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.

How can the Level 1 grant be used?

Level 1 Diversity grants support efforts that strengthen, support, and collaborate with local chapters of national multicultural real estate organizations to help expand homeownership opportunities. Types of activities may include association and staff attendance at national conferences; sponsor local chapter events. Maximum award: $1,000

How can the Level 2 grant be used?

Level 2 Diversity grants support efforts that expand the inclusion of diversity among association leadership, and planning and discussion activities that address racial disparities in your community.  Associations may use this grant for discussions or workshops with clear learning outcomes and educational value. Types of activities may include NAR’s At Home With Diversity class; diversity education programming designed to expand inclusion and diversity in the fabric of the association’s leadership; discussions, planning or activities that address racial injustice in your communities.

The following are eligible uses of grant funds:

  • Instructor or consultant fees
  • 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

Is my association required to make a financial contribution toward our activity in order to qualify for a grant?

As part of NAR’s Right Tools, Right Now, the 10% financial contribution requirement is waived for any association that requests reimbursement between January 2nd, 2024 through December 31, 2024

How far in advance should I submit a grant application?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis between January through October or until commitment level reaches capacity, and should be submitted at least 30-45 days before the date of the activity. Approval notifications are forwarded approximately 7-10 business days from submittal.

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, 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) one time 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.

Funding Process Details

Applications approved between January through October must file for reimbursement no later than 30 days following activity.

Submit online evaluation form describing initiative 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 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?