Grantmaking

SOUTHERN PARTNERS FUND

Democratic Philanthropy In Action

Our operating and grantmaking decisions are made by folks who have been impacted by injustice rather than by academics and outside experts. We believe we know more about the needs of our communities.

Overview: Regular Grantmaking Cycle

SPF’s grantee partners are transforming their communities by building sustainable organizations aimed at reversing the inequities of the rural South. They are learning not to focus on the symptoms of inequities, but on the root cause; racist and anti immigrant mindsets of small-town mayors  and city council members. SPF’s grantees are tackling social and economic systems that for them have been rooted in persistent poverty and lack of resources, compounded by poorly performing schools.

We are proud to partner with extraordinary community organizations and coalitions through our regular grants cycle, assisting them to build capacity and power. We believe general operating support is best for building capacity, particularly for small to midsize community-based organizations in the rural South.

In 2013, SPF’s board adopted its Southern Organizing Strategy, focusing 60% of grant funds on three special initiatives:

  • Voter Rights & Engagement
  • Immigration Rights
  • Education Reform

In 2019, under the banner of “revolutionary change,” SPF’s board decided to target nearly 60% of grants funds on the integration of census work into these ongoing initiatives. In 2020, 60% of grants will be devoted to integrating redistricting work into these three special initiatives. 

The remaining 40% of grants will continue to fund:

  • Environmental Justice
  • Healthcare Reform
  • Women & Girls' Leadership
  • Economic Justice
  • Incarceration Reform
  • Youth Leadership
  • Housing Reform
  • LGBTQ Rights
  • Disability Rights