Small Grants
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.
Application Deadlines
The AFFA Small Grants Program accepts applications three times per year:
January 31
March 31
August 31
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:
Based in SC, NC, or GA
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit or fiscally sponsored by one
Have a nondiscriminatory policy
Committed to intersectional and social justice values
Focused on long-term change and emotional wellness for LGBTQ+ youth
Eligibility
Grantmaking Focus
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
Grant Size
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.
We encourage applicants to pursue a diversified funding strategy that includes multiple revenue sources. While continued support may be considered, AFFA generally seeks to avoid serving as the sole or primary long-term funder of the same organization or program year after year. Preference may be given to proposals from new organizations and programs and to proposals that demonstrate a clear plan for long-term sustainability. 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.
Selection Criteria
We look for organizations that show:
Youth Leadership: LGBTQ+ youth guiding programming and governance
Tangible Impact: Evidence of success or strong strategic planning
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 a Final Report, due 12 months after receiving funds (or after project completion), including:
Final outline detailing how the granted funds were used
Measured results and community impact, including (but not limited to) photographs, videos, exit surveys, and/or testimonials from program participants
Participant demographic information (age, race, orientation, gender identity)
How social justice and intersectionality were addressed within the funded programming
FAQs
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 encouraged 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
Demonstrating impact
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 grants@affa-sc.org or call (843) 883-0343 during regular business hours.