Butterfly Urban Grants
A Community Microgrant Program
Butterflies are a symbol of change, joy, and the changing colors of life. Butterflies go through an amazing metamorphosis and gradually transform until a new creature emerges as a beautiful butterfly symbolizing a rebirth. The goal of the Butterfly Urban Grants program is to offer NYC residents, groups and organizations microgrants to take on projects that bring strength, hope, consolation, healing and inspiration to others.
My mother’s altruism served as an inspiration on my decision to do this. She was known for providing unsolicited help to countless people with no strings attached. I am doing this to continue her legacy. My goal is to offer one-time microgrants ranging from $300 - $1000. It is not a lot of money, but I am hoping Butterfly Urban Grants might nudge folks to create projects that will make a positive impact for others.
2022 Butterfly Urban Grant Application (click here to apply)
Who can apply:
· Any resident of the 5 boroughs in New York City. No age limit.
· Individuals, Groups, Nonprofits and other organizations primarily based in New York City.
What projects can be funded:
I am looking for projects that are meaningful, passionate and impactful! Projects should address community preservation, engagement and/or public service that bring strength, hope, consolation, healing and inspiration to others. Projects should have a sense of beginning and end.
Examples:
· Coordinating a coat drive
· Feeding those in need
· Starting a podcast
· Organizing an issue-based campaign
Priority given to a project with these criteria:
· Funding is not readily available for your type of project.
· You have a unique take on the project, or your backstory is interesting.
· High likelihood of success and capacity to execute.
· Impact extends beyond the life of your project (ex. new program vs. one-time event)
· Timeline is shorter (ex. 2 months) vs. longer (ex. one year)
What projects CANNOT be funded:
- Past Butterfly Urban grantees
- Projects sponsored by a for profit organization.
- Projects organized by my blood relative
- Organizations that practice discrimination of any kind
- General contributions to capital campaigns
- Operating budget deficits, retirement of debt or emergency funds
- Wages
- Fundraising activities
- Projects identified with political parties or religious organizations of any kind.
Timeline (EST):
February 21, 2022(noon): Applications close. If you send an application after this time, it will be automatically deleted.
March 25, 2022: Everyone will be notified by this date.
April 4, 2022: Public announcement of Butterfly Urban Grantees.
Note: Unfortunately, I cannot respond to individual inquiries about application status.
Award process:
Grantees will receive 50% designated award funds up front. I will check in with you to discuss status of project before sending the second half. I can send money via PayPal (you need a PayPal/bank account), Cashapp, or snail mail a check.
Grantee expectations:
Projects should be completed within a year of receiving grant funding. Grantees will sign a memorandum of agreement which provides clarification of proposed project award guidelines. Grantees must have a social media presence and be able to share as such.
What applicants should know about Butterfly Urban:
Apply here. I am not doing this through a foundation. Grants are coming from personal funds. I am not receiving a tax deduction. If folks like it and use the funds to make a difference, I may do this again. If you have any questions or concerns please email yasmin@yasminhurston.com.
Peace and Blessings,
Yas
