Humanity AI has launched a $10 million open call for proposals supporting community-led efforts to shape how artificial intelligence is built, governed and used.
Open Call for Proposals: Communities Leading on AI
The opportunity is designed for communities that are not simply being consulted about AI, but are setting the agenda. Humanity AI is particularly interested in work led by students, educators, workers, artists, scholars and others whose communities are directly affected by AI.
Humanity AI expects to award grants ranging from $75,000 to $1 million, with grant periods of up to three years.
Proposals must address at least one of three issue areas:
- Education — Shaping AI around the interests of students, educators and communities.
- Labor and economy — Ensuring AI enhances rather than replaces workers and contributes to an economy in which people can thrive.
- Humanities, arts and culture — Supporting human creativity and understanding while protecting the work of artists and creators.
Projects may focus on shaping how AI is governed and used, building AI on community terms, or challenging AI that does not serve communities. Projects do not have to use AI.
Humanity AI welcomes applications from U.S.-based organizations, collaborations and individuals proposing work focused on U.S.-based communities.
Lead organizations must have 501(c)(3) status. Individuals and informal groups may apply through a U.S.-based fiscal sponsor or as part of a collaboration with an eligible lead organization. Universities and their centers, departments and programs may submit separate applications when proposals are distinct.
The initial application is due October 21, 2026, at 7:59 p.m. ET. Finalists will be invited to submit additional materials, and final awards are expected to be announced in early spring 2027.