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Youth Philanthropy Council Grant Cycle for 2026 is open now through January 2, 2026!
As a group of philanthropic young people, we aim to support community efforts that involve youth. We believe our generation plays a vital role in shaping the future and addressing the root causes that affect quality of life for both current and future generations. In 2026, our grants will focus on the following priority areas:
Pathways to Opportunity: We support programs and organizations that create equitable learning experiences for students across the greater Birmingham area. This includes efforts that ensure safe, high-quality educational environments; expand cultural perspectives; and bridge access to higher education and economic opportunity, including workforce readiness. Safe & Inclusive Spaces: We value safe, inclusive spaces for youth—especially those that celebrate personal expression, protect individuals from violence, and foster open discussions around discrimination. Thriving Communities: We care deeply about strengthening our communities and supporting innovative solutions that provide support for marginalized populations, including those who are unhoused, displaced, or living in rural areas. This may include programs addressing issues such as food access, public and mental health, and environmental sustainability. |
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Objective: Learn about real community challenges and how philanthropy is used to address long-term objectives to improve quality of life for all. Goal: Decide the most impactful community investment of $20,000 via an anonymous donor. All organizations must either serve youth or use youth volunteers.
At the beginning of the year, the group learns about their city, hears from experts about challenges in the community and how challenges are being addressed. Then the research phase begins and the group finalizes funding guidelines for the year. They create an RFP and make lists of organizations to invite to apply. The deadline is mid January. They host a retreat to review and present each application and make the first round of difficult decisions of which will move forward and which to apply again another time. They conduct site visits (in designated small groups) for each of the organizations moving forward throughout the month of January/February. They host a final voting retreat at the end of February, in which each site visit small group make a formal presentations to the full council. |
