LGBTQ+ Opportunity Fund of the Cleveland Foundation Opens First Round of Grantmaking

CLEVELAND, OH – The LGBTQ+ Opportunity Fund of the Cleveland Foundation today announced the opening of the first grantmaking cycle for the fund, a permanent philanthropic resource dedicated to leveraging philanthropy to empower LGBTQ+ communities across Greater Cleveland. 

Applications are now being accepted through Aug. 1, 2025.  

The fund’s advisory committee, comprised of local leaders and community advocates, has outlined two key strategic priorities for this round of grantmaking: 

• Community Network Building: Includes grants to organizations focused on building and/or strengthening networks and connections within the LGBTQ+ community. Projects for consideration may include, but are not limited to:   

• Advocacy and community organizing    

• Expanding allyship and community partnerships 

• Visibility & Narrative Change: Includes grants for projects aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community’s lived experience. Projects for consideration may include, but are not limited to:   

• Elevating the LGBTQ+ lived experience   

• Educating individuals, groups and/or corporations  

“Today marks a meaningful milestone for the LGBTQ+ Opportunity Fund, which the Cleveland Foundation has proudly endowed,” said Andrew Katusin, director of community philanthropy at the Cleveland Foundation. “I am incredibly grateful for the work of our committee in leading the way to identify the priorities that will guide the fund’s grantmaking and make a meaningful impact on Cleveland’s LGBTQ+ community.” 

The LGBTQ+ Opportunity Fund was launched in 2024 with a $3-million endowment and a mission to empower LGBTQ+ communities by leveraging philanthropy. The fund’s focus areas were informed by findings from the Greater Cleveland LGBTQ+ Community Needs Assessment and shaped by ongoing conversations with local LGBTQ+ leaders and organizations. 

“The LGBTQ+ Opportunity Fund is game-changing.  For the first time, we will have a coordinated effort to leverage philanthropy to advance queer justice and equity in Greater Cleveland,” said Marques Hillman Richeson, a member of the LGBTQ+ Opportunity Fund Committee.  “This fund will impact LGBTQ+ communities and change lives for years to come.  It’s exciting to be a part of that movement.” 

Any organization with a 501(c)(3) designation eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions can apply for grants. Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to visit the LGBTQ+ Opportunity Fund website to review full eligibility guidelines and submit an application before the Aug. 1 deadline. The committee expects to award approximately $150,000 total in grants during this first round of grantmaking.