NBA Foundation Announces Second Grant to Boost Career Opportunities, Economic Empowerment in Black Communities

The National Basketball Association announced a second set of grants to social organizations Monday to help drive economic opportunities in the Black community.

As part of its $300 million commitment to assist underserved communities, more than $3 million will be distributed in this round of grants. The money will support firms focused on Black employment and assist in the career advancements of Black people.

“Given the resources and incredible platform of the NBA, we have the power to ideate, implement and support substantive policies that reflect the core principles of equality and justice we embrace,” said NBPA Executive Director Michele Roberts. “This Foundation will provide a framework for us to stay committed and accountable to these principles.”

The NBA and the Player’s Association announced the initiative last year in the aftermath of the deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. All 30 NBA franchises will commit $30 million over the next decade to improve economic and income inequality in their communities as part of the initiative.

The organizations that have been tapped for this round of funding include New Heights Youth, City Year, Road to Hire, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, and CodeCrew.

“The grants will enhance and build upon the important work of these national and local organizations that align with the NBA Foundation’s mission to provide skills training, mentorship, coaching and pipeline development for high school, college-aged, job-ready and mid-career individuals in Black communities across the United States and Canada,” the league’s release said.

The league made its first donations late last year to assist in educational and employment opportunities. The Marcus Graham Project, Operation DREAM, and Management Leadership for Tomorrow were chosen by the NBA to receive the funds.

Individual NBA players have also begun to contribute money and resources to Black causes. NBA point guard Chris Paul has started a yearly HBCU event for HBCU basketball. Additionally, the league celebrated HBCU schools as part of its All-Star weekend in March.