Are you a youth-centered organization working at the intersection of environmental justice, food sovereignty, and community empowerment? The Cedar Tree Foundation invites you to apply for its Rooted in Justice Program, a grant initiative designed to uplift youth-led and youth-serving efforts that advance environmental and food justice across the U.S.
🟢 About the Program
The Rooted in Justice Program supports grassroots organizations that center youth leadership in environmental and food justice work. Grants are typically $25,000 per year for up to two years, with additional capacity-building support available.
🔍 Who Can Apply
This year, eligible applicants must be located in one or more of the following states:
Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C.
Additional eligibility criteria:
Organizations of any size may apply, but preference is given to those with budgets under $800,000.
Programs must be already established. RIJ funds cannot be used to start new programs or pilot new work.
Applicants must be U.S.-based nonprofits or fiscally sponsored projects.
Must work directly with youth ages 14–24 in environmental or food justice.
Must prioritize BIPOC youth leadership and community-rooted approaches.
RIJ funds cannot be used for:
Individuals
Lobbying or partisan political activity
Re-granting programs
Organizations with a religious affiliation or mission
New or pilot programs
For-profit organizations
đź“… Deadline
Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) will be accepted through Thursday, October 2nd, 2025.
🌟 What They Fund
The Foundation prioritizes:
Youth-led urban agriculture and food justice programs
Environmental education and leadership development
Community-based initiatives that build power and resilience
📬 How to Apply
Visit the Rooted in Justice Grants page to learn more about eligibility, past grantees, and the application process. The Foundation encourages applications from BIPOC-led organizations and those working in historically underfunded communities.
đź’ˇ Why It Matters
This grant opportunity is a powerful resource for organizations nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards and justice advocates. If your work aligns with these values, don’t miss the chance to apply and grow your impact.
Malcolm X once said, “A man who stands for nothing will fall for anything.” These words resonate as a call to action—not just for individuals, but for entire communities striving for justice, equality, and dignity. Decades after his passing, Malcolm X’s legacy remains a beacon, illuminating the path forward for grassroots organizations and community organizers dedicated to societal change.
From Complexity, Clarity
Malcolm X was a man of complexity and therein lies his power. Born Malcolm Little in 1925, he transformed through stages of self-discovery—from troubled youth to charismatic leader of the Nation of Islam, and, finally, to an evolving global thinker and advocate for human rights. His willingness to challenge systems of power and even his own ideologies taught us that growth is not just possible but essential.
For community organizers working tirelessly today, this message of transformation is more relevant than ever. Like Malcolm X, your ability to adapt and respond to new challenges and insights can redefine what’s possible within your neighborhoods and coalitions.
Lessons in Courage and Conviction
Malcolm X’s unwavering bravery in the face of institutional oppression is a lesson in the power of conviction. He recognized that true change requires sacrifice, collective action, and speaking truths that may be uncomfortable for those benefiting from the status quo.
For grassroots organizations, this courage translates into advocating for policies and systemic reforms even when resources are stretched thin. It also means standing unapologetically for marginalized communities, ensuring their voices echo through decision-making halls.
Unity Without Uniformity
One of Malcolm X’s most impactful revelations came later in life after his pilgrimage to Mecca. Witnessing people of all races united under one purpose opened his mind to the idea of inclusivity on a global level. He shifted from advocating solely for Black separatism to a broader vision of solidarity and interconnected humanity.
Grassroots groups today can draw inspiration from this evolution. Collaboration across diverse communities and causes doesn’t dilute your mission; it strengthens it. Coalition building, much like Malcolm’s evolving principles, is about finding common ground and amplifying collective strength to dismantle systemic barriers.
Action Through Education
Malcolm X’s belief that “Education is our passport to the future” emphasizes that knowledge is power. He understood that an informed community is an empowered one, capable of challenging oppression and rewriting their future. He was known to devour books, equipping himself with the tools to effectively dismantle narratives of inferiority.
For activists and organizers, engaging your communities through education builds a foundation for sustainable change. Whether it’s hosting workshops, sharing resources, or leveraging platforms like social media, investing in knowledge is one of the most powerful ways to continue Malcolm X’s legacy.
