Empowering Visionary Changemakers with Seed Funding for Global Transformation.
$1000
GRANTED EVERY DAY
CHANGEMAKERS
COUNTRIES ACROSS THE GLOBE
Seeding a community
of #changemakers
The Pollination Project is a collaborative Foundation that offers seed funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Our network of sixty five grant advisors and five country coordinators, each an expert in their respective fields, leads our funding decisions.
This participatory grantmaking process aligns with our ethos of empowering individuals on the front lines to effect positive change within their communities, cultures, and countries.
Beyond financial support, The Pollination Project Foundation assists grantees in taking their initial steps towards fundraising and offers first belief in their mission. Additionally, we offer capacity-building workshops, mindfulness retreats to prevent burnout, and resource navigation to ensure that our grantees’ work achieves tangible goals.
At TPP, we believe in people, so we invest in people.
#Heartivist
of the week:
Holly Hummel: Motivating Environmental Awareness Through Sports in Panama
Location: PANAMA
Holly created “For the Love of the Ocean,” a project blending sports and environmental awareness to engage her community in climate change actions through ocean sports. The event, set for April 21, 2024, at Las Cabañas Beach, Bocas del Toro, will feature beach cleaning, yoga, recycled art workshops, water sports, and a cultural dance performance, aiming to educate and foster civic engagement on sustainability and ocean conservation. Following the event, Holly will launch a bilingual podcast series discussing ocean habitats, climate action, and conservation efforts, further extending the impact of her project. To facilitate this, she sought funding for necessary equipment through The Pollination Project.
“When I got the news about receiving the grant I was super excited because it is so difficult to get a grant as an individual.”
ShiftHappens: Our Blog:
The stories behind the grants
Working Towards Universal Protection for Animals
No country received the best grade on the Voiceless Animal Cruelty Index or the World Animal Protection Index. “The better we treat the animals, the better this world will be,” Maida Šabeta-Lemajić, Animal Advocate, Lawyer, Campaigner, and Fundraising Manager for the...
Empowering 1 Million Women Entrepreneurs in Africa
1 out of every 3 Sub-Saharan African women are unemployed, UN. “When women are empowered the entire community and the entire world benefits,” Oluwaseyi Tolulope Kehinde-Peters, Entrepreneur and Founder of PAWEN.There is nothing more noble than to work to provide our...
Teaching Children to Care for the Environment in Uganda
50% of deaths from stroke and ischaemic heart disease in Uganda are caused by air pollution, WHO. “Engaging future generations in environmental care gives me hope. Climate action is something we all have to look for and work together,” Rachel Nakimuli, Founder of...
“We’re very grateful for the Pollination Project’s support. This organization was the first (outside of our first supporters) to believe in our mission.
As a result of this grant, we have gained credibility in the refugee community and will be able to continue to grow and work towards achieving our mission.”
Linnie Pawlek, Financial Literacy For Refugees
Colorado, USA
Profiles in compassion: The Story of Lava Mae
Find out how a small donation of $1000 helped launch a successful national model for homeless services. The Pollination Project makes small startup grants every single day of the year- all over the world.
A look behind the scenes
#helpthehelpers
Iy`s Volunteer`s Week!!! 🌟 Celebrating our family of Grant Advisors 🌟
With 80 grant advisors, all experts in their respective fields and many of them former grantees, The Pollination Project is powered by a wealth of knowledge and experience. Their service is not only precious but also essential, as they bring unique insights and understanding to the application process, ensuring that resources are allocated where they can have the greatest impact.
🎉 Today we celebrate our incredible grant advisors in the HEALTH & WHOLENESS focus area!
🔸 Ben Kilama (Uganda)
🔸 Kosa Jimmy (Uganda)
🔸 Marina Haque (USA)
🔸 John Ebong (Nigeria)
🔸 Nzayisenga Emmanuel (Canada)
🔸 Rodger Mwanza (Zambia)
🔸 Emmanuel Dushimimana (Rwanda)
🔸 Nelly Hellen Onditi (Kenya)
🔸 Daniel Ayodele Femi (Nigeria)
🔸 Christopher Nwafor (South Africa)
Our heartfelt gratitude to these dedicated individuals for their invaluable contributions 🙏
@jim.kosa.5 @manud05 @duemmanuel @nelly.hellen1 @daniel_ayodele_femi
#health #wholeness #grantmaking #grantadvisor #volunteermonth #volunteers #grants #heartivism #volunteersweek #nigeria #southafrica #uganda #rwanda #zambia #canada
🌟 April, National Volunteer Month 🌟 Celebrating our family of Grant Advisors 🌟
+++ ART & CULTURE +++
At The Pollination Project, we believe in the transformative power of artistic and cultural expression to drive positive change in communities worldwide. Behind every successful project and impactful changemaker lies the guidance and expertise of our esteemed grant advisors in the Art & Culture focus area.
