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Nulla felis nunc, consequat laoreet lacus id.   Feature Program Areas Summary Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Our Grantees — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ    Our Grantees     Since the 1970’s, the Foundation has been interested in programs and projects offering the potential for significant impact. The grants generally focused on public policy and advocacy efforts. In 2016, the Foundation underwent a major restructure and a new Board was formed in 2017. (For more information on the restructure, please see the Press Release .) The following grants represent only those made since 2017. Advancing Truth Recipients Justice Recipients Environment Recipients Special Awards in the Arts Recipients Special Initiatives Recipients   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Justice Recipients — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Justice   The following grants represent only those made since 2017. Click here to view descriptions for Program Areas. Featured AAPIs for Civic Empowerment Education Fund (fiscal sponsor: Chinese Progressive Association) 2020 - $25,000 Support of its work to assess the political attitudes of Chinese communities in the Bay Area. Read more → Alliance For Girls 2024 - $40,000; 2022 - $40,000; 2021 - $40,000; 2020 - $40,000; 2018 - $40,000; 2017 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → API Equality – Northern California (fiscal sponsor: Chinese for Affirmative Action) 2021 - $25,000; 2020 - $15,000; 2019 - $15,000 Support of its work. Read more → Ashby Village 2020 - $25,000; 2019 - $25,000; 2017 - $25,000 Support of its Berkeley Age-Friendly Continuum project. Read more → Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Asian Law Caucus 2024 - $50,000; 2021 - $100,000; 2020 - $100,000; 2019 - $75,000; 2018 - $75,000; 2017 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Bay Rising (fiscal sponsor: Center for Empowered Politics Education Fund) 2023 - $50,000; 2022 - $50,000; 2020 - $50,000; 2019 - $50,000; 2018 - $50,000 Support of its work. Read more → Black Organizing Project 2020 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Building Blocks for Kids Richmond (fiscal sponsor: Tides Center) 2022 - $40,000; 2021 - $40,000; 2019 - $25,000; 2018 - $25,000 Support of its work. Read more → California Coalition for Reproductive Freedom (fiscal sponsor: Tides Center) 2021 - $20,000; 2017 - $25,000 Support of its work. Read more → California Mentoring Partnership (fiscal sponsor: Center for Applied Research Solutions) 2020 - $35,000 Support of its work. Read more → Center for Applied Research Solutions 2024 - $30,000; 2022 - $40,000 Support of California Mentorship project’s Racial Justice in Mentoring Initiative. Read more → Chinese for Affirmative Action 2020 - $40,000 Support of its work on Covid19 related hate and violence against Asian Americans. Read more → Coleman Advocates 2024 - $40,000; 2022 - $40,000; 2021 - $40,000; 2020 - $40,000; 2019 - $40,000; 2018 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Contra Costa County 2019 - $50,000; 2018 - $50,000 Support of its Stand Together Contra Costa program. Read more → East Bay Community Foundation 2024 - $40,000 Support of the goals of the Fund for California’s Future. Read more → Ella Baker Center for Human Rights 2023 - $75,000; 2022 - $75,000; 2020 - $75,000 Support of its work. Read more → Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice * 2022 - $40,000 Support of its work. 2021 - $40,000; 2020 - $35,000; 2019 - $35,000; 2017 - $35,000 Support of its Hawaii Budget and Policy Center. Read more → Hawaii Community Reinvestment Corporation * 2020 - $40,000; 2019 - $30,000 Support of its operations. Read more → Hawaii Friends of Restorative Justice * 2019 - $16,500 Support of its public school restorative justice program. Read more → Hawaii People’s Fund * 2024 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Insight Prison Project 2018 - $25,000 Support of its Veterans Healing Veterans from the Inside Out program. Read more → Life Learning Academy 2021 n- $50,000 Support of its communications work. Read more → Lavender Phoenix (fiscal sponsor: Chinese for Affirmative Action) 2024 - $40,000; 2022 - $25,000 Support of its work. Read more → Lift Up Contra Costa Action (fiscal sponsor: Tides Center) 2020 - $40,000; 2019 - $25,000; 2018 - $25,000 Support of its work. Read more → Mount Tamalpais College 2021 – 100,000 Support of its fundraising efforts. Read more → New Breath Foundation 2024 - $50,000 Support of its work. Read more → Northern California Grantmakers 2021 - $75,000; 2020 - $75,000 Support of its Youth Organizing Power Building Initiative Youth Organizing Power Building Initiative. Read more → Rebuilding Together – East Bay $25,000 Support of the Gateway Program. Read more → Root & Rebound 2021 - $100,000; 2020 - $100,000; 2019 - $75,000; 2018 - $75,000 Support of its work. Read more → Safe Return Project (fiscal sponsor: Social Good Fund) 2020 - $40,000; 2019 - $25,000; 2018 - $25,000 Support of its work. Read more → Featured Social Justice Collaborative 2022 - $25,000; 2021 - $25,000 Support of its work. Transgender Law Center 2024 - $75,000; 2022 - $75,000; 2021 - $75,000; 2020 - $75,000; 2019 - $75,000; 2018 - $75,000 Support of its work in the Bay Area.   * Hawaii grant Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency All Program Areas — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Program Areas   Photo: Trust for Public Land, Hawaiian Islands   Advancing Truth Truth is power. Gerbode seeks to elevate the voices of truth to counter misinformation. We look to partner with organizations that use media and new technologies as tools to inform and engage the public on critical issues, as well as influence change in current policies and practices that cause harm to individuals, communities and our environment. We are interested in supporting community leaders who are courageous truth tellers and can inspire passion for change, and we embrace authentic and diverse viewpoints, narratives, and solutions that have the potential to alter culture, policy and behavior. Grantees Justice Gerbode is deeply committed to advancing justice for populations that are currently experiencing trauma and persecution due to factors including the color of their skin, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, language spoken, or religious beliefs. We believe in the importance of community-driven strategies and other appropriate approaches, including the critical power of collaboration across communities, sectors, and institutions, as key ingredients of positive social change. Grantees Environment Gerbode seeks to use its resources to heal the relationship between people and the earth. We value the role that communities play in addressing conservation, preservation, and quality of life concerns ranging from the quality of our air, water, and oceans to the preservation of open space and other natural resources. We seek to elevate the issues of environmental justice, which includes access to healthy food, transportation, and safe and healthy neighborhoods. And, we believe in the importance of strategic community planning to ensure that the public sector develops appropriate and effective plans, policies, and procedures to address important urban concerns that result in strong, diverse, and culturally vibrant neighborhoods. Grantees Photo: Robbie Sweeny Arts The Special Awards in the Arts Program supports the creation of new works in dance, theater production, and music composition. These nationally respected awards have helped underwrite acclaimed new works that are culturally and aesthetically diverse, by prominent and emerging artists. These grants have supported artists at critical junctures in their careers; enabled nonprofit local arts groups to develop and debut substantial, original works; and enriched Bay Area audiences, readers, and viewers by giving them first