We're Doubling Our Grants. Here's Why.

Over six grant cycles, we had the honor of distributing nearly $500,000 to 32 grant projects overseen by deaf organizations and programs.   

What incredible achievements these grant projects were -- more than we ever dreamed. None of this work was possible without a community that keeps showing up for each other. But times have changed, and not in favor of deaf organizations. 

The Stakes Have Never Been Higher 

Deaf organizations and programs are facing serious challenges right now, including threats to their tax-exempt status, federal funding cuts, and ramped up competition for every other type of grant available. These are real threats that prevent access, progress, and the wellbeing of our deaf communities. 

Amidst these challenging times, here's the number that keeps showing up: only 1% of the $37.2 billion in grants awarded annually goes toward disability justice organizations. These grants are part of how nonprofits fund their work. Without them, programs disappear and lifechanging services stop. And out of that already tiny pool of dollars, deaf organizations are getting almost none of it. 

They are getting less than 1%. That is not enough. 

What We Found Out 

We wanted to get a pulse on what our deaf organizations and programs across the country were truly experiencing. So, we polled deaf organization leaders who attended our webinars last year: 

• 65% reported feeling uncertainty about where their next round of funding would come from 

• 55% were already seeing or bracing for a drop in funding 

• 45% were also seeing more people reaching out for help 

The programs and services of deaf nonprofits are the backbone of our deaf communities. They show up where larger systems fall short, bringing meaningful support to people who need it most. This financial pressure on organizations working with deaf communities cannot continue unchecked. 

Our Response: Double Down 

DOF is the only funder in the country that exists specifically to support deaf nonprofits and programs. And this year, we're doubling down. 

In past years, we awarded an average of $100,000 annually among 4 to 6 organizations. This year, with the support of our donors, we raised twice that amount. Every dollar is going directly to deaf organizations and programs.  

This is the exciting part we've been waiting to share. The 2026 Impact Grant for Deaf Organizations is here. Ten deaf organizations and programs will each receive $20,000. Recipients can use the grant award however best serves their mission and community, but priority will be given to proposals that address the urgent, time-sensitive needs of their community and/or the long-term, sustainability needs of the organization. 

Who Can Apply 

The 2026 Impact Grant is open to tax-exempt organizations and programs based in the U.S that primarily serve deaf communities. We define deaf communities as including people who identify as Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, or Hard of Hearing. 

The application process is accessible in both English and American Sign Language (ASL). Applicants can preview all the application questions in these languages before applying.  

A Note of Gratitude 

We don't take any of this for granted. This work is only possible because of you: our community of organizations, donors, our parent organization Communication Service for the Deaf (CSD), and our grantees that we have funded along the way. Thank you. 

Organizations working with deaf communities deserve more. Let's keep going. 

To learn more and access the application, visit deaforganizationsfund.org/application.