Relevance Today
Malcolm X’s emphasis on self-determination, justice, and accountability feels just as urgent now as it did in the 1960s. Amidst rising inequalities, racial disparities, and systemic challenges, his teachings provide a roadmap for today’s movements. They remind us that change is possible when communities come together to challenge the systems that perpetuate injustice.
For grassroots organizations, the mission aligns directly with his values. You are the champions of your communities, carving out pockets of equality, justice, and opportunity, just as Malcolm X envisioned.
Your Role in the Ongoing Legacy
Reflecting on Malcolm X’s impact invites a question for all of us, especially community organizers and advocacy groups. How will you carry his torch forward? His teachings spark an enduring challenge—to not just fight for change, but to embody it continuously.
Just as Malcolm X evolved, so must today’s leaders and organizations. Take the time to assess your strategies, grow your coalitions, and refine your missions. Change starts small but grows mighty when fueled by conviction and unity.
Inspired to Act
Malcolm X didn’t just leave behind words; he left behind action. He left behind a legacy urging us to confront oppression, stand in solidarity, and always seek growth. Whether you’re advocating for affordable housing, racial equity, or environmental justice, your work as community organizers embodies this legacy.
And as we reflect on his message, let’s also extend it forward. Share stories that engage your community. Build coalitions that break barriers. Educate others with thoughtful and actionable insights. The values Malcolm X championed remain bedrock principles for creating lasting change in every corner of society.
At Wisdom Born Consulting LLC, our purpose has always been rooted in transformation—not just of businesses and organizations, but of lives and legacies. Today, we are delighted to share news that echoes the very essence of our mission. New funding opportunities are now available, waiting to empower aspiring entrepreneurs, community leaders, and visionaries to bring their dreams to life.
These opportunities are more than financial resources; they are pathways to possibility. Like seeds waiting to be nurtured, they carry the potential to grow into thriving enterprises that serve, inspire, and uplift.
Funding as a Catalyst for Growth
For countless small businesses, community-based and grassroots organizations, funding is not just capital; it is the heartbeat of progress. It is the energy that transforms ideas scribbled on paper into community projects, services and ventures that touch lives. We see funding as an instrument of change, a bridge between vision and reality.
These new funding options have been curated with the understanding that every dream deserves the chance to flourish. They are designed to support initiatives that align with the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, helping to shape futures that reflect the beauty of collective growth.
Who Can Access These Opportunities?
At Wisdom Born Consulting LLC, we hold a deep conviction that extraordinary potential resides in every individual and every community. These funding opportunities are open to those who seek to make a difference—not just in their own lives, but in the lives around them.
Whether you are a small business owner striving to expand, a nonprofit looking to deepen your impact, or a startup founder with a world-changing idea, these opportunities can serve as the foundation for your next chapter.
A Journey of Support and Partnership
Just as a river nourishes the land it flows through, our approach at Wisdom Born Consulting LLC is one of stewardship and partnership. We are not simply announcing funding; we are extending a hand to guide you through the process. From identifying the right funding opportunity to crafting your application, our team is here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Beyond securing financial support, we seek to equip you with the tools, insights, and strategies needed to maximize this investment in your future. Together, we can ensure that these resources are not just short-term solutions but catalysts for sustainable and meaningful growth.
A Call to Action
Today, we invite you to reflect on the vision you hold, the dream that stirs your heart and awakens your spirit. What could you achieve with the right support? How could your passion, paired with these opportunities, transform not only your life but the lives of others?
To explore these new funding possibilities and how Wisdom Born Consulting LLC can help you access them, reach out to our team. Together, we will turn possibilities into realities, nurturing the seeds of your vision until they flourish.
At Wisdom Born, we believe that the future is not something we wait for; it is something we create. With these new funding opportunities, we are holding the door open to a brighter tomorrow. Will you walk through it?
For more details or to begin your funding journey, contact us at wisdombornconsulting@gmail.com. Together, let’s take the first step toward a future that reflects the power of your dreams.
