Community Grants

Community Grants

Overview: KACF invests in programs that strengthen the economic security of low-income Korean Americans. This is a multi-year grant for 3 years with the maximum annual grant amount of $100,000. The foundation provides general operating and program-specific support.

Economic Security Definition: Having the resources to realize the full economic potential of individuals and families through:

Educational attainment

Meaningful employment

Financial education

Public benefits access

Affordable housing and home-ownership

Other pathways to immediate and long-term economic stability

For youth, economic security may begin with access to quality education, mentorship, leadership development, and early exposure to career pathways and financial literacy.

Funding Strategies

KACF funds:
• Direct service
• Leadership development
• Community organizing
• Advocacy
• Research
• Other strategies that effectively lead to change

Geographic Scope

National: All eligible organizations across the country apply through the same unified process.

Note: Organizations based in the San Francisco Bay Area are encouraged to apply through KACF San Francisco's separate Community Grants program instead.

Eligibility Requirements

Organizational Requirements:

Registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization OR have a fiscal sponsor that is 501(c)3

Operational history of at least 6 months

Established and working Board of Directors

Filed IRS Form 990 and/or audited financials

Program Focus Priorities:
KACF prioritizes organizations that:

Work with Korean Americans as a target population or within the larger group of constituents served by the program

Are engaging in partnerships with other community organizations and stakeholders

Have the intention of providing comprehensive support to constituents

Are measuring and documenting quantitative and qualitative outcomes

Can clearly articulate how KACF's grant will advance their work

Grant Type Note:
General operating grants are only available to organizations with a budget of $3 million or less.

Funding Restrictions

KACF does NOT fund:
• Individuals
• Capital fund projects
• Endowments
• Fundraising events
• Feasibility studies
• Real estate purchases
• Public or private schools, colleges or universities
• Political causes or campaigns to elect candidates to public office
• Programs that do not comply with federal, state, or local equal employment statutes

Key Dates (2025-2026 Cycle)

• RFP Briefing (Virtual): July 23, 2025
• Application Deadline: August 29, 2025
• Initial Review Notification: September 2025
• Site Visits: September 2025 – November 2025
• Grant Award Notifications: December 2025
• Grant Period: December 15, 2025 – December 15, 2028

Contact Information

Korean American Community Foundation 135 East 64th Street New York, NY 10065 Phone: 332-265-0508 Website: kacfny.org