Black-led. Rooted in community. Equity in action.

The Unity Fund

The Unity Fund is a catalyst for equity and justice—created by and for African Heritage communities in our region. Grounded in local leadership and lived experience, the Fund invests in bold solutions that remove barriers, build opportunity, and celebrate the strength of Black communities across the Northland.

Donate grant application process

Juneteenth

Family Rise Together

our purpose

Everyone deserves the chance to thrive.

The Unity Fund exists to ensure that people of African Heritage can fully participate in, shape, and benefit from the social and economic life of our region. By addressing systemic inequities head-on, we’re working together to open doors, shift power, and build a future rooted in dignity, inclusion, and shared prosperity.

The Unity Fund supports projects and programs that:

Increase access to housing and home ownership
Grow innovative Black-owned businesses
Preserve and celebrate
Black culture and history
Eliminate health disparities and improve well-being
Expand access to education, career development, and leadership opportunities

Grant Details

Individual organizations may apply for a $5,000 - $10,000 grant award. Collaborative projects may apply for a $5,000 - $25,000 grant award.

A stronger, more equitable community grows economic vitality and opportunities for everyone. Your contribution supports opportunities for African Heritage families to grow and prosper across the Northland.

Donate Grant Guidelines

Grantees

Grants Awarded by
the Unity Fund

2023

Divine Konnections, Inc. – Annie’s House of Refuge & Restoration
Duluth Art Institute – Ta-coumba Exhibit, Publishing and Marketing
Family Freedom Center – Black Parents Association
Health Equity Northland – Community Impact
Vita Nova, formerly Housing for Inmates – HFI Opera
Boreal Bliss Scholarship Foundation – Winter 2024
African Heritage Commission, City of Duluth – Community Center Vision

2024

Duluth Branch NAACP– NAACP 50th Annual Juneteenth Jamboree
Health Equity Northland – Juneteenth, Celebrate Freedom, Honor the Past
Health Equity Northland – Reconnecting Community with Collaboration
Voices for Ethnic and Multicultural Awareness – Juneteenth on the Range
Family Rise Together – Juneteenth Celebration
Maji ya Chai Land Sanctuary – Capacity Building

2025

First Lutheran Church Foundation - Dialogue in Action with Dr. Jamar Tisby
Zeitgeist Center for Arts and Community - American Son

The Unity Fund was created by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, the Ordean Foundation, and Generations Health Care Initiatives. The committee membership is made up of African-heritage individuals from the Duluth area and the Iron Range.