Groundswell Fund

Menu

Statement on Black Trans Fund Transition

|

Funding trans-led organizations and supporting grassroots leaders who create transformative change and build resilience in the face of systemic oppression is core to Groundwell’s values and identity.

It is with deep sadness that we share this announcement – Groundswell Fund and BTF will conclude their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on December 31, 2024 at the request of BTF leadership, marking a critical step in BTF’s transition to independence. 

Launched in 2020 as an incubated project at Groundswell Fund, the Black Trans Fund (BTF) was designed with a 5-year plan to become an independent entity. Over the past five years, BTF has supported 70 Black trans-led organizations, uplifting joy, resilience, and transformative work in arts, culture, healing, and community building. The fund has reshaped cultural narratives surrounding Black trans communities, emphasizing thriving and possibility over narratives of despair.

While Groundswell and BTF share a deep commitment to Black trans leadership, differences in alignment and approaches created challenges that ultimately led to this difficult decision. Like any relationship, there were pain points, and we are parting ways to honor the health and sustainability of both parties. Ending the MOU allows BTF to transition to a new structure and fiscal sponsor, positioning it for future growth and long-term success.

Groundswell Fund is deeply invested in the long-term success of Black Trans Fund and its mission to promote a world where Black trans joy, culture, and people thrive. We remain steadfast in our dedication to funding and uplifting trans-led and Black trans-led organizations through our broader grantmaking and strategic programs.

Commitment During the Transition

Groundswell will continue to center BTF grantees and support BTF during this transition by:

  • Providing Stability: We are committed to ensuring stability and care for BTF staff throughout this transition. Specific details are in review by former staff, but our focus remains on providing meaningful support to BTF staff as BTF transitions into its next phase.
  • Stewarding Funds: Grants and donations to Groundswell Fund that have been designated to BTF have been meticulously accounted for. Pending approval from BTF donors and funders, Groundswell will hold the grants and donations until a new fiscal sponsor is identified. This ensures BTF can focus on securing a sustainable future while reassuring stakeholders that resources will be responsibly managed and transferred.
  • Engaging Stakeholders: Groundswell is actively consulting with BTF donors, funders, and stakeholders to determine next steps that best serve grantees and align with the fund’s mission.

We acknowledge that this transition impacts Groundswell’s donors and grantees which were funded through Black Trans Fund, and are committed to transparency throughout this process. Given the complexities of this transition, there are still some details to be finalized, but we will continue communicating updates as they become available.

We also understand and acknowledge that this transition impacts the work of Groundswell’s grantees funded through Black Trans Funds during a particularly charged time. Please know that we are committed to open communication and transparency, uplifting Black trans communities with care and intention.

Groundswell Fund is proud of our five-year partnership with BTF and the collective impact we have made together. Since our inception, Groundswell has fought for trans liberation, and that commitment remains unwavering. We are dedicated to ensuring that BTF’s legacy and leadership thrive as it enters its next chapter. Together, we will continue advancing justice and liberation for trans and gender-expansive communities everywhere.