How to Apply

1. Login

Login to the NAR Diversity Reimbursement grant portal with your nar.realtor login and password

2. Create

Start your online Diversity Reimbursement grant application. 

4. Save

During the Call for Applications period, your application can be saved as DRAFT until all the required information is completed. As each section is complete, you will see a appear in the category tab when the application is saved. At any time, you can download and print your application by clicking on the icon in the Application Summary section.

5. Submit

On completion, submit your Application as FINAL. Download and print a copy of your application for your records by clicking on the icon in the Application Summary section in the right column. Note: Once your application has been submitted as final you will not be able to make updates..

If you require assistance or additional information, please contact Kelsi Dunn, KDunn@nar.realtor.

Ideas for Using a Diversity and Inclusion Reimbursement Grant

The following activities help to position the association and members as leaders on diversity, equity & inclusion efforts and help meet the association’s diversity, equity and inclusion goals. Use these ideas for inspiration. This is not a complete list of activities that qualify for grant support. If you have an idea but are not sure if it is eligible for a grant, email Kelsi Dunn, KDunn@nar.realtor

Level 1

Attend multicultural real estate organization conference: Association leaders and staff attend national conferences to support and network with local chapter leaders.

Guest Speaker: Host a local or national speaker to discuss a particular aspect of diversity, equity, and inclusion issues.

Hold a Class: Provide education opportunities for leaders and/or members to learn about diversity, equity and inclusion issues and how they can support local DEI efforts.

Level 2

DEI Summit: Bring together REALTORS®, consumers, and community stakeholders to discuss the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion local efforts to ensure equity for all. Speaker Series: Organize a series of three or more speakers around a theme, such as working with clients with disabilities, or recognizing implicit bias.

Develop DEI Strategic Plan: Work with a consultant to develop an association DEI plan to help guide association DEI strategies.

Work in Partnership: Collaborate with a local multicultural real estate organization to increase awareness and knowledge of equity housing issues in the community.

No Cost Ideas

These ideas can be executed for free, using your association’s existing resources. Consider doing one or more in addition to, or to enhance another activity.

Issue a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commitment Statement: Work with REALTOR® members and association leaders to develop a DEI statement recognizing the importance of equal housing opportunities.

Share Stories: Use the association’s existing newsletter, social media, podcasts or other communication channels to feature successful association DEI efforts initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for Diversity and Inclusion grants?

Applications can only be submitted by a state or local REALTOR® association.

What are the maximum funding amounts?

There are two levels of funding. Requests may be made up to the noted maximums; however, a lesser amount may be awarded based on the evaluation of the application.

• Level 1 – $1,000 maximum award
• Level 2 – $5,000 maximum award

How many grants can my association receive in a calendar year?

An association can receive one grant per funding level, per calendar year.

Can the Fair Housing grant cover expenses for our association to host the At Home With Diversity course?

Yes, since it is a NAR Fair Housing course option, eligible expenses associated with offering the course can be covered. Previously, At Home With Diversity was funding by the Diversity & Inclusion grant. This change ensures support option alignment with NAR’s new Fair Housing/Anti-Bias Training requirements for all members.

How can the Level 1 grant be used?

Level 1 Diversity grants support state and local REALTOR® associations in their efforts to strengthen, support, and collaborate with local chapters of national multicultural real estate organizations to expand homeownership opportunities. Eligible activities include association leadership and senior staff attendance at national conferences and sponsorship of local chapter events. Maximum award: $1,000

How can the Level 2 grant be used?

Level 2 Diversity grants support state and local REALTOR® association efforts aimed at increasing diversity and inclusion among leadership in the association. Associations can use this grant for discussions or workshops with specific learning outcomes and educational value, or for planning activities that integrate diversity and inclusion into their core work. The grant may also be used to advance diversity and inclusion in strategic planning, assessment, and implementation processes. Activities should focus on increasing diversity among association leadership and addressing racial injustice issues in the community. Associations are encouraged to collaborate with other organizations to help achieve their diversity, equity, and inclusion goals.

The following are eligible uses of grant funds:

• Instructor or consultant fees
• Course licensing/application fees (AHWD)
• Outside venue rental
• Refreshments
• Creation of marketing and event/education related materials

The following are NOT eligible uses of grant funds:

• REALTOR® association staff time/hours including contract staff
• General operating expenses for the REALTOR® association or partner organization
• Donations to an organization or person including down payment or closing cost assistance
• Landscaping materials, home furnishings, or similar items
• Materials for construction/rehab of a property or purchase of land
• Fundraising contributions or money to hold a fundraiser
• In-house association classroom rental fee
• Subscription fees for videoconferencing services
• Membership fees for multicultural real estate organizations

How far in advance should I submit a grant application?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis starting in January until the funding commitment level is reached. They should be submitted at least 30 to 45 days before the date of the initiative or activity. Applications for events that have already occurred or submitted less than 30 days will not be considered unless previously approved. Approval notifications will be sent approximately 7 to 10 business days after submission.

We are partnering with another REALTOR® association for an activity. Can we both apply for a grant?

Up to four associations can apply for funding for the same activity. However, an association cannot submit for the same eligible expense, and cannot exceed the maximum grant limit. In addition, please note NAR’s Territorial Jurisdiction Policy.

If my association is approved for a grant, when will we receive the funding?

Funds are disbursed through a reimbursement process. The association must submit required documentation (outlined below) and complete an online evaluation about the grant activity. Please note that if revenue (such as ticket sales) exceeds the cost of the initiative then no grant funds are paid.

Can I change my activity after the application is approved?

Grant awards are made based on the activity scope on the application. Reimbursements will not be issued for activities that were not approved. If your activity scope has changed, please notify the Diversity Grant staff team that you are canceling your current approved grant and submit a new grant application if funds are still available.

What is the funding process for reimbursement?

Applications approved must file for reimbursement no later than 30 days following the initiative/activity.

Submit online evaluation form describing initiative's impact.

Submit reimbursement form, W9, proof of payment (receipts/cancelled checks) no later than 30 days of activity completion to receive reimbursement.

What criteria are used to evaluate grant applications?

Alignment with Diversity and Inclusion Grant Program

Does the proposed initiative/activity strengthen, support and collaborate with local chapters of national multicultural real estate organizations to help expand homeownership opportunities; increase the inclusion of diversity among association leadership; address racial disparities in your community.

Articulation of Issue

Does the applicant thoroughly explain the diversity, equity and inclusion issue that needs to be addressed?

Quality of the Proposed Activity

Is the proposed activity of high-quality with a clear purpose, well-defined action items, and measurable goals?

Level of Commitment

Does the proposed activity involve a significant level of commitment in terms of member involvement and staff time?