access to ambitious new creations. Grantees Special Initiatives The Foundation promotes and supports a healthy, vibrant, effective, and growing non-profit sector and the philanthropy that supports it. It is also dedicated to building and strengthening the nonprofit field. Unfortunately, this program area is not open to unsolicited proposals. Grantees   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency FAQ — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Frequently Asked Questions Are you currently accepting LOIs? Unfortunately, we have paused our Letter of Inquiry process at this time. Click here to be added to the Foundation’s announcement list to be notified of future updates. Are there any geographic limitations? The primary geographical focus is on the San Francisco Bay Area (counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo) and Hawaii. Note: The FAQ below represents questions related to our Letter of Inquiry process that is on pause at this time. If I am a national organization and have a project within the Foundation’s geographical areas of focus, can I apply? Yes. What does the Gerbode Foundation not fund? The Foundation generally does not support the following:  Documentary or full-length films International projects Direct services  Buildings or equipment Capital campaigns Endowments  Private Schools Scholarships Sponsorships Grants to individuals  How often does your Board meet? The Foundation’s trustees generally meet four times a year, once every quarter.  Is there an application deadline? The Foundation’s general grantmaking does not have any deadlines; however, if you are applying to the Special Awards program, you can find the program guidelines and deadlines here .  How long is the review process for my full proposal? Full proposals are reviewed and calendared for discussion and decision by the Board on a quarterly basis. How much can I ask for? What is the average size of your grants?   The grants generally range from $2,500 to $100,000, depending on the scope of the project, whether it clearly fits within the Foundation’s programmatic priorities, and other internal factors that influence our funding decisions. An average size grant is $25,000.   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency History — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   History     1961 The Foundation is established by Martha Gerbode (environmentalist, philanthropist and volunteer in the San Francisco Bay Area and Hawaii). Throughout the Gerbode Foundation’s history, its grantmaking is informed by a strong commitment to equality and justice. Through the Foundation, Martha’s children and their families make investments that result in meaningful changes in people’s lives. They also cultivate a culture of risk-taking and innovation that reflects Martha’s reputation as a maverick and visionary activist. (To read more about Martha, click here. ) 1975 The Foundation hires Tom Layton, former business executive and VP/National Director of the Coro Foundation, as its Executive Director. During his tenure, Tom helps to shape and lead the dramatically shifting field of philanthropy in the Bay Area, as well as helps to build the capacity of the growing non-profit field. He sets forth the reputation of the Foundation as being “open, accessible and opportunistic.” Some of the Foundation’s early investments include support for end-of-life issues, reproductive rights and health, conservation, arts and culture, and the preservation of the Native Hawaiian language. After 38 years of service and numerous civic and philanthropic awards acknowledging his contributions to the field, Tom retires in 2014. 1987 The Foundation creates the Special Awards in the Arts program, which makes innovative grants to Bay Area arts organizations to commission and produce new works from gifted artists, including playwrights, choreographers, composers, visual artists, poets, and multimedia artists. In the first year of its theater round, a grant is awarded to Eureka Theater, which commissions Tony Kushner to write “Angels in America.” 1989 The Foundation creates the Gerbode Fellows program, a professional development and renewal program for Foundation grantees, in recognition of the need for sustained leadership in the field and of the limited opportunities available for non-profit leaders. The program runs for 27 years in partnership with the University of California at Berkeley School of Social Welfare. 2002 In partnership with the Hawaii Community Foundation (“HCF”), the Foundation launches the Ho’okele Awards, a program similar to the Gerbode Fellows program that recognizes outstanding community leaders. The Foundation ends its partnership with HCF when the Foundation restructures in 2016. The program continues to be very successful. 2014 Tom Layton retires and Stacie Ma’a replaces him as President. Stacie was hired in 1999 to be the Foundation’s first program officer, and later became its Vice President. Stacie becomes one of the first Native Hawaiian women in the country to lead a family foundation. 2016 The Foundation undergoes a major restructure to allow the third generation of family members to focus on their own interest areas and continue their work in philanthropy. Half the funds remain with the Gerbode Foundation and the other half results in the creation of three individual private foundations. (For more information on the restructure, please see the Press Release here .) 2017 In 2017, a new Board is seated. The new Board consists of Martha Gerbode’s son, Frank A. Gerbode, M.D., his three children Sharon, Colin, and Ian, and Foundation President Stacie Ma’a. 2024 After 24 years, President Stacie Ma’a retires. Aimee Sueko Eng joins the Foundation as Executive Director with over 15 years of significant leadership experience, management and grantmaking expertise, and a deep understanding of the philanthropic and non-profit communities in the Bay Area. After 17 years, Olivia Malabuyo Tablante continues her role with the Foundation as Administrative Director and Program Director for the Special Awards in the Arts Program.   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Advancing Truth Recipients — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Advancing Truth   The following grants represent only those made since 2017. Click here to view descriptions for Program Areas. Featured Asian American Futures * 2022 - $100,000 Support of Active California’s Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Narrative and Power project. Read more → Asian Pacific Fund 2022 - $10,000; 2021 - $25,000 Support of its work. Read more → Bay Area Video Coalition 2021 - $30,000 Support of Shakti, a film by Nani Sahra Walker. Read more → Center for Cultural Power (fiscal sponsor: CEL Education Fund) 2020 - $75,000; 2018 - $75,000 Support of its work. Read more → Center for Media Justice 2024 - $40,000; 2022 - $40,000; 2020 - $30,000; 2019 - $30,000 Support of its work in the Bay Area. Read more → Common Cause 2024 - $60,000 Support of its Media & Democracy and its California Institute for Technology and Democrat (CITED) programs. 