Forward Project identifies and invests in traditionally overlooked social enterprises who leverage community strengths to make Atlanta a place where everyone can thrive. The fund uses a participatory grantmaking model driven by a team of community leaders who democratically select awardees.

The program provides unrestricted, three year grants of $200,000 to entrepreneurs doing deep local work. Awardees will co-design strategic consulting services in partnership with Purpose Possible to support their organization’s unique priorities.

INVESTING IN SMALL WORLD-CHANGERS

Forward Project focuses on for-profit and not-for-profit organizations who are creating value for the communities they’re deeply connected to—what we’re calling “place-based entrepreneurship.”

Place-based entrepreneurs build businesses and organizations that help realize the ambitions of their local communities. They work collaboratively with their neighbors and understand the role they play in the broader ecosystem. They can imagine a better future — and they help others to see that vision.

If your organization is expanding early childhood education south of I-20, building platforms for emerging artists in-town, launching a grocery that makes your neighborhood more food secure, or anything in between, we’d love to get to know you. We especially encourage early- and growth-stage ventures to introduce yourselves, but we’re also interested in more established organizations making a significant pivot in their work.

FOR ENTREPRENEURS, BY ENTREPRENEURS

Place-based entrepreneurs often have a tough time getting the visibility and funding their work deserves—but they know their communities and organizations best. So we invited a number of them to help shape the Forward Project. An investment committee comprised of metro-Atlanta artists, small business owners, and non-profit leaders worked collaboratively to develop the scope of these grants. We’re partnering with Indwell Collaborative to facilitate the design and review processes, and the investment committee will review applications and democratically select awardees.