Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
The Rachel’s Network Catalyst Award supports mid-career women of color working to build a healthier, safer, and more just world. Selected recipients receive a $15,000 personal grant, plus an additional $10,000 for an affiliated organization (if applicable), along with leadership support and public recognition.
About the Award
The Rachel’s Network Catalyst Award recognizes women of color who are leading change in environmental and community spaces.
It is designed for individuals advancing:
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Environmental justice
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Community well-being
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Sustainability
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Public leadership
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Social impact
The award especially encourages applicants who are mid-career and actively working to strengthen environmental and community outcomes.
Focus Areas
The award prioritizes women of color involved in areas such as:
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Community organizing
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Sustainable agriculture
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Environmental storytelling
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Faith-based advocacy
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Legal protection of natural resources
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Public health promotion
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Creative expression
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Scientific research
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Socially driven entrepreneurship
This makes it suitable for leaders working across both traditional and nontraditional environmental pathways.
Award Amount
Selected recipients receive:
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$15,000 personal grant
If applicable, an additional:
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$10,000 grant for an affiliated organization
Additional Benefits
Beyond funding, recipients also receive:
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Leadership services
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Public recognition
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Greater visibility within the environmental movement
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Support to strengthen their long-term impact
Who Should Apply?
This award is ideal for:
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Women of color
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Those in the midpoint of their careers
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Individuals leading work connected to:
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Environmental justice
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Sustainability
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Community health
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Natural resource protection
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Public or grassroots advocacy
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It welcomes applicants from diverse professional and advocacy backgrounds.
Organizational Eligibility (for the Additional $10,000)
If the recipient has an affiliated organization, that organization may qualify for the additional funding.
Eligible affiliated organizations include:
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501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
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Organizations fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3)
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Tribal governments
The organization must:
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Be connected to the recipient’s work
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Support environmental or community well-being initiatives
Why This Award Matters
The Rachel’s Network Catalyst Award is valuable because it supports both the individual leader and, where applicable, the organization behind their work.
It offers:
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Flexible personal support
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Institutional backing for community impact
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Recognition for underrepresented environmental leadership
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Increased visibility and credibility
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Leadership development opportunities
FAQs
1. How much is the Rachel’s Network Catalyst Award?
Recipients receive a $15,000 personal grant.
2. Is there funding for an organization too?
Yes. An additional $10,000 may be awarded to an affiliated organization, if applicable.
3. Who is the award for?
It is for women of color, especially mid-career leaders, working in environmental justice, sustainability, and community leadership.
4. What kinds of work are prioritized?
The award supports work in areas such as community organizing, sustainable agriculture, environmental storytelling, public health, legal advocacy, research, and socially driven entrepreneurship.
5. Which organizations can receive the extra funding?
Eligible organizations include:
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501(c)(3) nonprofits
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Fiscally sponsored organizations
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Tribal governments
6. Does the award offer benefits beyond money?
Yes. Recipients also receive leadership services and public recognition.
Conclusion
The Rachel’s Network Catalyst Award is a strong opportunity for mid-career women of color making meaningful contributions to environmental justice and community well-being.
With a $15,000 personal grant, possible $10,000 organizational support, and added leadership recognition, it can help amplify both individual leadership and community impact.
For more information, visit Rachel’s Network.
