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Nonprofits that support underserved communities have until the end of today to apply for grants from the New York State Black Legislative Task Force’s $30 million fund.
The dollars, made available for the first time in the budget, mark a necessary step forward in addressing historical disparities and strengthening social and economic infrastructure for eligible nonprofits, officials say.
First established in 2022, the NYSBLT—a group of Black legislators—has provided resources and sponsored legislation to advance economic and racial empowerment for Black communities.
Last week, Assemblymember Demond Meeks and state Sen. Samra Brouk, both members of the task force, hosted an informational panel at Aenon Missionary Baptist Church as part of the task force’s statewide listening tours for eligible nonprofit owners.
“This is something that Black legislators led, that we finally have enough of us in the Senate and the Assembly to really work together and to critically think about what our communities need,” said Brouk at a local tour. “Not just those of us who represent majority Black communities, but those of us who are black legislators ourselves and (who want) to make sure that we are looking at everything we do with an equity lens.”
To be eligible for grant funding, 501(c)(3) organizations must promote initiatives and programming toward:
■ arts education, which supports the safeguarding and cultivation of cultural heritage and history,
■ nonprofit capacity building through staff training, leadership development, and infrastructure investment,
■ voter education, community organizing, and civic engagement,
■ criminal justice advocacy and community-centered healing,
■ educational resources, including after-school activities, vocational training, and continuing education
■ physical, mental, and emotional wellness, and
■ workforce development and empowerment.
Eligible applicants can apply for funding in one of the categories above, or for a $25,000 flexible, non-reimbursable grant.
“This is something that is true to heart. We talk to our communities. We talk to our constituents,” said Meeks. “We know so many of the challenges of the not-for-profits, and we just thought it necessary to take the extra step to fight for additional resources.”
Though applications focused on housing and economic development are not yet open, members of the task force encouraged attendees in Rochester to file them. Applications are due Nov. 17 and are subject to final approval by the state.
“As of right now, this is a one-time fund, so we have to have very careful thoughtfulness in each step so that we can advocate our next legislative session for continued funding,” said Therese Daly, president and CEO of the United Way of New York State. “When you apply for this year’s funding, we’re hoping that it’s a long-term continual funding, but we need your help in advocating in Albany come this February and March to continue this funding.”
Narm Nathan is a Rochester Beacon contributing writer and a member of the Oasis Project’s inaugural cohort.
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