B.I.G. – Black Ideas Grant 2.0
COMMUNITY SELECTION CIRCLES APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED.
FFBC is a first-of-its-kind institution, and our goal is to understand, recognize, and celebrate solutions-making in Black communities. But first, we need the voice and expertise of all Black communities. Our unique approach embraces a Participatory Grantmaking Process —a process grounded in interconnectedness and shared improvement. This approach places significant emphasis on the knowledge, creativity, experiences, and ideas of those closest to the desired outcome of the programming. All grant applications will be reviewed by Black community members – FFBC's Community Selection Circles (CSC).
Thank you for your interest in joining our Community Selection Circles! Applications are now closed.
B.I.G. – Black Ideas Grant 2.0
What is a Community Selection Circle?
Community Selection Circles (CSC) are participatory, community-based decision-making groups that help FFBC review, score, and recommend applications for funding. CSCs are local, with members in every province, and they focus on evaluating applications from their specific regions.
How do I apply for a CSC nomination?
CSC nominations are open from September 3rd and will close on September 30, 2024, at 11:59 PM PT. To apply, submit your nomination through (Community Selection Circles). The selection committee will review your submission, and you will receive an email from FFBC by October 21, 2024, confirming whether you have been selected.
Will CSC members receive training and coaching to assess applications?
CSC training will be scheduled for 1-3 hours during the first two weeks of November 2024, before the grant review period. This mandatory training will cover the review process, scoring metrics, and all related aspects to ensure a fair and consistent review.
When is the grant review, and how will it be conducted?
The grant review period is from November 15 - December 13, 2024 (four weeks). Reviews will be conducted through the SMApply portal.
If selected to be a CSC member, how will I access the reviewer portal?
You will receive an email from SMApply with login information. CSC members will also receive training on using SMApply to review and score applications.
How much time am I expected to dedicate to the assessment process?
Each application is expected to take up to 30 minutes to review and assess. We estimate a reviewer could spend up to 10 hours to complete a review of 20 applications (with an average of 20 applications that will be assigned to each reviewer).
Will I be acknowledged for my time?
Yes, Community Selection Circles members are eligible to receive a maximum amount of $400 CAD (Canadian dollars). This amount will be an honorarium for participation in the CSC review and any related activities or tasks. Please note that this is the maximum amount that will be provided, and that the final figure may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each individual member.
If selected to join Community Selection Circles, what do I need to get ready?
Check out our website (https://forblackcommunities.org/) to get familiar with Black Ideas Grants (B.I.G) 2024. Be sure to block some time in your calendar for the review period expected to take place between November 15 to December 13, 2024, to secure your availability.
Expect to hear back from FFBC if you have been selected for CSC (check your inbox regularly).
What if I have questions?
Please contact us at via email at [email protected] .
B.I.G. – Black Ideas Grant 2.0
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN & WILL CLOSE ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 at 11:59PT
FFBC is a first-of-its-kind institution, and our goal is to understand, recognize, and celebrate solutions-making in Black communities. But first, we need the voice and expertise of all Black communities. Our unique approach embraces a Participatory Grantmaking Process —a process grounded in interconnectedness and shared improvement. This approach places significant emphasis on the knowledge, creativity, experiences, and ideas of those closest to the desired outcome of the programming. All grant applications will be reviewed by Black community members – FFBC’s Community Selection Circles (CSC).
This year, we are looking to empower and incorporate an even broader spectrum of voices in our decision-making process and are looking for more CSC members. The B.I.G. Black Ideas Grant 2.0 represents a transformative investment of $ 9.1 million, aimed at supporting solutions-oriented initiatives that propel our communities towards greater achievements and insights.
Nominate Yourself or a Peer:
We encourage you to nominate yourself or any member of your network you believe would be a beneficial member of this year’s Community Selection Circles. Your recommendations help ensure that our circles are diverse, knowledgeable, and truly representative of the Black communities across Canada.
How to Nominate:
Please visit here to submit your nomination or recommend someone whose contributions could make a significant difference. The deadline for nominations is September 30th, 2024.
Join us in making a substantial impact through collective effort and shared wisdom. Your participation and nominations are crucial to our continued success and collective progress.
Applications open on September 3, 2024 and close on September 30, 2024 at 11:59 PT.
If you have any further questions, please contact us at [email protected]