grants
Pre-Application Technical Assistance
BCYF is excited to announce the launch of its FY26 Pre-Application Technical Assistance (PATA) program, designed to empower and equip organizations interested in applying for funding through the Grassroots Fund or the Community Accountable Fund.
Our goal is to ensure that every applicant—especially those rooted in Baltimore’s communities—has access to the knowledge, tools, and support needed to submit a strong and competitive application. Through this year’s PATA offerings, organizations will gain direct access to expert-led workshops, one-on-one coaching, and hands-on launchpad sessions that build confidence and capacity.
APPLICATION OPENS JANUARY 8TH
BCYF looks forward to partnering with you to continue advancing youth-centered, community-driven change across Baltimore!
Application Closes: February 13, 2026
FY26 Pre-Application Technical Assistance Offerings
BCYF is hosting several Pre-Application Technical Assistance sessions to support applicants through the application process.
For webinars, registrants will receive a Zoom Link via email. If you do not receive the link within 48 hours of registering, please email tdouglas@bcyfund.org for support.
Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Facilitators: Teneisha Douglas and Dana Parsons
Overview: This event is open to any Baltimore City-based organization interested in applying for the Grassroots Fund or Community Accountable Fund. We will share the Rocket Resource Hub and important dates for the 2026 grant cycle. We will also welcome current grantees for a Grantee Panel to share their experiences with BCYF and the impact funding has had on their programs. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask the panelists questions.
Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Facilitators: Josh Bailey
Overview: Are you interested in applying for the BCYF Grassroots Fund or the Community Accountable Organization Fund? Join us for a virtual Application Information Session! We’ll review eligibility requirements, the application timeline, application questions, and avenues of support during the application process. There will also be a Q&A section to help you set up for success in the application process. You’ll leave the session with a clear picture of next steps.
Application Opens: January 8, 2026
Date: Thursday, January 8, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Facilitators: Megan Bautista
Overview: Join us for an information webinar focused on budgeting and documentation for BCYF’s GRF/CAF grant applications. We’ll guide you through crafting a detailed budget narrative, how to effectively justify each line item in your budget, and how to make a strong case for your program through data. The BCYF finance team will also be on hand to address any specific budgeting questions you may have. Take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your understanding and hone your approach to grant budgeting.
Date: Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Facilitators: Dana P. & The Leadership Institute for Compassionate Changemaking
Overview: Join us for a virtual session where we’ll deep dive into the Mission, Vision, and Values sections of the BCYF Grassroots Fund and the Community Accountable Organization Fund applications! In this experiential session, we’ll review how the Mission, Vision, and Values of your organization can best be communicated in the BCYF application process, and we’ll work together to reflect on and elevate your organization’s Mission, Vision, and Values in alignment with BCYF’s priority areas for funding. By the end of the session, you’ll understand how to align the Mission, Vision, and Values sections of the application with the rubric, as well as how to reach out for further support.
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Impact Hub; 10 East North Avenue; Baltimore, MD 21202
Facilitators: PATA Team
Overview: This session will provide attendees with internet access and application development support from one of our team members.
During this session, you may receive support with the following:
- Application Review
- Narrative Reporting
- Mission, Vision, and Values
- Metrics/Outcomes
- …and so much more!
Lunch will be provided. Childcare and transportation assistance may be available upon request.
Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Facilitators: Dana P. & The Leadership Institute for Compassionate Changemaking
Overview: Join us for a virtual session where we’ll deep dive into the Scope of Work and Outcomes sections of the BCYF Grassroots Fund and the Community Accountable Organization Fund applications! In this experiential session, we’ll review how the Scope of Work and Outcomes within your program can best be communicated in the BCYF application process, and we’ll work together to reflect on and elevate your program’s Scope of Work and Outcomes in alignment with success measures, feasibility, and BCYF’s priority areas for funding. By the end of the session, you’ll understand how to align the Scope of Work and Outcomes sections of the application with the rubric, as well as how to reach out for further support.
Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Co-Balt Workspace: 1014 W 36th Street; Baltimore, MD 21211
Facilitators: PATA Team
Overview: This session will provide attendees with internet access and application development support from one of our team members.
During this session, you may receive support with the following:
- Application Review
- Grant Writing
- Narrative Reporting
- Mission, Vision, and Values
- Metrics/Outcomes
- …and so much more!
Lunch will be provided. Childcare and transportation assistance may be available upon request.
Application Closes: February 13, 2026 (at 11:59 p.m.)
2026 Rocket Resource Hub
The 2026 Rocket Resource Hub is a tool for applicants as they prepare their applications. Within the Hub, you will find the following:
- Required Documentation Resources
- Budget Resources
- 1×1 Scheduling
- Session Registration
- Reporting Requirements for BCYF Grantees
1:1 Application Support
We are offering 1:1 Application Support for anyone interested in receiving more tailored support with their application. Please review the areas of expertise for each of our Technical Assistance providers and use the calendar links below to schedule. In-person and virtual options are available.
