Economic Opportunity Grant Program

Application Deadline: 13 February 2026

The Economic Opportunity Grant Program is a mission-driven funding initiative supporting organisations that expand economic access, build wealth, and strengthen financial resilience in under-resourced communities. The programme invests in initiatives that deliver measurable economic and financial outcomes while addressing systemic barriers to wealth creation.

Designed to advance the Foundation’s mission of expanding economic opportunity and promoting fairer wealth distribution, the programme focuses on empowering individuals, households, and communities to participate more fully in local and national economies.

About the program

The Economic Opportunity Grant Program provides flexible grant funding to organisations implementing projects that promote inclusive economic growth. Supported initiatives strengthen market participation, expand access to capital and financial knowledge, and build long-term financial capability and resilience.

Grants are typically awarded for one-year funding periods, with multi-year support considered where clearly justified by project scope and impact.

Core Focus Areas

Funded initiatives must align with one or more of the following priority areas:

• Regional revitalisation and rural wealth building
• Investor identity development and confidence building
• Financial literacy, financial capability, and financial resilience
• Access to capital for founders, entrepreneurs, and small businesses
• Employee ownership and community ownership models

Projects that integrate multiple focus areas are strongly encouraged.

Eligibility

Applicants must demonstrate clear alignment with the Foundation’s mission and focus areas. Eligible applicants include:

• Organisations designated as tax-exempt under §501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service code
• For-profit entities or consultants applying on behalf of qualified tax-exempt organisations
• Applicants operating through a recognised fiscal sponsor

Grant Size and Funding Terms

• Minimum grant amount: Not specified
• Maximum grant amount: Not specified
• Grant size: Determined by project scope, scale, and appropriateness
• Funding term: Typically one year
• Multi-year funding: Considered when clearly justified

Funding decisions are based on impact potential, feasibility, and alignment with programme objectives.

Why this Program Matters

Many communities continue to face structural barriers to wealth creation, financial security, and access to capital. By supporting initiatives that build financial capability, promote inclusive ownership models, and expand economic access, the Economic Opportunity Grant Program contributes to more equitable and resilient local economies.

How the Program Works

Application Process

1. Identify a programme aligned with one or more focus areas
2. Define clear goals, outcomes, and measurable impact
3. Confirm eligibility or secure a fiscal sponsor
4. Develop a detailed project plan and budget
5. Submit a grant application demonstrating alignment and impact potential
6. Implement the programme if funding is awarded
7. Report on outcomes and use of funds as required

Common Mistakes

• Submitting proposals without measurable outcomes
• Weak alignment with the Foundation’s focus areas
• Vague or unrealistic impact metrics
• Insufficient explanation of long-term economic impact
• Applying without appropriate tax-exempt status or fiscal sponsorship

Frequently Asked Question

What is the primary goal of the programme?
To expand economic opportunity, build wealth, and strengthen financial resilience in under-resourced communities.

Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include §501(c)(3) organisations and for-profit entities applying on behalf of qualified nonprofits or through fiscal sponsors.

Is there a fixed grant size?
No. Grant size is determined by project scope and relevance.

How long is the funding period?
Typically one year, with multi-year funding considered where appropriate.

Is measurable impact required?
Yes. All funded initiatives must demonstrate measurable outcomes in at least one focus area.

Conclusion

The Economic Opportunity Grant Program supports organisations driving inclusive economic growth and fairer wealth distribution. By investing in initiatives that expand access to capital, strengthen financial capability, and empower communities, the programme plays a critical role in building resilient economies and long-term opportunity.

For more information, visit The Nasdaq Foundation.