The Change Champions program was launched in 2024 to support organizations working in advocacy, policy, and systems change work to eliminate racial inequity and social injustice. The focus of this grant program is at the discretion of the Board of Directors and is voted upon at least every three years. Currently, the Foundation awards all Change Champions grants to organizations working towards equitable school funding or increasing the diversity of the teacher pipeline.
This program is open to any eligible organizations and will have one grant cycle in 2025. Grant awards will be general operating support. Grants awarded in 2025 will be two-year grants, ranging from $10,000 to $40,000 each. Please note that no new grants will be awarded in 2026 for this grant program.
• All applicants must be 501c3 charitable or fiscally sponsored organizations based and doing work in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and that impact communities in the Greater Philadelphia region
• There are no budget size restrictions for this grant program
• Organizations must be working towards equitable school funding or increasing the diversity of the school teacher pipeline
• Application form will become available to all eligible applicants on June 1, 2025
• Deadline for application submission is July 30, 2025
• The Foundation staff and Directors will review applications, with award approvals at the fall board meeting (typically held in September)
The Nelson Foundation will consider the following when evaluating applications:
o Potential to advance change in the stated issue area(s) in the Greater Philadelphia Region
o Commitment to eliminating racial inequities and social injustice for young people and families in the Greater Philadelphia Region
o Demonstrated ability to be a strong community partner
o Evidence that organizational culture centers diversity, equity, and inclusion
o Incorporation or incorporate Community voice in programs, planning, and decision-making