Their dedication and insight have been instrumental in helping us support artistic and cultural endeavors across the globe.
Today, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our grant advisors for their invaluable contributions in fostering creativity, diversity, and innovation in the realm of art and culture. Together, we continue to empower changemakers who are shaping a more vibrant and inclusive world through their creative endeavors.
🔸 Liza Villegas (Mexico)
🔸 Rachel Gunther (USA
🔸 Fred Batale (Uganda)
🔸 Ernest Alphonso Olayemise Allen (UK)
🔸 Rachelle Gray (USA)
🔸 Laicey Gibby-Brown (USA)
🔸 Monika Pozek (Spain)
🔸 Yuki Jackson (USA)
🔸 Maulidi Hamisi Winyaiki (Kenya)
@lizadigeorgina
@madkolektiv
@yukijacksonpoet
@kishokayouthorg
@maestro_music_services
@ladygraysgarden
@batalefred
@uckylaicem
🧡 Empowering Change Through Creative Kids Crafts & Art: A Story of Transformation in Gidan-Kwano 🧡
.
The project "Creative Kids Crafts & Art" is an after-school program based in Gidan-Kwano, Nigeria, tailored to foster creativity and instigate change among 50 children aged 5 to 12 from an underprivileged community. Led by seasoned artists and educators, the program offers a platform for creative exploration, hands-on activities, mentorship, and personal growth. The primary objective is to empower children by providing a secure and encouraging environment equipped with all the essential resources.
.
🌟 Thanks to the support from the TPP grant, "Creative Kids Crafts & Art" has made significant strides in its mission. By engaging the children in creative arts exploration, hands-on activities, mentorship, and personal development sessions, the program has facilitated the cultivation of artistic and problem-solving skills among its participants. Furthermore, it has underscored the transformative potential of art as a catalyst for societal change.
.
🌟 The program has not only empowered the children to express themselves innovatively but has also enabled them to participate in community exhibitions, fostering newfound confidence and self-esteem. Additionally, by involving educators from nearby schools, the project has extended its impact, enhancing local teaching capacities.
.
In essence, the TPP grant has been instrumental in enabling "Creative Kids Crafts & Art" to make a positive and enduring impact on the lives of these children, bridging educational disparities and advocating for the transformative power of art within Gidan-Kwano and beyond.
#art #education #creativity #thepowerofart #change #heartivism #seedgrants
🌟 April, National Volunteer Month 🌟 Celebrating our family of Grant Advisors 🌟
EDUCATION & SCHOOL 📚
🎉 Today we celebrate our incredible grant advisors in the Education & School focus area! 📚 With their invaluable guidance, we`ve been able to support students and education initiatives spanning the globe, nurturing innovation and fostering positive change.
👉🏽 Join us in expressing gratitude to these dedicated individuals whose expertise propels our efforts forward and enriches the lives of countless learners worldwide! 🌍🌟
Michael Abdullahi (Nigeria)
Gihana Jackson (Rwanda)
Dan Jetter (USA)
Agbor Solomon Eneke (Cameroon)
Sophia Hanson (USA)
Joseph Obore (Uganda)
Frank Rimler (USA)
Stephanie Scott (Ecuador)
Logan McFadden (USA)
Aaron Kapesa (Malawi)
Shenika Jackson (USA)
Emmanuel Nuvalga (Nigeria)
Benson Onyango (Uganda)
Kennedy Onyango Odera (Kenya)
@abdull_michael @aaronkapesa @enuvalga @jacksongihana @joseph_obore @myfssgs @NationalYouthFoundation @build_repair_grow
#education #schools #grantmaking #grantadvisors #volunteerwork #empoweringstudents
🌱 Empowering Indigenous Women through Regenerative Farming: Give Back to the Source.