2023 - $60,000 Support of its work in California. Read more → Commonwealth Club of California 2023 - $25,000; 2021 - $25,000; 2020 - $25,000; 2019 - $25,000; 2018 - $25,000; 2017 - $25,000 Support of its Climate One program. Read more → Council of Community Housing Organizations (fiscal sponsor: SF Information Clearinghouse) 2021 - $30,000; 2020 - $30,000 Support of its work. Read more → El Tímpano (fiscal sponsor: Independent Arts & Media) 2024 - $50,000; 2023 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Hawaii Women in Filmmaking * 2020 - $25,000; 2019 - $25,000 Support of its work. Read more → Maplight.org 2022 - $50,000; 2020 - $100,000 Support of its core work combatting online disinformation and pressuring state and federal government for policy changes in this area. 2019 – $75,000 Support of its Digital Deception Solutions project. Read more → Minnesota Public Radio/American Public Media 2017 - $25,000 Support of a limited run podcast and radio series featuring stories from people who lived through the Japanese American internment. Read more → The Working Group/Not in Our Town 2022 - $40,000; 2021 - $40,000; 2020 - $40,000; 2019 - $40,000; 2018 - $40,000; 2017 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → The Utility Reform Network (TURN) 2018 - $50,000 Support of its net neutrality work. Read more → Renaissance Journalism Bay Area Media Collaborative (fiscal sponsor: Community Initiatives) 2017 - $25,000 Support of its work. Read more →     * Hawaii grant Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency History — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   History     1961 The Foundation is established by Martha Gerbode (environmentalist, philanthropist and volunteer in the San Francisco Bay Area and Hawaii). Throughout the Gerbode Foundation’s history, its grantmaking is informed by a strong commitment to equality and justice. Through the Foundation, Martha’s children and their families make investments that result in meaningful changes in people’s lives. They also cultivate a culture of risk-taking and innovation that reflects Martha’s reputation as a maverick and visionary activist. (To read more about Martha, click here. ) 1975 The Foundation hires Tom Layton, former business executive and VP/National Director of the Coro Foundation, as its Executive Director. During his tenure, Tom helps to shape and lead the dramatically shifting field of philanthropy in the Bay Area, as well as helps to build the capacity of the growing non-profit field. He sets forth the reputation of the Foundation as being “open, accessible and opportunistic.” Some of the Foundation’s early investments include support for end-of-life issues, reproductive rights and health, conservation, arts and culture, and the preservation of the Native Hawaiian language. After 38 years of service and numerous civic and philanthropic awards acknowledging his contributions to the field, Tom retires in 2014. 1987 The Foundation creates the Special Awards in the Arts program, which makes innovative grants to Bay Area arts organizations to commission and produce new works from gifted artists, including playwrights, choreographers, composers, visual artists, poets, and multimedia artists. In the first year of its theater round, a grant is awarded to Eureka Theater, which commissions Tony Kushner to write “Angels in America.” 1989 The Foundation creates the Gerbode Fellows program, a professional development and renewal program for Foundation grantees, in recognition of the need for sustained leadership in the field and of the limited opportunities available for non-profit leaders. The program runs for 27 years in partnership with the University of California at Berkeley School of Social Welfare. 2002 In partnership with the Hawaii Community Foundation (“HCF”), the Foundation launches the Ho’okele Awards, a program similar to the Gerbode Fellows program that recognizes outstanding community leaders. The Foundation ends its partnership with HCF when the Foundation restructures in 2016. The program continues to be very successful. 2014 Tom Layton retires and Stacie Ma’a replaces him as President. Stacie was hired in 1999 to be the Foundation’s first program officer, and later became its Vice President. Stacie becomes one of the first Native Hawaiian women in the country to lead a family foundation. 2016 The Foundation undergoes a major restructure to allow the third generation of family members to focus on their own interest areas and continue their work in philanthropy. Half the funds remain with the Gerbode Foundation and the other half results in the creation of three individual private foundations. (For more information on the restructure, please see the Press Release here .) 2017 In 2017, a new Board is seated. The new Board consists of Martha Gerbode’s son, Frank A. Gerbode, M.D., his three children Sharon, Colin, and Ian, and Foundation President Stacie Ma’a. 2024 After 24 years, President Stacie Ma’a retires. Aimee Sueko Eng joins the Foundation as Executive Director with over 15 years of significant leadership experience, management and grantmaking expertise, and a deep understanding of the philanthropic and non-profit communities in the Bay Area. After 17 years, Olivia Malabuyo Tablante continues her role with the Foundation as Administrative Director and Program Director for the Special Awards in the Arts Program.   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency All Program Areas — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Program Areas   Photo: Trust for Public Land, Hawaiian Islands   Advancing Truth Truth is power. Gerbode seeks to elevate the voices of truth to counter misinformation. We look to partner with organizations that use media and new technologies as tools to inform and engage the public on critical issues, as well as influence change in current policies and practices that cause harm to individuals, communities and our environment. We are interested in supporting community leaders who are courageous truth tellers and can inspire passion for change, and we embrace authentic and diverse viewpoints, narratives, and solutions that have the potential to alter culture, policy and behavior. Grantees Justice Gerbode is deeply committed to advancing justice for populations that are currently experiencing trauma and persecution due to factors including the color of their skin, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, language spoken, or religious beliefs. We believe in the importance of community-driven strategies and other appropriate approaches, including the critical power of collaboration across communities, sectors, and institutions, as key ingredients of positive social change. Grantees Environment Gerbode seeks to use its resources to heal the relationship between people and the earth. We value the role that communities play in addressing conservation, preservation, and quality of life concerns ranging from the quality of our air, water, and oceans to the preservation of open space and other natural resources. We seek to elevate the issues of environmental justice, which includes access to healthy food, transportation, and safe and healthy neighborhoods. And, we believe in the importance of strategic community planning to ensure that the public sector develops appropriate and effective plans, policies, and procedures to address important urban concerns that result in strong, diverse, and culturally vibrant neighborhoods. Grantees Photo: Robbie Sweeny Arts The Special Awards in the Arts Program supports the creation of new works in dance, theater production, and music composition. These nationally respected awards have helped underwrite acclaimed new works that are culturally and aesthetically diverse, by prominent and emerging artists. These grants have supported artists at critical junctures in their careers; enabled nonprofit local arts groups to develop and debut substantial, original works; and enriched Bay Area audiences, readers, and viewers by giving them first access to ambitious new creations. Grantees Special Initiatives The Foundation promotes and supports a healthy, vibrant, effective, and growing non-profit sector and the philanthropy that supports it. It is also dedicated to building and strengthening the nonprofit field. Unfortunately, this program area is not open to unsolicited proposals. Grantees   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency All Program Areas — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Program Areas   Photo: Trust for Public Land, Hawaiian Islands   Advancing Truth Truth is power. Gerbode seeks to elevate the voices of truth to counter misinformation. We look to partner with organizations that use media and new technologies as tools to inform and engage the public on critical issues, as well as influence change in current policies and practices that cause harm