In honor of Juneteenth, the Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF) and the Black Equity Initiative of the Inland Empire (BEI-IE) are proud to announce their largest grantmaking round to date—$2.2 million awarded to 42 Black-led and Black-serving organizations across the Inland Empire through the IE Black Equity Fund.
This significant investment reflects the Fund’s deep commitment to advancing racial equity and uplifting the work of grassroots leaders and nonprofits driving change in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.
“These organizations are at the heart of Black excellence and community strength,” said Dina Walker, Co-Chair of the IE Black Equity Fund and Executive Director at BLU Educational Foundation. “On Juneteenth, we honor their impact by ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive.”
The grants support transformative projects that foster systemic change and empower the Black community in the IE, amplifying their voices and vision throughout the region.
Applicants were eligible to apply for funding across four tiers, including the newly introduced AD 60 Tier. This tier was specifically created to support institution-building efforts for organizations operating within Assemblymember Corey Jackson’s District 60 in Riverside County. In early April, the Assemblymember’s office also hosted a Grantee Reception and Capacity Building Training for all awardees in District 60, providing an opportunity for connection, learning, and support.
Recent BEI-IE Conference + Funder Convening
BEI-IE recently held its Conference + Funder Convening at Riverside City College with the goal of enhancing the Inland Empire’s impact and capacity to drive racial equity. The event brought together community-based organizations, partners, and funders to align on strategies, strengthen relationships, and explore collaborative ways to promote Black equity in the region. The conference included engaging morning panel discussions featuring funders, as well as a series of interactive workshop sessions designed specifically for Black-led organizations.
Launched in 2020, the IE Black Equity Fund continues to grow as a powerful force for systemic change in the Inland Empire. For more information or to donate to the IE Black Equity Fund, visit iegives.org/ieblackequityfund.
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