Back to Equity and Social Justice

Access to Information

We seek to support public media outlets and other platforms that produce professional, regionally focused, fact-based news coverage and information.
See Past Grantees Since 2023
etta cetera holds a photo of co-editor Sarita Miller who is incarcerated. The Women and Trans Prisoner Defense Committee produces the magazine "Let's Get Free!" which is by and for women and transgender people who are incarcerated. (Photo credit: Renee Rosensteel.)
etta cetera holds a photo of co-editor Sarita Miller who is incarcerated. The Women and Trans Prisoner Defense Committee produces the magazine "Let's Get Free!" which is by and for women and transgender people who are incarcerated. (Photo credit: Renee Rosensteel.)

It is critical for the public to have access to reliable, trustworthy information so they may exercise their voice, participate in decision-making that affects their lives and ensure accountability of the officials elected to serve them. Unfortunately, across the country, communities have experienced a reduction in traditional news outlets, accompanied by a wave of mis- and disinformation that is amplifying distrust and concern. 

To positively impact these issues, the Foundation seeks to support:

  • Public media outlets that produce professional, regionally focused, fact-based news coverage.
  • Platforms that support the ability of residents to be the authors of their own stories and challenge harmful cultural messages that perpetuate inequity and injustice.
  • Initiatives that encourage resident education and dialogue through regularly offered, issue-based community forums that build momentum toward solutions.

Application Deadlines

Foundation-Directed GrantsApplication Deadlines*
Spring grant cycleMonday, Feb. 3, 2025 by 5 p.m.
(for funding decision after May 9)
Fall grant cycleTuesday, July 15, 2025 by 5 p.m.
(for funding decisions after Oct. 29)

*Dates above apply to most grant programs. If dates differ, they will be listed on the program page. Dates may be subject to change. The Foundation may adjust the timing of grants in consideration for funding.

Grant Guidelines

See eligibility criteria, our funding priorities, grant types, duration and award amount ranges.

How to Apply for Grants

Learn how to apply for funding through the Foundation's online grant application portal.
Michelle McMurray, MSW, Vice President, Program and Community Engagement
Contact

Michelle McMurray, MSW

Vice President, Program and Community Engagement
412-394-2610
Tika Good
Contact

Tika Good

Program Associate
412-394-4293

More Grantmaking Supporting Equity and Social Justice

The Pittsburgh Foundation also offers the following funding opportunities to eligible applicants.

Voter Engagement

We seek to support the ability of the nonprofit sector to engage historically underrepresented populations and communities that have documented low voter turnout.

Protect Basic Needs

We seek to support grassroots organizations and resident-informed initiatives that address barriers that prevent families from being able to meet their basic needs and thrive.

End Mass Incarceration

We seek to uplift and provide resources for community-led efforts to change policies and practices that result in over-policing and over-incarceration.

Youth Justice

We are interested in supporting intervention and prevention activities that support youth who have any involvement with the criminal and juvenile justice systems.