Back to Equity and Social Justice

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.
See Past Grantees Since 2023
The Foundation seeks to support the ability of the nonprofit sector to engage historically underrepresented populations and communities that have documented low voter turnout.
The Foundation seeks to support the ability of the nonprofit sector to engage historically underrepresented populations and communities that have documented low voter turnout.

Nothing is more fundamental to our democracy than the right to vote. However, there was a time in our nation’s history when many, including women and Black people, did not have access to the ballot and/or were prevented through legal means and violence from exercising this right. Through a series of constitutional amendments and legislative actions implemented over the years, all Americans now have the right to equal, unencumbered access to the ballot. However, voter suppression efforts are not a thing of the past. Since the 2013 Supreme Court ruling to remove federal oversight of state voting rules, there has been a surge in state bills to limit voter access. 

We seek to support the ability of the nonprofit sector to engage historically underrepresented populations and communities that have documented low voter turnout. Engagement will occur within and beyond election cycles to ensure every eligible voter has a voice in our democracy at all levels. 

Specifically, we are interested in supporting the following activities:

  • Non-partisan voter education, including efforts that teach residents about the electoral process and how government works and build knowledge about the candidates and relevant issues in any given election cycle. 
  • Non-partisan registration and turnout, including Get-Out-The-Vote events, door-knocking/ canvassing, and efforts to eliminate logistical barriers to voting. This includes ensuring that voters have accurate polling location information and transportation to the polls. 
  • Voter access: Advance reforms that preserve existing rights and support inclusive ballot practices.

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.

Access to Information

We seek to support public media outlets and other platforms that produce professional, regionally focused, fact-based news coverage and information.

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.