to individuals, communities and our environment. We are interested in supporting community leaders who are courageous truth tellers and can inspire passion for change, and we embrace authentic and diverse viewpoints, narratives, and solutions that have the potential to alter culture, policy and behavior. Grantees Justice Gerbode is deeply committed to advancing justice for populations that are currently experiencing trauma and persecution due to factors including the color of their skin, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, language spoken, or religious beliefs. We believe in the importance of community-driven strategies and other appropriate approaches, including the critical power of collaboration across communities, sectors, and institutions, as key ingredients of positive social change. Grantees Environment Gerbode seeks to use its resources to heal the relationship between people and the earth. We value the role that communities play in addressing conservation, preservation, and quality of life concerns ranging from the quality of our air, water, and oceans to the preservation of open space and other natural resources. We seek to elevate the issues of environmental justice, which includes access to healthy food, transportation, and safe and healthy neighborhoods. And, we believe in the importance of strategic community planning to ensure that the public sector develops appropriate and effective plans, policies, and procedures to address important urban concerns that result in strong, diverse, and culturally vibrant neighborhoods. Grantees Photo: Robbie Sweeny Arts The Special Awards in the Arts Program supports the creation of new works in dance, theater production, and music composition. These nationally respected awards have helped underwrite acclaimed new works that are culturally and aesthetically diverse, by prominent and emerging artists. These grants have supported artists at critical junctures in their careers; enabled nonprofit local arts groups to develop and debut substantial, original works; and enriched Bay Area audiences, readers, and viewers by giving them first access to ambitious new creations. Grantees Special Initiatives The Foundation promotes and supports a healthy, vibrant, effective, and growing non-profit sector and the philanthropy that supports it. It is also dedicated to building and strengthening the nonprofit field. Unfortunately, this program area is not open to unsolicited proposals. Grantees   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency All Program Areas — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Program Areas   Photo: Trust for Public Land, Hawaiian Islands   Advancing Truth Truth is power. Gerbode seeks to elevate the voices of truth to counter misinformation. We look to partner with organizations that use media and new technologies as tools to inform and engage the public on critical issues, as well as influence change in current policies and practices that cause harm to individuals, communities and our environment. We are interested in supporting community leaders who are courageous truth tellers and can inspire passion for change, and we embrace authentic and diverse viewpoints, narratives, and solutions that have the potential to alter culture, policy and behavior. Grantees Justice Gerbode is deeply committed to advancing justice for populations that are currently experiencing trauma and persecution due to factors including the color of their skin, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, language spoken, or religious beliefs. We believe in the importance of community-driven strategies and other appropriate approaches, including the critical power of collaboration across communities, sectors, and institutions, as key ingredients of positive social change. Grantees Environment Gerbode seeks to use its resources to heal the relationship between people and the earth. We value the role that communities play in addressing conservation, preservation, and quality of life concerns ranging from the quality of our air, water, and oceans to the preservation of open space and other natural resources. We seek to elevate the issues of environmental justice, which includes access to healthy food, transportation, and safe and healthy neighborhoods. And, we believe in the importance of strategic community planning to ensure that the public sector develops appropriate and effective plans, policies, and procedures to address important urban concerns that result in strong, diverse, and culturally vibrant neighborhoods. Grantees Photo: Robbie Sweeny Arts The Special Awards in the Arts Program supports the creation of new works in dance, theater production, and music composition. These nationally respected awards have helped underwrite acclaimed new works that are culturally and aesthetically diverse, by prominent and emerging artists. These grants have supported artists at critical junctures in their careers; enabled nonprofit local arts groups to develop and debut substantial, original works; and enriched Bay Area audiences, readers, and viewers by giving them first access to ambitious new creations. Grantees Special Initiatives The Foundation promotes and supports a healthy, vibrant, effective, and growing non-profit sector and the philanthropy that supports it. It is also dedicated to building and strengthening the nonprofit field. Unfortunately, this program area is not open to unsolicited proposals. Grantees   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency All Program Areas — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Program Areas   Photo: Trust for Public Land, Hawaiian Islands   Advancing Truth Truth is power. Gerbode seeks to elevate the voices of truth to counter misinformation. We look to partner with organizations that use media and new technologies as tools to inform and engage the public on critical issues, as well as influence change in current policies and practices that cause harm to individuals, communities and our environment. We are interested in supporting community leaders who are courageous truth tellers and can inspire passion for change, and we embrace authentic and diverse viewpoints, narratives, and solutions that have the potential to alter culture, policy and behavior. Grantees Justice Gerbode is deeply committed to advancing justice for populations that are currently experiencing trauma and persecution due to factors including the color of their skin, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, language spoken, or religious beliefs. We believe in the importance of community-driven strategies and other appropriate approaches, including the critical power of collaboration across communities, sectors, and institutions, as key ingredients of positive social change. Grantees Environment Gerbode seeks to use its resources to heal the relationship between people and the earth. We value the role that communities play in addressing conservation, preservation, and quality of life concerns ranging from the quality of our air, water, and oceans to the preservation of open space and other natural resources. We seek to elevate the issues of environmental justice, which includes access to healthy food, transportation, and safe and healthy neighborhoods. And, we believe in the importance of strategic community planning to ensure that the public sector develops appropriate and effective plans, policies, and procedures to address important urban concerns that result in strong, diverse, and culturally vibrant neighborhoods. Grantees Photo: Robbie Sweeny Arts The Special Awards in the Arts Program supports the creation of new works in dance, theater production, and music composition. These nationally respected awards have helped underwrite acclaimed new works that are culturally and aesthetically diverse, by prominent and emerging artists. These grants have supported artists at critical junctures in their careers; enabled nonprofit local arts groups to develop and debut substantial, original