Seed Grant Opportunities
Our place-based sites offer small seed grants to support community-driven programs and partnerships. These awards are designed to help organizations pilot or expand ideas with long-term potential—projects that can grow, gain momentum, and continue beyond the grant period.
Below are two current seed grant opportunities. Each section includes a brief overview, key dates, and award details. For full eligibility requirements, submission instructions, and the complete request for proposals (RFP), follow the “Learn more” link for each opportunity.
Deadline to Submit is April 13, 2026 by 11:59 PM
The VCU Health Hub at 25th Seed Grants support community-based organizations working in Richmond’s East End to develop or expand programs that address community-identified needs. Funding is intended to help organizations pilot new ideas or strengthen existing work in ways that can continue beyond the initial funding period, while also building a meaningful partnership with the Health Hub.
Questions?
Contact Sarah McCall, Operations Manager: vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu
Positive Youth Development Seed Grant (Mary and Frances Youth Center)
The Mary and Frances Youth Center (MFYC) offers seed funding to community partners interested in collaborating on youth development and/or professional learning opportunities for youth educators. Projects should meaningfully integrate the Youth Center and demonstrate a clear plan for sustainability beyond one year.
Questions?
Contact Misti Mueller, Executive Director, MFYC: muellermr@vcu.edu
Need Help Getting Started?
If you have an idea and want to talk through fit, eligibility, or partnership possibilities, we encourage you to attend an upcoming informational session:
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| March 17, 2026 | Informational Zoom Session @ 12PM (general info session) |
| March 18, 2026 | Informational Zoom Session @ 4PM (general info session) |
| March 25, 2026 | Informational Zoom Session @ 9AM (general info session) |
| March 26, 2026 | Grant Writing Workshop @ 1PM |