The Awesome Foundation has been “forwarding the interest of awesome in the universe” since 2009. They do this through 77 chapters in 11 countries, each of which grants a $1,000 award every month.
The funds for these no strings attached grants come from donations from the chapter’s members. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Eligibility
Anyone can apply for an Awesome Foundation grant.
Allowable Activities
Any type of project is eligible, as long as it’s ‘Awesome.’ Each chapter defines the term ‘awesome’ differently, but it can be interpreted to mean innovative, experimental, and inspirational.
Recently funded projects include a picture book to help kids navigate cancer, a theater performance about women who contributed to astronomy, and an accessible playground.
How to Apply
The Foundation suggests you apply to the chapter closest to you, but you can also mark ‘Any’ on the application. A few of the chapters are based around specific issues, but the majority are geographic and tend to fund projects in their area. There is also an Awesome Without Borders.
You can also apply to more than one chapter if you think they’d be interested. Most chapters meet monthly to select the recipient, but if you’re not chosen, they often keep applications for a while to review again.
