or a confirmed fiscal sponsor. Your organization must also apply a nondiscrimination policy and demonstrate a commitment to intersectional social justice. What kinds of projects are most likely to be funded?

We prioritize projects that are youth-led, intersectional, collaborative, and systems-focused. Programs that foster emotional health, leadership, and long-term change in LGBTQ+ communities are strongly encouraged. Do you fund individuals or for-profit entities?

No. AFFA does not fund individuals, for-profit businesses, or organizations without a nonprofit designation or fiscal sponsorship. What if my organization is new or has never applied before? New organizations are welcome to apply!

You’ll need to show that your group has a strong plan in place and the capacity to carry it out. If you have a fiscal sponsor, be sure to include that documentation. Can an organization receive funding more than once?

Yes. Organizations may receive funding in multiple years, but renewal is contingent on: Meeting reporting requirements Continued alignment with AFFA’s goals and priorities Is there support available during the application process? Yes.

We’re happy to answer questions or provide clarification. Reach out to us at info@affa-sc. org or call (843) 883-0343 during regular business hours.