The intent is that all three areas be connected and addressed at some level. We view these Program Focus Areas working together as necessary for transformation. Ultimately, we believe the foundation for transformational change lies in building community power.

All applications for Equity Program Grants are by invitation only.    

These Grants Support 
  • Applicants that clearly and directly address one or more of the Program Focus Areas: 
    • Building Community Power grants will support groups that are investing in communities of color living in poverty to build power and lead a broader coalition to confront racism and poverty in our schools and society.
    • Disrupting Institutional Inequity grants will support groups that are disrupting narratives, practices and structures typical of the ways education and other institutions perpetuate racial and economic disparities. 
    • Transforming Key Systems grants will support work that is providing new solutions and methods for changing educational structures needed for the success, and ultimately liberation of marginalized communities. 
  • 501(c) 3 public charities or groups supported by a 501(c) 3 fiscal sponsor organization

The Memorial Fund Typically Does Not Support 
  • Efforts narrowly focused on helping individuals navigate oppressive systems, without engaging in changing such systems.
  • Private foundations, Type III supporting organizations, or other organizations that require expenditure responsibility by the Foundation
  • Sponsorships and Fundraising Events
  • Work that is not based in Connecticut 
  • Extracurricular activities and academic enrichment or assistance programs
The Memorial Fund Does Not Support 
  • Lobbying 
  • Organizations that discriminate on the basis of religion, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, race, ethnicity, or disabilities.
  • Specific religious activities or organizations that require adherence to a religion or belief
  • Endowments or capital campaigns
  • Direct grants to individuals
  • Scholarship programs
  • Direct grants to State or Municipal Governments or School Districts
APPLICATION PROCESS 

All applications for Equity Program Grants are by invitation only.

We are committed to creating a more equitable application process that relies more on conversation and dialogue than written words. If an invitation to apply is extended, we will provide further instructions.