Give Back to the Source is a transformative project aimed at supporting regenerative farming practices in Suchitepequez, Guatemala, while establishing a dedicated women`s eco-artisan center. Thanks to a TPP seed grant, they were able to take the first steps towards establishing the center and convened with a group of indigenous women to plan the next phase of their bamboo craft program. They are dedicated to empowering these women economically, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to thrive independently. With a lined-up order of bamboo curtains, the women will receive mentorship to complete their first collective sale, marking a significant step towards sustainable self-sufficiency.
@givebacktothesource
#indigenouswomen #womenempowerment #Guatemala #mentorship #grantmaking #artisan #heartivism
Aanchal Raturi is an animal advocate with a postgraduate diploma in Animal Protection Law from India. At 18, she turned vegan after learning about dairy cruelty. Seeking to broaden her advocacy, she founded Project Re-Learn, conducting workshops in Uttaranchal colleges to sensitize future agriculturists about ethical practices. Her aim is to inspire a shift towards plant-based industries, impacting over 150 students per university through workshops and field trips to animal sanctuaries.
“I applied but I thought it would be hard for someone else to understand my project because it is a very personal vision. But, when I got the approval email, I was very surprised. I was more than happy because I would be able to make it happen. I felt like I was seen.”
She`s our Heartivist of The Week. Read more on our website [link in bio]
#compassion #heartivism #India #animalrights #animalwelfare #vegan #plantbased #veganlifestyle #nocruelty #crueltyfree #heartivism #grants #animaladvocacy
Calling for all the grassroots leaders out there, committed to make our planet a better place! Our Daily Grants applications are open. To apply please visit our website at https://thepollinationproject.org
#grants #seedgrants #grassroots #leaders #animalrights #education #equity #humanrights #environmentalregeneration #health #art culture
🧡
#grants #madagascar #environment #recycling #heartivism
April marks National Volunteer Month, and we`re celebrating our incredible volunteers, whose contributions are the backbone of TPP’s participatory grantmaking. It`s not just the volume of work they help us tackle; it`s the invaluable insights, expertise, and regional knowledge they bring to the table. What makes our volunteers truly extraordinary is that many are past TPP grantees, actively involved in grassroots initiatives within their own communities. Their commitment to local and global betterment is both inspiring and essential to our mission.
🧡
Representing different countries and diverse backgrounds, our volunteers are united by a common goal: serving others. We owe a tremendous THANK YOU to each volunteer for their service, for through their generosity, they not only donate their time but also spread love, hope, and the potential for change.
🧡
To all our volunteers at The Pollination Project, thank you for your time, talents, and tremendous hearts. You are each a vital part of our compassionate community, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership in making the world a brighter place. 🙏
#volunteermonth #volunteer #gratitude #heartivist #heartivism #grantadvisors
Introducing "New Voices, New Horizons" by @ecopracticas (Fernando Jauregui), a groundbreaking project in #Venezuela aimed at amplifying fresh narratives surrounding our collective carbon footprint and its implications for the future, particularly through the eyes of youth.
This initiative is not just about raising awareness; it`s about empowering young voices to shape the discourse and drive action towards a more sustainable world. "New Voices, New Horizons" serves as a catalyst for change, bringing together a team of passionate professionals with diverse backgrounds in sustainable development, journalism, sociology, education, and business.
Thanks to support from a TPP grant, "New Voices, New Horizons" has launched a dynamic media platform, providing a space for young leaders to showcase their initiatives and ideas for sustainable development. Additionally, they have revitalized a 12-year-old educational campaign, focusing on community-based projects led by youth.
Through this initiative, Ecopracticas is not only amplifying the voices of the next generation but also inspiring action and driving meaningful change towards a more sustainable future for all.
Watch this inspiring video to learn more about their vision and impact.
#newvoices #newhorizons #sustainability #youthleadership #youthempowerment #seedgrant #heartivism #environment #goodpractices
Today, April 2nd, marks World Autism Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and promoting acceptance and inclusion of individuals with autism in society.
Over the years, The Pollination Project has played a vital role in funding initiatives focused on creating inclusive environments for individuals with autism, children, teenagers, and young adults. One prevalent issue within the autism community is the lack of opportunities for social interaction in relaxed and enjoyable settings. Many autistic individuals find themselves isolated, with limited chances to engage with peers and the wider community.
Fortunately, projects supported by The Pollination Project have been working tirelessly to change this narrative. By providing funding and support, these initiatives have been able to create safe spaces where autistic individuals can interact with their peers in fun and relaxed environments. These projects not only promote social inclusion but also help to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for those with autism.