Important reminder: If you have technical questions about your application submission, please email them to gmta@bcyfund.org by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, to ensure our team has sufficient time to answer your questions before the application deadline. We will do our best to respond as quickly as possible. However, due to the high volume of submissions on the deadline, we cannot guarantee an immediate response. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Questions?
Please send all questions about the application or application process to gmta@bcyfund.org.
If you have technical questions about your application submission, you may email them to gmta@bcyfund.org up until 11:59 P.M. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, to ensure that our team has the appropriate time to answer your questions before the application deadline. We will do our best to respond as quickly as possible. However, due to the high volume of submissions on the deadline, we cannot guarantee an immediate response. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Our PATA Team
Josh Bailey
Josh is a career educator and nonprofit leader. His expertise is in crafting, setting, and inspiring action towards a compelling mission and vision. Josh works to identify and center core values in the creation of programs and grants to ensure alignment. His previous roles include serving as a teacher, principal, district office leader, and nonprofit executive. Josh has deep experience in SMART goals, community engagement, and partnership formation.
Megan Bautista
Megan Bautista is a facilitator and capacity builder who brings both technical expertise and deep care to their role as a BCYF Technical Assistance Provider. Now in their second BCYF funding cycle, Megan has supported a wide range of Baltimore-based youth-serving and grassroots organizations with pre-application technical assistance—helping them strengthen budget narratives, align budgets with outcomes and success metrics, and tell their organizational stories with authenticity and confidence. Megan’s approach centers on reflection and empowerment. They combine practical support with emotional encouragement, creating spaces where community leaders feel affirmed, inspired, and equipped to grow. Their sessions invite participants to bring their full selves—to lead, learn, and create from a place of cultural pride and abundance. Outside of their work with BCYF, Megan is the Senior Program Manager for Tax Education and Tax Partnerships at the non-profit CASH Campaign of Maryland, where they work to raise public awareness of tax credits and provide financial education related to taxes. Megan also leads CASH’s tax-time financial capability program, connecting CASH’s free tax preparation clients with resources, support, and services that enhance their financial stability and assist them in achieving financial goals. Megan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Africana Studies from Oberlin College, as well as a Financial Social Work Certificate from the University of Maryland School of Social Work.
Dana Parsons
Dana (she/her) has worked with and for youth-centered and educational nonprofits for 20 years, especially on their journey to receiving funding. Dana’s experience with government, philanthropy, and education have contributed to a deep understanding of grant application processes. As an educator, Dana centers her process in the successes of the applicant organization and approaches all exchange valuing warmth and connection. Currently, Dana is the founder and Principal Creative for The Leadership Institute for Compassionate Changemaking. Based in Maryland, Dana (M.A. and Advanced Professional Certificate) has been an educator, facilitator, administrator, and leader for 20 years in multiple fields and sectors including education, public service, nonprofits, private, corporate and government agencies. She has worked with over 1,500 organizations, agencies, and districts on local, national, and global levels to elevate their practices, engagement, programming and impact to make the world a better place to live, love, and be.
Dana Carr
Dana is the Founder of The Creative Impact Group. Dana spent over 9 years as Executive Director of Leaders of Tomorrow Youth Center, a youth nonprofit serving the DMV. She wore many hats in this role, one of which was writing/cowriting over 50 grants, resulting in over a million dollars of funding. Dana’s experience as both educator and actress allow her to support organizations in a unique and dynamic way, conveying their impact through a storytelling lens. Dana has served as an educator, administrator, mentor, curriculum writer and coach, with more than 20 years of experience. She holds degrees from the University of Maryland, and New York University, with certifications in arts integration,trauma informed practices and organizational development. Her approach is passionate, relatable and personalized; she is committed to being part of work that seeks to amplify and improve the quality of life for young people.
Genna Styles-Lyas
Genna (she/her) brings extensive experience in community engagement and equity within the arts. With over fifteen years as a Teaching Artist, administrator, and facilitator, she has honed effective engagement strategies and educational program management. Genna has worked with both large and small non-profits, implementing arts standards and providing equity-focused guidance. Her experience with a national organization has given her valuable insights into public policy and advocacy for arts and culture. Currently, as the Director of Local Arts Agencies Community Engagement and Equity in Research, Genna is dedicated to fostering inclusive environments and supporting applicants through personalized, one-on-one application support. She has engaged with 373 communities across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Genna holds a Doctorate in Education from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Northcentral University, and a BFA in Acting from Point Park University.
BCYF Announces 2024 Grassroots Fund
We are excited to announce that a new call for grant applications for the Grassroots Fund is coming soon.
What Does It Mean To Be A BCYF Community Reviewer?
Although our staff members bring deep knowledge and expertise to the review process, we feel strongly that members of the community also have a say in how funds are put back into the community.
Apply to be a Grant Reviewer
BCYF is seeking grant review panel members for the Spring 2023 Grant Cycle! Apply to become a grant reviewer for the Grassroots Fund!