works; and enriched Bay Area audiences, readers, and viewers by giving them first access to ambitious new creations. Grantees Special Initiatives The Foundation promotes and supports a healthy, vibrant, effective, and growing non-profit sector and the philanthropy that supports it. It is also dedicated to building and strengthening the nonprofit field. Unfortunately, this program area is not open to unsolicited proposals. Grantees   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Team — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Team   Staff Featured Aimee Sueko Eng Executive Director Bio Olivia Malabuyo Tablante Special Awards in the Arts Program Director/Administrative Director Bio Isabela Colmenar Program Fellow Board Featured Sharon Gerbode Chair Frank A. Gerbode, MD Vice Chair and Treasurer Colin Gerbode Vice Chair and Secretary Ian Gerbode Board Member Aimee Sueko Eng Board Member Founding Board Members Martha Alexander Gerbode Frank L.A. Gerbode M.D. Second Generation Board Members Maryanna Gerbode Shaw Stockholm Frank A. Gerbode, M.D. Charles Stockholm Third Generation Board Members Sharon Gerbode Sarah Shaw Colin Gerbode President Emeritus Thomas C. Layton (Retired, January 2014) Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency All Program Areas — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Program Areas   Photo: Trust for Public Land, Hawaiian Islands   Advancing Truth Truth is power. Gerbode seeks to elevate the voices of truth to counter misinformation. We look to partner with organizations that use media and new technologies as tools to inform and engage the public on critical issues, as well as influence change in current policies and practices that cause harm to individuals, communities and our environment. We are interested in supporting community leaders who are courageous truth tellers and can inspire passion for change, and we embrace authentic and diverse viewpoints, narratives, and solutions that have the potential to alter culture, policy and behavior. Grantees Justice Gerbode is deeply committed to advancing justice for populations that are currently experiencing trauma and persecution due to factors including the color of their skin, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, language spoken, or religious beliefs. We believe in the importance of community-driven strategies and other appropriate approaches, including the critical power of collaboration across communities, sectors, and institutions, as key ingredients of positive social change. Grantees Environment Gerbode seeks to use its resources to heal the relationship between people and the earth. We value the role that communities play in addressing conservation, preservation, and quality of life concerns ranging from the quality of our air, water, and oceans to the preservation of open space and other natural resources. We seek to elevate the issues of environmental justice, which includes access to healthy food, transportation, and safe and healthy neighborhoods. And, we believe in the importance of strategic community planning to ensure that the public sector develops appropriate and effective plans, policies, and procedures to address important urban concerns that result in strong, diverse, and culturally vibrant neighborhoods. Grantees Photo: Robbie Sweeny Arts The Special Awards in the Arts Program supports the creation of new works in dance, theater production, and music composition. These nationally respected awards have helped underwrite acclaimed new works that are culturally and aesthetically diverse, by prominent and emerging artists. These grants have supported artists at critical junctures in their careers; enabled nonprofit local arts groups to develop and debut substantial, original works; and enriched Bay Area audiences, readers, and viewers by giving them first access to ambitious new creations. Grantees Special Initiatives The Foundation promotes and supports a healthy, vibrant, effective, and growing non-profit sector and the philanthropy that supports it. It is also dedicated to building and strengthening the nonprofit field. Unfortunately, this program area is not open to unsolicited proposals. Grantees   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Our Grantees — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ    Our Grantees     Since the 1970’s, the Foundation has been interested in programs and projects offering the potential for significant impact. The grants generally focused on public policy and advocacy efforts. In 2016, the Foundation underwent a major restructure and a new Board was formed in 2017. (For more information on the restructure, please see the Press Release .) The following grants represent only those made since 2017. Advancing Truth Recipients Justice Recipients Environment Recipients Special Awards in the Arts Recipients Special Initiatives Recipients   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Inquiry — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Contact Us Please direct all correspondence and inquiries to: Gerbode Foundation 1791 Solano Avenue, #F15 Berkeley, CA 94707 Email: [email protected] | Digital Voicemail: (510) 407-0293       Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Special Awards in the Arts — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Arts   Photo: Robbie Sweeny   Since its founding in 1987, the Gerbode Foundation’s Special Awards in the Arts program has been a cornerstone in advancing new work across dance, theater, and music composition. The program champions culturally and aesthetically diverse voices—supporting emerging, mid-career, and legacy artists alike. Through these grants, local nonprofit arts organizations have been able to commission and produce original works, while Bay Area audiences have benefited from a vibrant showcase of the region’s most innovative artists. Please click here to view Special Awards in the Arts recipients since 1987. This program is made possible with generous support from The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. Program Updates and Key Dates March 25, 2026 2026 Music Awards round announced. Read full press release here . View and download Program Guidelines here . Download Application Form (Word) here . View FAQ here . Our application process is designed as a supportive, multi-stage journey— offering opportunities to learn, connect, and refine your proposal along the way. March 24 – mid-June Explore & Connect: sign-up for  Application Workshops  + Drop-in Sessions May 18 – July 7 Deep Engagement & Project Development: sign-up for 1:1 Consultations with Program Director Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 4pm (PT) Program deadline. Application materials must be received by  Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 4:00pm (PT) . Application materials must be emailed to  [email protected] . Gerbode Foundation staff will confirm receipt of all applications once received; there is no need to follow up. 2027 The Gerbode Foundation will celebrate 40 years of the Special Awards in the Arts program with all lead artists and organizations supported by the program. Please include your contact email here to receive any upcoming announcements about attending the 40th-year celebration (Date and details TBD). Program Contact Information Olivia Malabuyo Tablante Program Director Email: [email protected]     Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Environment Recipients — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Environment   The following grants represent only those made since 2017. Click here to view descriptions for Program Areas. Featured Baykeeper 2022 - $40,000; 2020 - $40,000; 2019 - $40,000; 2018 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Communities for a Better Environment 2021 - $30,000 Support of its communications work. 2024 - $30,000; 2020 - $30,000 Support of its work. Read more → Foodcorps, Inc. * 2022 - $40,000 Support of its work in San Francisco. 