I Be Black Girl
/OVERVIEW: I Be Black Girl is a local women’s giving circle that supports the development of Black women and girls in the Omaha, Nebraska metro area.
FUNDING AREAS: Black women and girls
IP TAKE: This is a new women’s giving circle, the only one of its kind in the region, and an accessible resource for grants that help Black women and girls.
PROFILE: I Be Black Girl (IBBG) is a women’s philanthropic giving circle based in Omaha, Nebraska. IBBG’s name was inspired by the author Bell Hooks’ Be Boy Buzz children’s book, which is viewed as capturing the essence of what it means to be Black and female in the modern world. IBBG is the only giving circle in Omaha specifically committed to Black women. It is led by an advisory committee that consists of at least six members. IBBG aims to “create space so Black women can be.” IBBG funds local efforts for the development of Black women and girls.
I Be Black Girl is a community partner of the Women’s Fund of Omaha, which is the fiscal sponsor of IBBG. As a giving circle, IBBG pools together member donations to support the local community and transform the landscape of local philanthropy. The group awarded its inaugural grants in 2019 to fund projects that serve at least 75 percent Black women and girls. Grantees are typically led by Black women, serve 51 percent or more low-to-moderate income people, provide members with volunteer opportunities, and reflect the values of equity, inclusion, and humanity. It is not necessary to be affiliated with a 501c3 nonprofit to apply for funding. However, IBBG often prioritizes small grassroots efforts. IBBG also hosts networking sessions and events, such as business forums, meetups, film screenings, and mixers.
Grants range between about $1,000 and $10,000. Learn more about this funder’s local giving by attending a grant application informational session. Grantmaking focuses on the Omaha metro area in Nebraska. Past local grantees include Curls on the Block, LIIT Ladies in IT, and Peace of Mine Young Women’s Self Care Retreat.
This foundation accepts unsolicited grant applications from nonprofits. IBBG typically opens up its grant application process of the spring of each year. Direct general questions to the staff at ibeblackgirl@gmail.com.
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