Social Justice Programs Grants

Social Justice Programs Grants is sponsored by Various (often local/regional foundations). Nonprofits focused on social justice can apply for funding to support projects that address displacement, inequality, and related challenges.

Headwaters Foundation for Justice Amplify the power of community to advance equity and justice. Since 1984, Headwaters Foundation for Justice has resourced movement organizations that are too often overlooked or excluded by mainstream philanthropy. Our grantmaking supports organizations and groups on the front lines of social change.

We believe that the people who directly experience society’s injustices are the ones who know the path to collective liberation. Community-led Grantmaking Each of our programs engages community leaders, advocates, and volunteers in unique ways. We put decision-making power into the hands of our communities because we believe that's the way to collective liberation.

As a people-powered community foundation, we need your participation. Gifts of all sizes are honored and appreciated. Donations collected from individuals are pooled and moved out into community as large-scale, multi-year grants to grassroots organizations working to advance equity and justice.

Our donors and volunteers are a brilliant and diverse cross-section of Minnesotans. You’re most welcome to join us! Our grantees are unapologetic in their fight for liberation.

We are called to be just as bold in organizing our philanthropic peers towards a new way of funding social change. We partner with local, regional, and national philanthropic funders as an intermediary to put money back into the hands of community decision-makers. Fighting for Collective Liberation We distribute multi-year, general operating grants of various sizes through our four unique grant programs.

All of our grantmaking prioritizes BIPOC-led organizations leading work toward justice and collective liberation. There is wisdom in a collective process. That's why we recruit, train, and entrust people from the community to serve on committees that make decisions about which organizations to resource.

Fund of the Sacred Circle The Fund of the Sacred Circle (FSC) is HFJ’s longest-standing fund. Since 1999, FSC grants have been investing in Native-led organizations in Minnesota that focus on community organizing, self-determination and sovereignty, and systems change.

Fund of the Sacred Circle Justice & Liberation Fund The Justice & Liberation (J&L) Fund provides financial resources to Black-led groups working on the frontlines of justice. This fund is housed within the Black Radiance Network, a community-powered network, created by and for Black leaders who are reshaping our state.

Justice & Liberation Fund Rapid Response grants support strategic organizing in response to unexpected events, urgent challenges, or rapidly emerging political moments. There are 8 rounds of Rapid Response grantmaking in the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Organizations must complete an eligibility inquiry form before submitting an application.

Members of the Giving Project cohort raise the funds to support the Giving Project Grant, r ead and evaluate grant applications, conduct site visits with organizations, and make collective decisions about which organizations will be selected for funding. Advance Equity. Demand Inclusion.

Transform Power. Trust in Community. $100,000 for Safe and Fair Elections 2026-2027 Rapid Response Fund Cycles Open in August Bridging Ecosystems: Investing in the Leaders Building Our Movements Solidarity in Uncertain Times: Fund of the Sacred Circle 2026 Grantees “This was the first time I’ve ever donated a big chunk of money.

I don’t look at money with a scarcity mindset anymore. Let me give because money can truly heal. Money can be used as medicine.

” Giving Project Program Alum & HFJ Donor Granted by Headwaters during Fiscal Year 2024. Number of grants awarded to organizations across Minnesota during Fiscal Year 2024.