Deadline: 17-Jul-2026
The Mildred’s Dream Foundation (MDF) is accepting grant applications from eligible nonprofit organizations working in education, violence prevention and survivor support, and physical and mental health. Grants of up to $25,000 are available to support programs and projects that improve outcomes for children, families, and underserved populations while addressing critical community needs.
About the Grant Program
The Mildred’s Dream Foundation provides funding to nonprofit organizations that align with its mission of supporting vulnerable individuals and strengthening communities through education, health services, and violence prevention initiatives.
The foundation prioritizes programs that improve access to opportunities, address barriers faced by underserved populations, and provide meaningful support to individuals and families experiencing hardship or trauma.
Funding Information
- Maximum Grant Amount: Up to $25,000 per project
- Typical Grant Range: $5,000–$10,000
- Eligible Use of Funds:
- Program and project expenses
- Direct service delivery
- Program expansion initiatives
- Staff salaries essential to project implementation
- Activities aligned with MDF’s mission
Up to 20% of the grant may be used for general operating expenses.
Ineligible Expenses
Grant funds cannot be used for:
- Rent
- Utilities
- Office supplies
- Taxes
- Insurance
- Other non-programmatic operating expenses beyond the approved limit
Priority Funding Areas
Education
The foundation supports programs that improve educational access and outcomes for children and young people.
Examples include:
- Early literacy initiatives
- Academic support programs
- Mentorship opportunities
- Career exploration activities
- Postsecondary access and readiness programs
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
- Programs serving children facing educational barriers
Physical and Mental Health
Funding supports initiatives that improve health outcomes and increase access to services for underserved populations.
Supported activities may include:
- Mental health support services
- Counseling and intervention programs
- Family support initiatives
- Stigma reduction and awareness efforts
- Prevention and early intervention programs
- Community-based health services
Violence Prevention and Survivor Support
Projects may focus on preventing violence and supporting individuals affected by trauma.
Examples include:
- Domestic violence services
- Sexual assault survivor support
- Dating violence prevention
- Stalking prevention and response
- Counseling services
- Safety planning
- Emergency financial assistance
- Housing search assistance
- Residential support programs
- Youth leadership and education initiatives
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
- Have been established for at least one year before the application deadline
- Provide direct services or advocacy within one of MDF’s focus areas
- Demonstrate alignment with the foundation’s mission
Organizations with annual program budgets of $250,000 or less receive priority consideration.
Special Eligibility Conditions
Organizations that have received funding under the Education or Health categories for three consecutive years must take a one-year break before applying again.
Applicants should review previous funding history before submitting a proposal.
Why This Grant Matters
Many nonprofit organizations face challenges securing flexible funding for programs that support vulnerable populations. The Mildred’s Dream Foundation helps address this gap by funding projects that improve educational opportunities, promote health and wellbeing, and provide critical services for survivors of violence.
The program supports organizations working directly with communities and delivering measurable, life-changing outcomes.
How to Apply
- Confirm your organization’s eligibility status.
- Identify a project that aligns with one of MDF’s focus areas.
- Develop a clear project plan and budget.
- Demonstrate the community need and expected impact.
- Prepare supporting organizational information and financial documents.
- Submit a complete application before the deadline.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly explain how the project aligns with MDF’s mission.
- Demonstrate measurable outcomes and community impact.
- Highlight the needs of underserved or vulnerable populations.
- Provide a realistic and detailed budget.
- Show organizational capacity to successfully deliver the project.
- Include evidence of demand for the proposed services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much funding can organizations request?
Organizations may request up to $25,000 per project, with most awards ranging between $5,000 and $10,000.
Who is eligible to apply?
IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that have been operating for at least one year.
What are the main funding priorities?
Education, physical and mental health, and violence prevention and survivor support.
Can grant funds be used for staff salaries?
Yes. Staff salaries may be supported if they are essential to project implementation or expansion.
Are small nonprofits encouraged to apply?
Yes. Organizations with program budgets of $250,000 or less receive priority consideration.
Can funds be used for general operating expenses?
Yes, up to 20% of the grant may be used for approved operating costs, excluding certain restricted expenses.
Can previously funded organizations apply again?
Yes, although organizations funded in Education or Health for three consecutive years must take one year off before reapplying.
Conclusion
The Mildred’s Dream Foundation Grant Program offers valuable funding for nonprofits working to improve educational opportunities, strengthen physical and mental health services, and support survivors of violence. With grants of up to $25,000, the program helps organizations expand their impact and provide essential services to children, families, and underserved communities.
For more information, visit MDF.