However, there is still much work to be done. Despite the efforts of organizations like us, many autistic individuals continue to face barriers to social inclusion. It`s essential that we continue to support initiatives that strive to create a more inclusive society for individuals with autism.
We exist for that, one seed grant at a time.
@aikoandegor
@autism_taafng
@specialshadesofcolor
#autismawareness #acceptanceandinclusion #thriving with autism #embracingdiversity #worldautismday #inclusivecommunities #neurodiversity #fromsurvivingtothriving
MUSIC 🎵 and ENVIRONMENT 🌳
Our Heartivist of the Week is Wilmer Santiago Blanque Belizario. Wilmer`s story unfolds as a captivating journey from Venezuelan refugee to musical innovator in Brazil, illustrating the profound impact of music. Once a part of the National Venezuelan Orchestra, his ten years in Brazil have been dedicated to harmonizing musical education with ecological awareness.
His project is more than a blend of melodies; it`s a call to action, inviting children to become both musicians and environmental advocates. Through this unique fusion and the support of a TPP seed grant, Wilmer aims to cultivate a community bound by resilience, optimism, and a collective vision for a sustainable future.
If you love music and care for our planet, don`t miss our article about Wilmer`s project on our website [link in bio]
#music #impactofmusic #musicandenvironment #calltoaction #saveourplanet #environmentalawareness #seedgrants #supportactivism #supportart #artivism #heartivism #thepollinationproject #brazil #sustainablefuture
Supporting change, one seed grant at a time 🧡
#heartivism #activism #seedgrant #grantmaking #philanthropy #grassroots #positivechange
🌟 Breaking Barriers: Empowering Nepalese Youth for Better SRHR 🌟
The Breaking Barriers project in Nepal is a shining example of dedication to empowering young individuals with comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) education and services. With a focus on addressing societal stigmas and cultural taboos, this initiative is paving the way for a more informed and empowered youth population.
Through a multifaceted approach including workshops, awareness campaigns, and advocacy efforts, Breaking Barriers ensures that accurate information and youth-friendly services are readily accessible. By fostering informed decision-making and advocating for policy reforms, the project is creating a supportive environment where young people can confidently navigate their sexual and reproductive health journey.
Thanks to the support from the Pollination Project grant, Breaking Barriers has successfully raised awareness about SRHR among Nepalese youth. With community engagement at its core, the project has facilitated access to much-needed SRHR services, empowering young individuals to take charge of their health.
Moreover, Breaking Barriers has been instrumental in driving policy reforms aimed at promoting SRHR education and services across Nepal. By breaking down barriers to information and support, this initiative has made significant strides in improving the overall well-being of young people.
With 500 individuals impacted and countless more to benefit in the future, Breaking Barriers serves as an example of the power of grassroots initiatives in creating positive change.
#nepal #SRHR #sexualeducation #SexualandReproductiveHealthRights #youthempowerment #breakingbarriers #education #heartivism #grassroots #seedgrants #grants #thepollinationproject
Monica Wang`s XBVegan Debate Society is organizing a impactful event: a video screening promoting vegan lifestyles. Hosted at a vegan-friendly venue, the evening will welcome 50 attendees with carefully chosen vegan foods.
The event aims to involve community leaders and organizations, addressing the high consumption of animal products in China. A highlight will be a locally made video advocating for veganism and ethical living, tailored for the Chinese community.
This gathering signifies more than just an event; it`s a strategic step towards community-building and change in China. With support from The Pollination Project, the society is set to make a significant impact in 2024 and beyond.
@vegansofshanghai
#vegan #communityengagement #compassion #veganfood #dietchoices #friendsnofood #animalrights #animalrightsactivist #heartivist #XBVegan #veganchina
"Sowing Change: Conversations about Seed Grant Impact," is designed to shed light on the transformative work of our grantees, made possible through the support of TPP`s seed grants.
In our first episode, our Natasha Reilly-Moynihan meets Tracy Glover of @sweetpeepsmicrosanctuary, a haven for chickens rescued from animal agriculture. Tracy shares the transformative journey of these sentient beings from being seen as mere food to recognized as unique individuals with their own stories.
This series aims to showcase the ripple effect of TPP`s seed grants through powerful narratives of change and compassion. Tune in to be inspired and to see the world from a new, hopeful perspective.
