3 Rapid Response Grants to Add to Your Radar This Month
When urgent needs arise, most grant cycles move too slowly to be useful. Rapid response funding fills the gap. These grants are designed to move quickly, offer flexible support, and help grassroots organizations take action when it matters most.
If your nonprofit is BIPOC-led or serves Black, Brown, low-income, LGBTQ+, or gender-oppressed communities, these three grants are worth your attention. Each one is open on a rolling basis. The application processes are straightforward, but funds are limited and awarded quickly. If your work fits, consider applying while support is still available.
The Mobilize Power Fund accepts applications on a rolling basis and reviews them monthly. This fund supports young Black, Brown, queer, trans, and gender-oppressed organizers who are leading gender justice work and community defense efforts. Groups can apply for up to $10,000, or up to $20,000 if applying as a coalition. Applications are accepted in writing, by phone, or by video. Nonprofit status is not required. To be eligible, groups must be youth-led and have a budget under $500,000. This fund is one of the few national resources that moves quickly, trusts grassroots leadership, and backs the kind of urgent work that often goes unsupported.
The Meyer Foundation Rapid Response Fund offers general operating grants of up to $10,000 for nonprofits facing sudden political or cultural shifts. Applications are accepted during the first two weeks of each month, with decisions made shortly after. Funding is prioritized for organizations led by and serving Black and Brown communities, LGBTQ+ people, and working-class people. While the Meyer Foundation is based in Washington, DC, the fund is open to groups across the Northeast advancing racial and economic justice. If your team is navigating a fast-moving challenge, this is one to keep on your list.
The Ben & Jerry’s Foundation Equity and Justice Rapid Response Fund provides up to $15,000 for Vermont-based groups responding to harmful policy impacts or urgent local needs. Eligible organizations must be nonprofits or fiscally sponsored projects working within the state. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and time-sensitive requests are prioritized. Priority is given to work that supports Black communities, Indigenous communities, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ people, and low-wage workers. If your organization is mobilizing quickly in response to a threat or opportunity, this is a strong option.
Rapid response grants are not just for emergencies. They are a tool for protecting hard-won progress and meeting the moment with clarity. If your organization needs support now, these three funds are open and ready.
Need help deciding which one is right for you? We offer strategy calls and grant writing support tailored to tight timelines.