#United States #Los Angeles #LA2050 #Goldhirsh Foundation

LA2050 Grants Challenge: Empowering Local Nonprofits

In an inspiring initiative to support community-driven solutions, the LA2050 Grants Challenge has allocated nearly $3 million to 55 nonprofit organizations across Los Angeles. This funding, awarded on October 8, 2025, represents a successful demonstration of participatory grantmaking, allowing the community to voice its priorities and drive change.

Understanding the LA2050 Grants Challenge

The LA2050 Grants Challenge is an influential program orchestrated by the Goldhirsh Foundation, aimed at fostering innovative approaches to tackle pressing issues within the region. This year's theme, "LA, Together," profoundly resonated with the communities following the catastrophic wildfires that affected the area earlier in the year. The grants promote a diversified range of initiatives, including:

• - Career Programs: Initiatives like the Forestry Fire Recruitment Program focus on helping formerly incarcerated individuals access firefighting careers.
• - Media Literacy: The Los Angeles Reporting Collective provides adult education workshops, enhancing media literacy among residents.
• - Community Transportation: The Downtown San Pedro Community Foundation developed a free electric trolley system to improve local transit accessibility.
• - Environmental Education: The LA Compost’s Magic Soil Bus educates youth about the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement.
• - Housing Assistance: Union Station Homeless Services offers support to families displaced by the recent Eaton fires.

A Collaborative Effort

The funding for this year's challenge highlights a remarkable collaboration of twelve local foundations, with the Goldhirsh Foundation contributing $1 million. Partner organizations include prominent foundations such as The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation and the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, among others. Their collective support showcases a unified commitment to fostering resilience and resourcefulness in the community.

The Grant Selection Process

The uniqueness of the LA2050 Grants Challenge lies in its participatory funding model, engaging the community directly in the decision-making process. Over 140,000 votes were cast by Angelenos, identifying the top ten priority issues affecting their lives. Subsequently, a record-breaking 1,182 proposals were submitted in response to these challenges.

After careful evaluation with the help of SJPLA and funding partners, grantees were chosen based on their innovative approaches and relevance to the pressing needs identified. Year after year, issues such as affordable housing and homelessness continue to emerge as top priorities for voters.

Celebration of Innovation and Resilience

On the announcement day, grantees gathered at The Huntington for the LA2050 Grantee Showcase. Civic leaders, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, provided keynote addresses celebrating the resilience of local organizations. The event also highlighted contributions from youth representatives, emphasizing the importance of involving younger generations in community initiatives and grantmaking processes.

Expanding Impact

In addition to financial support, the Goldhirsh Foundation is committed to empowering grantees through technical assistance, networking opportunities, and mentorship. Recognizing that a sustainable impact requires comprehensive support, they have also initiated a pilot leadership development program for nonprofit executives, encouraging innovative practices away from everyday operations.

Furthermore, nearly 300 organizations have benefited from free AI consulting and training, illustrating the Foundation's commitment to equipping nonprofits with essential tools for growth and success.

Voices from the Community

Suzy Jack, chief strategy officer at The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation, expressed pride in supporting this community-driven project, emphasizing the importance of accessible pathways that empower Angelenos, particularly youth.

Joel Arquillos, executive director of the Snap Foundation, echoed similar sentiments, stating that such bold initiatives symbolize the community's power and creativity needed to uplift its members across Los Angeles County.

The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation also voiced its commitment to supporting youth and young adults in thriving careers, reinforcing the necessity of partnerships for meaningful change.

Conclusion

The LA2050 Grants Challenge stands as a testament to the creativity, resilience, and collaborative spirit of Los Angeles. As the Goldhirsh Foundation continues to innovate and respond to community needs, this initiative not only showcases successful projects but also inspires a vision for a brighter, more inclusive future for all Angelenos.