2021 - $40,000; 2020 - $40,000; 2018 - $40,000 Support of its work in Hawaii. Read more → Fresh Approach 2024 - $75,000; 2023 - $100,000; 2023 - $100,000; 2022 - $100,000; 2021 - $100,000; 2020 - $100,000; 2019 - $100,000; 2018 - $100,000 Support of its work. Read more → Greenbelt Alliance 2024 - $100,000; Support of its Solano Together coalition 2023 - $75,000; 2022 - $50,000; 2021 - $50,000; 2020 - $50,000; 2019 - $50,000; 2018 - $50,000; 2017 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action * 2022 - $25,000 Support of its work. 2021 - $25,000 Support of its communications work. 2020 - $25,000; 2018 - $25,000 Support of its Kuleana Training Program. Read more → Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice * 2022 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Hoi Hoi Ea * 2024 - $25,000 Support of its Aloha ʻĀina Coalition work. Read more → Ka Ala Farm Inc * 2024 - $25,000 Support of its Aloha ʻĀina Coalition work. Read more → Kua’ Āina Ulu ‘Auamo 2020 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Mālama Mākua * 2024 - $50,000 Support of its Aloha ʻĀina Coalition work. Read more → Non-profit Housing Association of Northern California 2017 - $40,000 Support of its work. Read more → Sonoma Ecology Center 2023 - $40,000; 2021 - $40,000; 2018 - $25,000; 2017 - $25,000 Support of its Sonoma Valley Collaborative project. Read more → The Kohala Center * 2020 - $30,000 Support of its work at Kahalu’u Bay. Read more → The Watershed Project 2022 - $25,000; 2021 - $25,000; 2020 - $25,000 Support of its North Richmond Urban Greening master plan. Read more → TransformCA 2020 - $20,000 Support of its executive director transition. Read more → Trust for Public Land * 2021 - $50,000 Support of its Next Generation of Land Protection program. 2023 - $50,000; 2020 - $25,000; 2019 - $25,000; 2018 - $25,000; 2017 - $25,000 Support of its work in Hawaii. Read more → Urban Habitat 2022 - $40,000; 2021 - $40,000; 2020 - $25,000; 2019 - $25,000 Support of its work. Read more →     * Hawaii grant Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency All Program Areas — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Program Areas   Photo: Trust for Public Land, Hawaiian Islands   Advancing Truth Truth is power. Gerbode seeks to elevate the voices of truth to counter misinformation. We look to partner with organizations that use media and new technologies as tools to inform and engage the public on critical issues, as well as influence change in current policies and practices that cause harm to individuals, communities and our environment. We are interested in supporting community leaders who are courageous truth tellers and can inspire passion for change, and we embrace authentic and diverse viewpoints, narratives, and solutions that have the potential to alter culture, policy and behavior. Grantees Justice Gerbode is deeply committed to advancing justice for populations that are currently experiencing trauma and persecution due to factors including the color of their skin, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, language spoken, or religious beliefs. We believe in the importance of community-driven strategies and other appropriate approaches, including the critical power of collaboration across communities, sectors, and institutions, as key ingredients of positive social change. Grantees Environment Gerbode seeks to use its resources to heal the relationship between people and the earth. We value the role that communities play in addressing conservation, preservation, and quality of life concerns ranging from the quality of our air, water, and oceans to the preservation of open space and other natural resources. We seek to elevate the issues of environmental justice, which includes access to healthy food, transportation, and safe and healthy neighborhoods. And, we believe in the importance of strategic community planning to ensure that the public sector develops appropriate and effective plans, policies, and procedures to address important urban concerns that result in strong, diverse, and culturally vibrant neighborhoods. Grantees Photo: Robbie Sweeny Arts The Special Awards in the Arts Program supports the creation of new works in dance, theater production, and music composition. These nationally respected awards have helped underwrite acclaimed new works that are culturally and aesthetically diverse, by prominent and emerging artists. These grants have supported artists at critical junctures in their careers; enabled nonprofit local arts groups to develop and debut substantial, original works; and enriched Bay Area audiences, readers, and viewers by giving them first access to ambitious new creations. Grantees Special Initiatives The Foundation promotes and supports a healthy, vibrant, effective, and growing non-profit sector and the philanthropy that supports it. It is also dedicated to building and strengthening the nonprofit field. Unfortunately, this program area is not open to unsolicited proposals. Grantees   Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ Scroll   Cultivating Creativity and Social Change       We empower courageous leaders and visionary artists who make a positive impact in their communities and inspire others to change the world.   Summary Block This block is invalid. Please check the block settings and try again. Featured Cursus Amet Sed purus sem, scelerisque ac rhoncus eget, porttitor nec odio. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Pellentesque Risus Ridiculus Vivamus pellentesque vitae neque at vestibulum. Donec efficitur mollis dui vel pharetra. Porta Praesent id libero id metus varius consectetur ac eget diam. Nulla felis nunc, consequat laoreet lacus id. Etiam Ultricies Donec id justo non metus auctor commodo ut quis enim. Mauris fringilla dolor vel condimentum imperdiet. Vulputate Commodo Ligula Commodo cursus magna, vel scelerisque nisl consectetur et. Donec id elit non mi porta gravida at eget metus. Elit Condimentum Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vestibulum id ligula porta felis euismod semper. Aenean eu leo Quam Quisque iaculis facilisis lacinia. Mauris euismod pellentesque tellus sit amet mollis. Cursus Amet Sed purus sem, scelerisque ac rhoncus eget, porttitor nec odio. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Pellentesque Risus Ridiculus Vivamus pellentesque vitae neque at vestibulum. Donec efficitur mollis dui vel pharetra. Porta Praesent id libero id metus varius consectetur ac eget diam. Nulla felis nunc, consequat laoreet lacus id.   Feature Program Areas Summary Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Special Awards in the Arts — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Special Awards in the Arts   Photo: Robbie Sweeny   The Gerbode Foundation's Special Awards in the Arts Program, established in 1987, has been a cornerstone in supporting new works across dance, theater production, and music composition. The program has consistently backed culturally and aesthetically diverse works by emerging, mid-career, and legacy artists. These grants have supported artists at critical junctures in their careers, enabled local nonprofit artist-centered groups to produce original works, and enriched Bay Area audiences by showcasing the region’s most promising new works. Click here to view program updates and access the 2026 Music Awards Guidelines & Application Process. 