Watch it now and let us know iff you like it 🧡👇
Please, meet Maida Šabeta-Lemajić , our Heartivist of the Week!
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a landmark document from 1948, marked a pivotal moment for humanity by acknowledging inherent rights for all individuals, regardless of origin or circumstance. However, while humans have seen progress in safeguarding their rights, the same cannot be said for other inhabitants of the planet. Maida Šabeta-Lemajić, a passionate advocate for animal welfare, is tirelessly working alongside the Global Animal Law GAL Association to extend universal protection to all sentient beings.
Born and raised in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Maida`s journey into animal advocacy began during her college years when she discovered the pervasive issue of animal cruelty. Since then, she has been instrumental in shaping animal protection laws in her country, leading to significant reforms such as banning animals in circuses and curtailing animal experimentation.
Maida`s dedication to animal welfare has taken her to various organizations, including PETA Germany and Cruelty Free International. However, it is her involvement with the Global Animal Law GAL Association that has allowed her to pursue her dream of enacting global animal protection laws. Under the leadership of figures like Dr. h.c. Antoine F. Goetschel, the association is working towards establishing the United Nations Convention on Animal Health and Protection (UNCAHP), a monumental initiative aimed at legally safeguarding animals worldwide.
Maida and her team are spearheading efforts to raise awareness and garner support for the UNCAHP through initiatives like video production and outreach campaigns. With support from organizations like The Pollination Project, they aim to amplify their message and build a global coalition for animal rights.
Read the interview on our website [https://thepollinationproject.org]
@global_animal_law_gal
#Animalrights #animalprotection #animallaw #animalactivism #animalwelfare #AnimalHealth #HumanHealth #EnvironmentalHealth #OneHealth
🌱 Introducing the Healthy Hands Initiative (HHI) 🌱
Born from fieldwork in Jharkhand, #India, the HHI saw a need for sustainable water solutions. With a $1,000 grant from the Pollination Project, HHI is installing Afridev hand pumps in Siyaljori village, ensuring year-round access to clean water. Through community feedback surveys and long-term maintenance plans, HHI aims to break the cycle of poverty and disease, one drop at a time.
@hhinitiative
#WorldWaterDay #waterforall #humanrights
🌍 Gen Z Mental Health: Climate Stories 🌍
In a world where climate change is no longer just a distant threat but a pressing reality, the mental health impacts on young people cannot be overlooked. "Gen Z Mental Health: Climate Stories" is a powerful documentary shedding light on the often-overlooked intersection of climate change and youth mental health.
Featuring Gen Z`ers from diverse backgrounds across the globe, this documentary delves into the profound ways in which climate change affects their mental well-being, life choices, and aspirations for the future. From grappling with eco-anxiety to finding resilience in the face of environmental challenges, these young voices offer poignant insights into the emotional toll of living in a rapidly changing world.
❇️ Thanks to a grant from The Pollination Project, the creators of "Gen Z Mental Health: Climate Stories" were able to organize an impactful in-person community screening event called Playground Earth. With 150 community members in attendance, this event sparked 750 actions for mental health and climate justice, demonstrating the power of collective action.
❇️ But the impact didn`t stop there. With 75 additional community screenings held across 16 countries in collaboration with academic partners, climate organizations, and film partners, the documentary has reached a staggering 110,000 engagements worldwide. Notably, screenings have taken place with esteemed organizations such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization, as well as at COP28, amplifying the conversation around climate mental health within the broader climate movement.
@climatementalhealth
#climatechange #climatementalhealth #mentalhealth #climateaction #climate #heartivism #genZ #future #internationaldayofforests
Imagine a small group of determined individuals, armed with a seed grant and a burning desire to make a difference. With this initial support, they set out to address local needs, whether it`s providing essentials to the less fortunate or offering mentorship to the youth.
Through their actions, they discover that happiness isn`t just about personal gain; it`s found in the joy of helping others. Witnessing the impact of their efforts, they realize the profound sense of purpose that comes from making a positive difference in their community.
In essence, by investing in others, they sow the seeds of happiness not only for those they assist but also for themselves. And with each act of kindness, they create a ripple effect of positivity that strengthens the bonds of their community and brings hope to those who need it most.
Celebrate the International Day of Happiness with us and our AMAZING changemakers ⭐ 🧡
#seedofhappiness #seedgrants #makeadifference #happycommunities #positivedifference #heartivism #changemakers #internationaldayofhappiness