The Baltimore Community Foundation (BCF) has launched Legacy Forward Grants, a $250,000 initiative designed to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary by supporting Baltimore (City and County) nonprofits that honor the past, bring communities together, and shape the region's shared future. The program invites organizations to propose projects that celebrate Baltimore's cultural and civic heritage while fostering collaboration across communities. These efforts aim to advance reflection, unity, and progress as the city prepares for 2026 and beyond.
BCF's Legacy Forward Grants will award project-based grants of $2,500 to $25,000 to local nonprofits working to strengthen civic connection and celebrate Baltimore's rich history. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, or have a fiscal sponsor with such status, based in Baltimore City or Baltimore County. Organizations whose overall mission focuses on education, historical preservation, or cultural preservation are eligible, as are neighborhood associations and improvement organizations. Proposed projects or programs must take place between January 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027.
The application period runs from November 1 to December 20, 2025, closing at 5 p.m. EST. Applications and full program details are available at www.bcf.org/legacyforward. This grant program is part of BCF's broader commitment to investing in the region's future, ensuring that the 250th anniversary serves as a catalyst for meaningful community engagement and lasting impact. By funding projects that bridge past and present, BCF aims to strengthen the social fabric of Baltimore and inspire collective action toward a shared vision.
This initiative underscores the importance of local philanthropy in driving community-led change. As Baltimore prepares for the nation's semiquincentennial, these grants provide a unique opportunity for nonprofits to implement projects that celebrate local heritage and build connections across diverse communities. The Legacy Forward Grants reflect a growing trend among foundations to align grantmaking with significant national milestones, leveraging commemorative moments to address contemporary challenges and opportunities.
