The Story of Stuff: Grassroots Grants

From The Story of Stuff

The Story of Stuff Project aims to support small organizations and groups in their efforts against water privatization and plastic pollution in the United States, emphasizing equity, inclusion, and the empowerment of communities disproportionately affected by environmental issues. It focuses on providing financial resources, media support, and strategic planning to build effective campaigns.

Type of Support

Overview

The Grassroots Grants program by the Story of Stuff Project is designed to assist underfunded organizations and communities tackling environmental and social justice challenges. Specifically targeting issues related to water privatization and plastic pollution, the program has allocated $300,000 in grants to nearly 100 grassroots groups since its inception in 2017. Aiming for a $100,000 goal in 2023, the program supports projects that involve local community participation, employ creative and strategic interventions, and pursue both defensive and solutions-focused approaches. Priority is given to funding projects led by people of color, those from low-income or rural backgrounds, and women-led organizations.

Eligibility

Organization's Location
USA
Program Location
USA
Organization Type
Other
  • Led by and serving black, indigenous, and communities of color
  • Project is campaign-focused, centering grassroots organizing, public education, training and/or capacity building
  • Project centers community-driven, strategic use of non-violent direct action
  • Project amplifies community voices in regional, national, and international forums
  • Project leverages field studies and original research to hold companies accountable
  • Supports growth for emerging grassroots organization (seed money)
  • Located in the United States

Ineligibility

Individuals
Governmental entities
Projects exclusively academic
up to 5k

Submission

Review Criteria

Our funding priorities are directed towards groups led by and serving BIPOC communities with an operational budget under $50,000. Our primary areas of concern include combating water privatization, addressing plastic pollution, and supporting initiatives within the broader scope of environmental justice.