Susan G. Baker and Elizabeth Boyle Innovation Fund

Susan G. Baker and Elizabeth Boyle Innovation Fund

Funder: National Alliance to End Homelessness

Status: Active funding opportunity

Geographic Scope: United States

Background: Established in honor of two co-founders and longest-serving board members, this fund supports people with lived experience of homelessness in their pursuit of innovative professional and creative endeavors. The fund aligns with a deep commitment to ending homelessness and investment in the aspirations of people who have experienced homelessness.

Focus Areas

Professional Endeavors:

Specialized training in pursuit of a professional endeavor

Seed funding to start a small business or innovative project (website development, marketing materials, licensing/certification costs, operational expenses)

Funding to increase capacity of established professional projects (hiring staff, investing in technology/tools, marketing, conference attendance for networking)

Funding for research materials, software, data collection, travel expenses for field work, and publication costs

Creative Endeavors:

Specialized training in pursuit of a creative endeavor

Support for producing works of art (visual arts, literature, film, music)

Support for writing, editing, and publishing books (including self-publishing costs)

Funding to stage performances, concerts, and art exhibitions

Eligibility

• Must have experienced homelessness in the past
• Must not be a current member of the Alliance's Community Strategic Team
• Applicants must be pursuing a professional or creative endeavor

Award Details

• Award Amount: Up to $25,000 per individual
• Spending Timeline: Funds must be spent within two years of receiving the grant
• Tax Implications: Funding may be considered taxable income depending on grantee's circumstances

Grantee Commitments

• Attend one Alliance conference over the two-year grant period (at Alliance's expense)
• Engage with Alliance staff for interim project updates as scheduled
• Submit requested reports electronically via bbfund@naeh.org as scheduled
• Consent to Alliance to publicize the grant or award

Alliance Commitments

• Provide complimentary registration to one Alliance conference
• Provide transportation support (up to $750)
• Provide three nights of hotel accommodation
• Provide clear timeline and templates for reporting deadlines
• Promote grantee's work through appropriate channels (social media, newsletters, events)

Contact Information

Email: bbfund@naeh.org

For any inquiries or assistance regarding the application process, contact bbfund@naeh.org