Champions in Action Grant

The Champions in Action Grant, offered by the Citizens Charitable Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York City, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Southern Florida. This funding, totaling $50,000, aims to empower nonprofits addressing social challenges through innovative solutions.

Support for nonprofits creating lasting change in our local communities.
Citizens' Champions in Action program
Citizens' Champions in Action program is designed to support nonprofit organizations that address social challenges facing our communities. Since 2002, the program has awarded over $12.3 million to more than 400 Champions. In partnership with media outlets, we also provide support through promotion, publicity and volunteerism to help our Champions in Action better serve our communities.
Building AI Readiness and Capacity
Nonprofits are navigating a fast‑evolving technological landscape, with many seeking practical, mission‑aligned ways to integrate AI into their work. While over 85% of nonprofits are exploring AI tools, only 24% have a formal strategy, underscoring a significant readiness gap. At the same time, 53% report time and staffing constraints as major barriers to adoption.
The 2026 Champions in Action award will recognize nonprofits working to build AI readiness and organizational capacity. These organizations are rising to the moment—expanding their digital competencies, improving program delivery, and exploring responsible, practical applications of AI that help them serve more people and operate more efficiently.

Eligibility

To be recognized as a Champion in Action, an organization must:Be a nonprofit organization based in California (Los Angeles or San Francisco), Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York City, Pennsylvania (Greater Philadelphia or Greater Pittsburgh), Rhode Island, or Southern Florida that addresses a specific social concern (topics announced biannually).Be able to provide 1 - 2 volunteer projects, including at least one skills-based volunteer project, for Citizens colleagues to engage in.Have a total operating budget between $250,000 - $5 millionPrevious Champions in Action may reapply after five years have lapsed.