2025 Theater Production Awards In October 2025 , the Gerbode Foundation announced the 2025 Theater Production Awards, awarding a total of $400,000 to support new theater productions led by California artists. These eight projects—spanning hip-hop theater, puppetry, multimedia performance, bilingual storytelling, spoken word, and circus arts—highlight the vision, courage, and creativity that define the region’s artistic landscape. Building on the Foundation’s long legacy of artist-centered support, these awards continue the three-year cycle of the Special Awards in the Arts program, following last year’s Dance & Movement Awards. This initiative continues a longstanding partnership with The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. Featured Circuit Network/Dan Wolf & Carlos Aguirre (Felonious) THE BAG, by the hip-hop theater ensemble Felonious, explores commodification, ageism, and survival through the eyes of an almost washed-up band. Presented in San Francisco by Circuit Network in spring 2026 as a series of workshop performances, the production will serve as a precursor to a potential 2026–27 regional theater run. dan-wolf.com Dan Wolf photo credit: Stefan Cohen FIPPP/Algiin Ford The Silent Assassin is an intimate, theatrical exploration of addiction — revealing how its pervasive and camouflaged grip, particularly within already marginalized and disenfranchised communities, is both deeply personal and universally felt, yet ultimately can be overcome. algiinford.com MARU/Amy Grace Lam & Scarlett Kim Project Quantum Heart is a participatory play-game following assistant professor Em Wong, who after being denied tenure, applies to be a video game designer—only to slip into the game’s landscape, a shadow realm. A Bay Area workshop production and community “belonging toolkit” exploring healing through theatrical storytelling, community ritual, and immersive technology will be presented in 2026. amygracelam.com https://scarlett.kim photo credit (Amy Lam): Mel Hofmann KULARTS/Ramon Abad The Big Whoop Dee Doo , a multimedia theatrical performance and gallery exhibit by Ramon Abad in collaboration with KULARTS, draws inspiration from the “sinulog” parade of the Southern Philippines. Incorporating puppetry, dance, physical theater, live video feeds, and projections, the work explores the stories and struggles of Filipino immigrants. ramon-puppetry.com La Lengua Teatro en Español/Viviana Calderón & Dyana Díaz El silencio árido del agua ( The Arid Silence of Water ) is a world-premiere full-length play commissioned through our Historias de Descolonización multilingual residency. Featuring an ensemble of Bay Area actors, the production will be presented in San Francisco in 2026. sites.google.com/view/vivianacalderon/inicio instagram.com/dydy17didi/ MACLA/Gabriel Cortez Between Two Rising Seas is a 75-minute new play written and performed by Gabriel Cortez. Blending spoken word, archival projections, live sample-based music, and personal narrative, this solo performance examines the interconnected histories of migration, labor, and climate crisis through an Afro-Latinx lens. The work will premiere at MACLA in fall 2027. gabrielmcortez.com Yerba Buena Gardens Festival/Abigail Munn In June 2026, Yerba Buena Gardens Festival and theater-maker Abigail Munn will premiere  Resilience  (working title), featuring 16 performing artists from Circus Bella with live music by the Circus Bella All-Star Band. This heartwarming, high-flying production celebrates the strength of families — both born and chosen — and the invisible threads that connect us. circusbella.org Z Space/Weston Scott JELLYBELLY , a new play by Weston Scott, premieres in workshop at Z Space’s Steindler Stage in August 2026. Born from the “cosmic horror of living in a fat body,” the piece blends vulnerability, dark humor, and technical innovation, marking Scott’s bold reintroduction to the Bay Area theater scene. westonericscott.com 2024 Dance & Movement Awards In October 2024 , the Gerbode Foundation announced the recipients of a $400,000 initiative supporting new dance and movement-based projects by California choreographers, culture bearers, traditional and tradition-based artists, and movement-based artists. The 2024 Dance & Movement Awards mark the first round of the Special Awards in the Arts program, a three-year initiative commissioning new works in dance (2024), theater (2025), and music/sound design (2026). Featured Sarah Crowell/ABD SKYWATCHERS “Calling Us In” explores the connection between housing insecurity and the opioid crisis, emphasizing how empathy and inclusion are crucial to understanding our shared future. Through a process-driven exploration, Sarah will lead a collaborative, process-driven exploration with the SKYWATCHERS ensemble, deeply rooted in San Francisco's Tenderloin district, along with cross-disciplinary artists and advocates for health justice, harm reduction, and community investment. This work comes at a valuable time for the ensemble and Sarah's long-standing practice as an artist, arts educator, and community leader. abdproductions.org Shefali Shah/CubaCaribe “Enraizando/Rooting Within" is a performance led by young women of color who share their personal journeys into womanhood through Bomba, a Puerto Rican music and dance tradition with a legacy of over 400 years. In a world shaped by patriarchy and racism, women are often forced to suppress vulnerabilities as a survival mechanism. This performance challenges that narrative as these young women embrace their vulnerabilities, emerging as stronger, more confident versions of themselves. By connecting with female ancestors and role models, they reclaim their power and tell their stories on their own terms. Through a powerful blend of dance choreography and improvisation, song, percussion, poetry, and film work, they create a space to write their own narratives, honoring their roles as future ancestors. This evening-length performance features both youth performers and Bay Area-based Puerto Rican Bomba music and dance group  Aguacero. aguacero bomba.org Ibrahima Ouseynou Diouf/Diamano Coura "Soundiata Keita, The Lion King of Mali," marks a significant milestone in Ibrahima Ouseynou Diouf’s artistic journey. This production blends Diouf's longstanding exploration of African heritage through dance with innovative multidisciplinary storytelling techniques, incorporating advanced technology for projections, sound, and lighting effects. The opportunity to headline Diamano Coura’s 50th-anniversary celebration with this new work reflects his esteemed General Grantmaking — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   General Grantmaking     Principles Guiding Our Grantmaking The Gerbode Foundation supports projects that: inform and empower communities by utilizing all forms of media and communication tools to advance truth;  advocate at the local, state or federal level for policy changes that improve social and economic outcomes for communities most in need;  mobilize action to change existing policies and practices that perpetuate inequality or discrimination; and leverage key public, private, and philanthropic stakeholders in collaborations or coalitions that strengthen communities. We look for organizations that are led by exceptional leaders, are fiscally sound, and have the potential to leverage our investment with other resources. We also maintain our founder’s entrepreneurial and pioneering spirit by looking for new opportunities to innovate, using unconventional approaches whenever appropriate. Letter of Inquiry Unfortunately, we have paused our Letter of Inquiry process at this time. Click here to be added to the Foundation’s announcement list to be notified of future updates.     Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency General Grantmaking — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   General Grantmaking     Principles Guiding Our Grantmaking The Gerbode Foundation supports projects that: inform and empower communities by utilizing all forms of media and communication tools to advance truth;  advocate at the local, state or federal level for policy changes that improve social and economic outcomes for communities most in need;  mobilize action to change existing policies and practices that perpetuate inequality or discrimination; and leverage key public, private, and philanthropic stakeholders in collaborations or coalitions that strengthen communities. We look for organizations that are led by exceptional leaders, are fiscally sound, and have the potential to leverage our investment with other resources. We also maintain our founder’s entrepreneurial and pioneering spirit by looking for new opportunities to innovate, using unconventional approaches whenever appropriate. Letter of Inquiry Unfortunately, we have paused our Letter of Inquiry process at this time. Click here to be added to the Foundation’s announcement list to be notified of future updates.     Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Special Initiatives — Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ   Special Initiatives   The following grants represent only those made since 2017. Click here to view descriptions for Program Areas.   Arts Featured Arts for Oakland Kids 2021 - $40,000; 2020 - $35,000; 2019 - $30,000 Support of its work. The Center for Cultural Innovation 2022 - $40,000 Support of its East Bay Relief Fund for Individuals in the Arts program. Community Music Center 2023 - $40,000; 2021 - $40,000; 2020 - $40,000; 2019 - $40,000; 2018 - $40,000 Support of its work. Dancers’ Group 2021 - $40,000 Filipino-American Development Foundation 2024 - $15,000 Support of Pin@y Educational Partnership’s touring grant for Pat Cruz’s “Art of Work” dance film. Magic Theatre 2021 - $30,000 Support of its executive transition. The Mahea Uchiyama Center of International Dance 2024 - $15,000 Support for a touring grant. The Living Word Project (fiscal sponsor: Intersection) 2022 - $25,000 Support of its work. Theatre Bay Area 2024 - $25,000 Support of its CA$H Sustains program. Special Projects Featured Kua'āina Ulu 'Auamo $15,000 Legacy gift in honor of Stacie Ma’a.  Strengthening the Philanthropic and Nonprofit Sector Featured Asian American Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy 2021 - $1,000; 2020 – $1,000 Support of its work. Asian Pacific Fund 2020 - $5,000; 2019 - $5,000 Support of its Asian Pacific Islander Summit. California Association of Nonprofits 2021 - $10,000; 2020 - $10,000 Support of its work. Foundation Center 2019 - $5,000; 2018 - $5,000; 2017 - $5,000 Support of its San Francisco Library Learning Center. Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrants and Refugees 2023 - $5,000; 2022 -$5,000; 2021 - $5,000; 2020 - $5,000; 2019 - $5,000; 2018 - $5,000; 2017 - $5,000 Support of its work. Grantmakers in the Arts 2024 - $5,000; 2022 - $5,000; 2021 - $5,000; 2020 - $5,000; 2019 - $5,000; 2018 - $5,000 Support of its work. Hawai‘i Community Foundation * 2024 - $25,000 Support of its Ho’okele Non-profit Leadership Awards. Ho’iwai Fund * 2024 - $2,500 Support of its work. Justice Funders 2022 - $2,500; 2021 - $2,500; 2020 - $2,500; 2019 - $2,500; 2018 - $2,500; 2017 - $2,500 Support of its Bay Area Justice Funder’s Network. Leaderspring (fiscal sponsor: Tides Center) 2018 - $25,000 Support of its executive leadership transition. National Center for Family Philanthropy 2022 - $10,000; 2017 - $1,500 Support of its work. Northern California Grantmakers 2024 - $5,000; 2023 - $5,000; 2022 - $5,000; 2021 - $5,000; 2020 - $5,000; 2019 - $5,000; 2018 - $5,000; 2017 - $5,000 Support of its work. 2024 - $5,000; 2023 - $5,000; 2020 - $5,000 Support of its Arts Loan Fund. Parents and Children Together * 2024 - $10,000 Support of Ryan Kusumoto’s 2023 Ho’okele Award. Regents of the University of California at Berkeley 2020 - $30,000; 2019 - $5,000; 2018 - $25,000 Support of its professional program in fundraising and volunteer management. World Central Kitchen, Inc. 2024 - $10,000 Support of its Rapid Response Field Kitchen program. Covid-19 Emergency Grants Featured Ashby Village, Inc. 2020 - $15,000 Support of its work. Aurora Theatre Company 2020 - $15,000 Support of its work. Campo Santo (fiscal sponsor: Intersection for the Arts) 2020 - $15,000 Support of its work. Center for Cultural Innovation 2020 - $30,000 Support of the East Bay Individuals in the Arts Relief Fund. Common Counsel Foundation 2020 - $40,000 Support of its Still We Rise Fund work in the Bay Area. Crowded Fire Theater Company 2020 - $15,000 Support of its work. CubaCaribe 2020 - $15,000 Support of its work. Dancing Earth (fiscal sponsor: Intersection for the Arts) 2020 - $15,000 Support of its work. Horizons Foundation 2020 - $40,000 Support of its LGBTQ COVID-19 Responsive Emergency Fund for SF Bay Area organizations. Kularts 2020 - $15,000 Support of its work. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre 2020 - $25,000 Support of its work. Renaissance Journalism (fiscal sponsor: Community Initiatives) 2020 - $20,000 Support of its emergency grant program for Bay Area nonprofit news outlets. The Living Word Project (fiscal sponsor: Intersection for the Arts) 2020 - $15,000 Support of its work. Outreach for Census 2020 Featured Arab Resource Organizing Center (fiscal sponsor: Tides Center) 2019 - $20,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. Contra Costa Family Justice Alliance 2019 - $25,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. East Bay Community Foundation 2018 - $50,000 Support of its Bay Area Census 2020 project. Family Bridges, Inc. 2019 - $25,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. Filipino Advocates for Justice 2019 - $20,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. Korean Community Center of the East Bay 2019 - $25,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. La Luz Center 2019 - $25,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. Lao Family Community Development 2019 - $20,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. One East Palo Alto 2019 - $25,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. Peninsula Conflict Resolution Center 2019 - $30,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. Vietnamese American Community Center of the East Bay 2019 - $20,000 Support of its outreach for Census 2020. * Hawaii grant Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency Gerbode Foundation Home About Program Areas Past Grantees To Apply FAQ Back History Team Contact Back All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Back Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives Back General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts Home About History Team Contact Program Areas All Advancing Truth Justice Environment Arts Special Initiatives Past Grantees Our Grantees Advancing Truth Justice Environment Special Awards in the Arts Special Initiatives To Apply General Grantmaking Special Awards in the Arts FAQ Scroll   Cultivating Creativity and Social Change       We empower courageous leaders and visionary artists who make a positive impact in their communities and inspire others to change the world.   Summary Block This block is invalid. Please check the block settings and try again. Featured Cursus Amet Sed purus sem, scelerisque ac rhoncus eget, porttitor nec odio. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Pellentesque Risus Ridiculus Vivamus pellentesque vitae neque at vestibulum. Donec efficitur mollis dui vel pharetra. Porta Praesent id libero id metus varius consectetur ac eget diam. Nulla felis nunc, consequat laoreet lacus id. Etiam Ultricies Donec id justo non metus auctor commodo ut quis enim. Mauris fringilla dolor vel condimentum imperdiet. Vulputate Commodo Ligula Commodo cursus magna, vel scelerisque nisl consectetur et. Donec id elit non mi porta gravida at eget metus. Elit Condimentum Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vestibulum id ligula porta felis euismod semper. Aenean eu leo Quam Quisque iaculis facilisis lacinia. Mauris euismod pellentesque tellus sit amet mollis. Cursus Amet Sed purus sem, scelerisque ac rhoncus eget, porttitor nec odio. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Pellentesque Risus Ridiculus Vivamus pellentesque vitae neque at vestibulum. Donec efficitur mollis dui vel pharetra. Porta Praesent id libero id metus varius consectetur ac eget diam. Nulla felis nunc, consequat laoreet lacus id.   Feature Program Areas Summary Home History Team Contact Program Areas Past Grantees General Grantmaking Arts Letter of Inquiry FAQ   Designed by Plinth Agency