Governance and Democracy Initiative: Governance and Democracy in the Los Angeles Region

About this program

The John Randolph Haynes and Dora Haynes Foundation supports planning and research-to-action grants addressing governance and democracy in the Los Angeles region, including Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange counties. Planning grants provide up to $100,000 for one year, while research-to-action grants offer up to $250,000 annually for up to two years, with potential renewal; proposals focused on county governance reform are especially encouraged. Eligible applicants include public and private universities, university centers, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, and academic partnerships whose work aligns with the Foundation’s mission, with collaboration with community organizations or policymakers encouraged. Planning applicants submit a short proposal, while research-to-action applicants begin with a letter of interest; 2026 deadlines are June 30 and October 6.