The Nathan Cummings Foundation (NCF) is currently accepting Letter of Inquiry (LOI) submissions until June 30, 2025, and will start accepting LOI submissions again this year, starting October 1, 2025. This grant funding opportunity is aimed at supporting innovative projects that align with NCF’s mission to promote social justice, environmental sustainability, and cultural enrichment. This initiative invites nonprofits and organizations to submit proposals that address pressing societal issues, particularly those that foster systemic change and empower marginalized communities. By providing funding and resources, the foundation seeks to amplify the voices of those advocating for impactful solutions while fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines available on the foundation’s website to ensure their proposals align with the foundation’s strategic priorities.
KidsGardening is an organization dedicated to inspiring and educating children about gardening and the environment. They provide resources, activities, and programs aimed at helping kids of all ages learn about growing plants, understanding nature, and developing a love for gardening.
The organization offers a variety of resources such as lesson plans, gardening projects, and articles that cover topics like planting, soil health, and sustainable practices. Their goal is to encourage hands-on learning and foster a connection between children and the natural world. By engaging in gardening activities, kids can develop important skills like responsibility, teamwork, and an appreciation for healthy food.
KidsGardening also emphasizes the importance of community and encourages schools, families, and organizations to start their own gardening projects. Overall, it’s a wonderful initiative that combines education, fun, and environmental stewardship.
2025 Lots of Compassion Grant
In collaboration, Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day and KidsGardening have established the Lots of Compassion Grant program to empower local leaders in their efforts to turn vacant lots into vibrant gardens that foster compassion within their communities. For the year 2025, ten selected grantees will each be awarded $20,000 to convert a vacant lot into a flourishing garden. This initiative will distribute a total of $200,000 annually. The deadline for application submission is Monday, June 16, 2025, at 11:59 PM PT/8:59 PM ET
Don’t miss out on valuable funding opportunities for 2025! We invite you to subscribe to Wisdom Born Consulting, LLC for the latest updates and information on grants and resources available to support your initiatives. By subscribing, you’ll stay informed about new opportunities that can help you make a meaningful impact in your community. Join our community today and be the first to know about exciting funding possibilities!
The Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) has launched its Good Jobs in Clean Energy Prize via the American Made Challenges Program. Through this funding opportunity, the DOE is looking to find and support new and newly focused placed-based coalitions that will help make sure clean energy jobs are created in communities that are high quality and accessible to target populations. The DOE is also looking to Increase long-term engagement of relevant place-based coalitions serving target populationswith clean energy employment opportunities and develop place-based strategies consistent with DOE’s job quality and DEIA priorities in clean energy (including implementation of the Justice40 Initiative) and EERE’s focus on implementing clean energy technologies equitably.
The Justice40 Initiative is a federal effort launched by the Biden administration aimed at directing at least 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to address environmental justice, climate change, and economic inequality. The Justice40 Initiative is a significant step toward integrating social justice into federal policy and investment decisions, aiming to create a more equitable future for all communities.
The Good Jobs in Clean Energy Prize consists of three phases, with a total prize pool of $3,375,000.
Important details for Phase One Prize competitors:
1. Coalitions must include at least one entity from each of the following organization types: labor organization, clean energy employer, community-based organization, public agencies, and education and workforce provider.
2. Each coalition member must submit and sign an Evidence of Commitment letter detailing their commitment to the coalition and planned activity.
3. The clean energy employment opportunities of most interest to DOE for this prize are middleskill occupations in the manufacturing and construction industries.
Up to 15 coalitions will receive a Phase One prize of $50,000 each. Only these coalitions will be eligible to continue in the competition and compete in Phase Two.
Important details for Phase Two Prize competitors:
1. Only Phase One winners can compete in Phase Two of the Prize.
2. Coalitions must participate in a virtual DOE-provided High Road training and submit a Coalition Action Plan to be eligible to win Phase Two.
All winners of Phase One are eligible to compete in Phase Two. Up to 10 coalitions will be selected to receive a Phase Two prize of $100,000 each.
