Grant Types
General Operating Support/Project Grants
Grants aim to strengthen the grassroots community in New York City working for social justice goals. The program issues requests for proposals to support efforts that expand community outreach, advocacy, services, and collaboration among grassroots organizations.
Renewal Grants
In 2009, the Union Square Awards issued renewal grants for the first time. Responding to grantees' needs during the economic downturn, the program ensured that critical community work was supported. Grantees will be considered for renewals again in 2010.
Special Achievement
The 10th year of the founding of the Union Square Awards was an opportune moment to give special recognition to the achievements of past recipients. Awardees continue to engage in exceptional work at the forefront of the social justice community and distinguished themselves locally, nationally and internationally, building organizations that mobilize new communities and revitalize civic engagement.
Mini Grants
Launched in 2005, the Union Square Awards’ mini grants program assists grantees with short-term projects that build organizational capacity and are linked to ongoing work. Mini-grants range up to $2,000. The mini-grants program suspended in 2009 has been resumed for calendar year 2010.