NLGF Guild Grants

Mission: The NLGF works to promote human rights and the rights of ecosystems over property interests through public education and grants to legal projects engaged in the defense of political and civil rights.

Grant Purpose

One-time grants awarded to selected NLG entities for educational campaigns and programs that will increase capacity, promote membership, and build the Guild.

Eligible Projects

Capacity-building projects may include, but are not limited to:

• Hiring part-time and/or temporary staff to coordinate specific projects such as strengthening or starting a Mass Defense program or organizing members
• Building a website or social media presence to increase public education
• Strengthening internal engagement and cohesion through facilitated political education or trainings

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:

• Financial need and demonstrated capacity to raise matching funds
• Adequate administrative oversight and ability to report on grant expenditures
• Organizational capacity to carry out the proposed project including demonstrated record of success
• Ability to obtain media coverage and reach prospective NLG members
• Coordination with NLG National Office to promote the work as part of the NLG's overall work and provide replicable examples to other parts of the NLG
• Bank account requirement: Applicants must have, or be sponsored by an entity with, a bank account bearing a National Lawyers Guild-related name

Additional Resources

• FAQ available on website
• Information Session video available with guidance on preparing competitive proposals and frequently asked questions
• Past grant recipients listed for years: 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016

How to Apply

Steps:

1. Review eligibility criteria and project guidelines
2. Check FAQ for application requirements and tips
3. Watch the Information Session video for guidance on preparing a competitive proposal
4. Submit application (specific submission format and required materials not detailed on provided webpage)
5. Contact NLGF with questions at nlgfoundation@nlg.org

Required Information:

• Project description demonstrating capacity-building focus
• Evidence of financial need and matching fund capacity
• Demonstration of organizational capacity and past success record
• Plan for media coverage and reaching prospective members
• Coordination plan with NLG National Office
• Bank account documentation (NLG-related name)