Seattle Pride Impact Fund
2025 Request for Proposals (RFP)

Seattle Pride invites nonprofit organizations serving Washington's LGBTQIA2S+ community to apply for the 2025 Seattle Pride Impact Fund. Since 2018, we have distributed over $500,000 to organizations that align with our mission to connect, strengthen, and advocate for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals through arts, culture, empowerment, and leadership.

Grant Opportunities

1. Spark Grant

Supporting grassroots programs that celebrate LGBTQIA2S+ arts, culture, and history.

• Grant Amount: Up to $3,500 in funding + $1,500 in-kind support (e.g., Alaska Airlines flight vouchers, marketing assistance).
• Focus Areas:

• Trans/GNC communities
• LGBTQIA2S+ BIPOC communities
• People with disabilities
• Youth and older adults

2. Collective Futures Grant

Empowering large-scale, collaborative initiatives driving systemic change and sustainability.

• Grant Amount: $10,000–$15,000
• Additional Support: Co-branding, staffing, logistical support, and platform sharing.
• Focus Areas:

• Arts & culture programs
• Youth leadership initiatives
• Advocacy for systemic change
• BIPOC and Trans/GNC leadership development

Eligibility Criteria

Organizations must

• be a Washington State-based 501(c)(3) or operate under a fiscal sponsor (must upload a copy of the fiscal sponsor agreement if applicable).
• serve the LGBTQIA2S+ community in Washington State.

If the above criteria are not met, we will accept applications from:

Grassroots groups and social collectives in Washington State that align with Seattle Pride's mission, even if they lack 501(c)(3) status. Alternative eligibility criteria include:

• Letters of community support.
• Proof of impact through testimonials, media, or social engagement.

Priority is given to organizations that

• have annual budgets under $500,000.
• are led by BIPOC, women, or LGBTQIA2S+ individuals.
• explicitly advocate for LGBTQIA2S+ rights.

Key Dates

• Applications Open: July 15, 2025
• Submission Deadline: September 15, 2025
• Funding Notifications: December 2025
• Project Implementation: January–September 2026
• Impact Check-ins: Ongoing, with key touchpoints in March and July 2026
• Final Reflections Due: December 15, 2026

Application Process

Step 1: Review eligibility criteria to confirm your organization qualifies.
Step 2: Prepare responses for the application questions and gather required documents (see checklist below).
Step 3: Submit the online application by September 15, 2025: Application Link.

Required Attachments:

• For 501(c)(3) organizations or organizations with fiscal sponsors:

• 501(c)(3) Determination Letter
• IRS Form 990 - three most recent filings preferred if available
• Project Budget (Download Template)
• Completed W-9 form (Download Here)
• Board of Directors list (optional)
• Staff/leadership involved in the project (optional)
• Fiscal sponsor agreement (if applicable)

• For grassroots groups: Community endorsements, impact statements, and project budget.

• Community Endorsements
• Impact Statements
• Project Budget (Download Template)
• Completed W-9 form (Download Here)
• Key volunteers or leaders (optional)

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on the following factors:

1. Impact & Alignment – How well the project aligns with Seattle Pride’s mission and focus areas.
2. Community Engagement – Level of involvement from LGBTQIA2S+ communities.
3. Feasibility & Sustainability – Realistic goals, timelines, and resource allocation.
4. Creativity & Innovation – Unique approach and potential for impact.
5. Budget Transparency – Clarity and justification of funding request.

Scoring Rubric

Applications will be assessed based on the following scoring rubric:

Funding Use Guidelines

Eligible Activities Include:

• Events celebrating LGBTQIA2S+ arts and culture.
• Intersectional events promoting unity across LGBTQIA2S+ identities.
• Capacity-building initiatives.
• Programs addressing LGBTQIA2S+ discrimination.

Ineligible Activities Include:

• Politically partisan events.
• Invite-only or members-only events.
• Ticketed events exceeding $10 admission.
• Events outside of Washington State.
• Retroactive funding for completed events.
• Events primarily designed for profit or personal financial gain, regardless of ticket pricing.

Reporting Requirements

To align with a trust-based philanthropy approach, reporting will focus on relationship building and impact storytelling:

• Post-Event Check-ins: Scheduled phone or video calls to discuss successes and challenges.
• Final Reflection Report: A brief narrative, participant feedback, and media content.
• Grantee Support: Seattle Pride will provide technical assistance for data collection and storytelling.

Funding Disbursement

Seattle Pride aims to make funding accessible and flexible to support project success.

• First Disbursement: 70% in February 2026 or at the start of project.
• Second Disbursement: 30% upon completion of a post-event check-in call and submission of impact reflections (photos, testimonials, or other media).

Marketing and Media Requirements

Grantees must acknowledge Seattle Pride's support in project materials and provide Seattle Pride:

• Photos or press materials demonstrating impact
• Logos and branding materials

Seattle Pride will provide media guidelines and logo assets upon grant approval.

Contact Us

For additional support, applicants can review our Frequently Asked Questions or email grants@seattlepride.org.