Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Announces Local Data for Equitable Communities Grant

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) has announced an exciting funding opportunity for nonprofit organizations dedicated to using data to address inequities in local communities. With up to 30 grants of $50,000 each, the Local Data for Equitable Communities program aims to empower organizations to collect, analyze, and apply data to improve physical, economic, and social conditions.

Structural racism and systemic inequities often prevent communities from accessing the resources they need to thrive. By harnessing the power of data, nonprofits can better understand these challenges, drive policy change, and create more equitable environments where health is not a privilege but a right.

Why Data Matters

Data is more than just numbers—it’s the stories, experiences, and insights that shape our understanding of community needs. Whether through surveys, interviews, or statistical analysis, data enables organizations to:

• Identify disparities in housing, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
• Advocate for change by presenting concrete evidence to policymakers and stakeholders.
• Measure progress and hold institutions accountable for equitable improvements.

This grant program is not just about funding but about building local capacity to use data effectively and ensuring that communities most affected by inequities have a voice in decision-making.

Grant Program Goals

The Local Data for Equitable Communities initiative focuses on four key objectives:

1. Inform Public Policy & Drive Change – Using data as a tool to shape policies that improve living conditions.
2. Strengthen Community Data Use – Equipping nonprofits with the resources and skills to collect and analyze relevant data.
3. Promote Equitable Data Practices – Ensuring that communities impacted by inequities can access, interpret, and contribute to data-driven solutions.
4. Share Best Practices – Creating a knowledge base of successful strategies that other communities can learn from and replicate.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for funding, applicants must be:

• A nonprofit organization with tax-exempt status under 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) (private foundations and certain supporting organizations are not eligible).
• Based in the U.S. or its territories and focused on local geographic areas such as neighborhoods, cities, or tribal regions.
• Not a university, though universities can partner with eligible nonprofits.
• Requesting no more than $50,000, as proposals exceeding this amount will not be considered.

Organizations with a fiscal sponsor meeting these criteria may also apply.

Important Dates

• February 4, 2025: Call for Proposals (CFP) opens.
• February 18, 2025 (1 p.m. ET): Optional applicant webinar (recording and slides available after).
• March 18, 2025 (3 p.m. ET): Full proposal submission deadline.
• May 23, 2025: Selected applicants are notified.
• July 15, 2025: Grant period begins.

Building a Future of Health Equity

RWJF, in collaboration with the Urban Institute, is committed to supporting nonprofits that use data to create meaningful, community-led change. By investing in data capacity and equitable practices, this program seeks to empower local organizations to dismantle systemic barriers and foster healthier, more inclusive communities.

Interested nonprofits should mark their calendars and start preparing their proposals today! For more information, visit RWJF’s official grant page.