Overview
AMARA invests in Black-led and Black-centered organizations across Illinois working toward power, liberation and justice.
We support organizations deeply connected and accountable to Black communities and other communities of color shaped by anti-Blackness, systemic racism and long-term underinvestment. Our grantmaking focuses on community power, narrative change, leadership, rest and the infrastructure needed to help this work last.
Our approach begins with abundance. We recognize what Black communities already hold: leadership, wisdom, vision and organizing power. We move resources toward work that is already happening, already essential and long overdue for the full weight of support.
AMARA may be a strong fit for organizations whose work is rooted in achieving racial justice, building community power and maintaining accountability to the communities they serve.
Eligibility & Criteria
Who can apply
To be eligible for Rapid Response funding, your organization should:
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Be a 501(c)(3) public charity or a fiscally sponsored group.
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Work at the county, regional or statewide level in Illinois. Organizations that solely serve the city of Chicago are not eligible.
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Be deeply rooted in Black communities, that have experienced historical underinvestment.
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Work toward structural, systemic change, not short-term relief alone.
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Face a time-sensitive need that cannot wait for the next standard grant cycle.
