Groundwork Organizer Network

Geographic Scope: Alabama, Mississippi, Oklahoma, West Virginia

Overview:
The anchor of Groundwork's engagement model, the Groundwork Organizer Network provides capital, community and capacity to local frontline organizers in focus states. This first-of-its-kind program resources, supports and connects 501c3 and 501c4 grassroots organizers on democracy's frontlines.

Focus Areas:

• Community organizing for democracy protection and civic engagement
• Year-round base-building within particular communities, issues or demographics
• Activities include: community and voter education, direct action, election protection, issue advocacy, leadership development, narrative change, and digital organizing

Eligibility:

• Organizations in Groundwork's four partner states: Alabama, Mississippi, Oklahoma, West Virginia
• Must be committed to using community organizing as primary tool for powerbuilding
• Must be actively executing year-round organizing programs aimed at base-building
• Programming must support long-term, statewide efforts to secure a more just, equitable, and democratic future

What They Don't Fund:

• Groups engaged solely in direct service

Award Structure:

• Unrestricted, multi-year general operating capital
• Current funding level: $100,000 over four years, or $25,000/year for four years
• Multi-year commitment

Support Provided:

• Capital: Unrestricted, multi-year general operating funds
• Capacity: Wraparound support including donor cultivation, skills training, organization development, digital content creation, technical assistance, 1:1 coaching and mentoring, pro bono legal support, technology tools, and community trainings
• Community: Access to vibrant, cross-state community of like-minded organizers; monthly state-based calls; quarterly network calls; 1:1 relationship facilitation; regular convenings for cross-state, cross-region and cross-country ties

Impact:

• 4 partner states targeted
• Nearly $6M funds committed
• 90+ frontline organizations receiving support

How to Apply

1. Complete the Groundwork Organizer Network Interest Form on groundworkproject.com
2. Wait for contact: Someone from the Groundwork team will follow up with you to schedule an introductory conversation in the coming weeks

Eligibility Requirements:

• Organization must be located in one of Groundwork's four partner states (Alabama, Mississippi, Oklahoma, or West Virginia)
• Organization must be committed to community organizing as primary tool for powerbuilding
• Must be actively executing year-round organizing programs aimed at base-building
• Programming must support long-term, statewide efforts

Required Materials:
Not specified in provided content; clarified through introductory conversation