Important details for Phase Three Prize competitors:
1. Only Phase Two winners can compete in Phase Three of the Prize.
2. Each Phase Two winner has the opportunity to win a prize in Phase Three.
All winners of Phase Two are eligible to compete in Phase Three. Up to 10 coalitions will be selected to receive a Phase Three prize. First place will receive $300,000; second place will receive $250,000; third place will receive $200,000 total; and 7 coalitions will receive runner-up prizes of $125,000 each.
Key Dates:
â—Ź Phase One Submission Opens: August 1, 2024 â—Ź Phase One Submission Closes: 5 p.m. ET on January 31, 2025 â—Ź Phase One Winner Announcement: March 31, 2025 (anticipated) â—Ź Phase Two Submission Opens: March 31, 2025 (anticipated) â—Ź Phase Two Submission Closes: 5 p.m. ET on September 30, 2025 (anticipated) â—Ź Phase Two Winner Announcement: November 20, 2025 (anticipated) â—Ź Phase Three Submission Opens: November 20, 2025 (anticipated) â—Ź Phase Three Submission Closes: November 20, 2026 (anticipated) â—Ź Phase Three Winner Announcement: January 20, 2027 (anticipated)
How to Enter:
Go to the HeroX prize page: Good Jobs in Clean Energy Prize and follow the instructions for registering and submitting all required materials before the deadline in the Key Dates section of this document and as displayed on the HeroX prize page timeline. Competitors may also form coalitions or find partners through the HeroX platform.
By: Natisha Jordan | Wisdom Born Consulting, LLC – GrantWise Solutions Initiative
The Lawrence Foundation will be accepting grant applications from nonprofit organizations whose work addresses the following:
Environment (US headquartered orgnizations operating programs in the US or anywhere in the world)
Human Services
Disaster Relief (US headquartered organizations responding to disasters in the US or elsewhere in the world on an occassional basis)
Grant awards typically range from $5,000 – $10,000. Grant requests for general operating and program/project costs that fall in line with funding interests are accepted.
(Originally posted on LinkedIn on 6/9/2024 by Wisdom Born Consulting)
Often overlooked yet profoundly impactful, empathy is the grant writer’s secret weapon. When crafting proposals, it’s not just about presenting data or outlining project goals; it’s about connecting with the reader on a human level. Understanding the needs, challenges, and aspirations of both the organization and those they serve can transform a standard application into a compelling narrative that resonates deeply.
This empathetic approach helps in crafting stories that highlight the real-world impact of a proposed project, making it more relatable and inspiring. By weaving personal anecdotes and testimonials from those who have directly benefited, the narrative gains authenticity and emotional resonance. Incorporating diverse perspectives ensures that the story appeals to a broad audience, fostering a sense of shared purpose and community. This method not only captivates the audience but also drives home the importance of the project, encouraging stakeholders to invest their time, resources, and support.
As the story unfolds, vivid descriptions and compelling visuals can paint a picture of the transformative changes the project brings about. Whether it’s a community revitalized through sustainable practices, individuals empowered by new opportunities, or ecosystems restored to their natural glory, each element of the story serves to underscore the project’s significance.
Ultimately, this empathetic storytelling approach does more than just inform; it inspires action. By connecting on a deeper emotional level, it mobilizes people to become advocates for the cause, creating a ripple effect that amplifies the project’s reach and impact. In this way, storytelling becomes a powerful tool for change, bridging the gap between vision and reality, and turning aspirations into tangible results.
Empathy fosters collaboration and trust. When grant writers genuinely understand and communicate the vision and mission of their organization, they build stronger relationships with stakeholders, partners, and funders. This mutual understanding can lead to more successful and sustainable projects, ultimately driving positive change in the communities they serve.
In essence, empathy is the bridge that connects the technical aspects of grant writing with the emotional and human elements, creating a holistic and persuasive narrative that stands out in a competitive landscape.
(Originally posted on LinkedIn on 5/29/2024 by Wisdom Born Consulting)
In a recent article, I explored how grant writing can create opportunities for both organizations and the communities they support. How do our communities specifically gain from grant writing? What doors does grant writing open for them?
Community Development
Grant writing benefits our communities in numerous ways. It provides essential financial resources that can be used to fund programs, projects, and services that directly address community needs. The process of grant writing itself often necessitates a thorough assessment of needs and resources, leading to better-informed decision-making and strategic planning. This can result in more targeted and efficient use of funds, ensuring that the initiatives supported have the greatest possible benefit.
By securing grants, nonprofits and other agencies can leverage these resources to attract further funding and investment, creating a ripple effect that amplifies their impact. These funds can support a wide range of initiatives, from educational programs and healthcare services to infrastructure improvements and social services.
Community Empowerment
Grant-funded projects provide valuable opportunities for community engagement and empowerment. By involving community members in the planning and implementation phases, projects and initiatives can foster a sense of ownership and pride, building stronger, more resilient communities. In this way, grant writing not only addresses immediate needs but also contributes to long-term community development and sustainability.
Grant writing often involves collaboration and partnerships among various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups. This collaboration can strengthen community ties and foster a sense of collective purpose and solidarity.
Capacity Building
Successful grant writing can enhance the capacity and sustainability of organizations within our communities. By securing funding, organizations can expand their reach, improve the quality of their programs and services, and invest in staff development and training. This, in turn, leads to better outcomes for the community members they serve.
Overall, grant writing is a vital tool for community development, enabling organizations to secure the necessary resources to create positive, lasting change.
Wisdom Born Consulting is dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote environmental justice and sustainability. By collaborating with organizations striving to make a positive impact on the environment, I have gained valuable insights and knowledge. Through Frontier, an Advance Market Commitment (AMC), established by Stripe, Alphabet, Shopify, Meta, McKinsey, and tens of thousands of businesses using Stripe Climate, some of the projects funded include: Spiritus (Spiritus | Home), EDAC Labs (EDAC Labs), Vycarb (Vycarb (vy-carb.com), Airhive (Airhive – Direct Air Capture for Rapid Carbon Removal and Decarbonisation), Kodama (Kodama Systems | Restoring forests for future generations) and others. Wisdom Born Consulting currently contributes 1% of its revenue to support carbon removal initiatives.
As a Stripe Climate contributor, I am committed to furthering these efforts and contributing to a more sustainable future for all. My goal is to continue learning, growing, and advocating for environmental justice in every way possible. Together, we can make a difference and create a more equitable and eco-conscious world for generations to come.
Yesterday marked the beginning of Kwanzaa, a cultural holiday celebrated in the African American/Pan African community. For me, the holiday is a reminder of why I chose to become a grant writer and help community-based, grassroots organizations. I frequently turn to Kwanzaa’s seven principles for inspiration and guidance in my work.
The seven principles of Kwanzaa are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. These principles align well with the values and goals of many community-based organizations that seek to improve the quality of life for marginalized communities. As a grant writer, I strive to support these organizations by helping them secure funding to implement their programs and initiatives.
Unity is particularly important in this work, as it requires collaboration and partnership between organizations, funders, and the communities they serve. Self-determination is also crucial, as it empowers communities to identify and address their own needs rather than relying on outside sources to dictate their priorities.
Collective work and responsibility emphasize the importance of working together to achieve common goals, while cooperative economics encourages the development of sustainable and equitable economic systems. Purpose and creativity are essential for developing innovative approaches to social issues, and faith provides a foundation of hope and resilience in the face of challenges.
By incorporating these principles into my work as a grant writer, I hope to contribute to a more just and equitable society, one that aligns with the values and goals of Kwanzaa and other cultural traditions that prioritize community empowerment and social justice.
Earlier this year, the Justice40 Accelerator community and supporters were asked to share and support calls to action to help those who have and are being affected by current climate disasters on the West coast.
To support immediate requests, please view these links:
For information on how the Justice40 Accelerator is working toassist community-based organizations advance equity driven climate and environmental justice solutions and the Justice40 cohort organizations please visit Justice40 Accelerator.
