This year the Hellman Collaborative Change Initiative (HCCI) will award up to four grants to support bold cross-sector collaborations in Alameda and San Francisco Counties that are tackling our toughest community challenges.
 
HCCI is eager to invest in collaborations that are:

• Developing concrete solutions to expand equity and opportunity.

• Working collaboratively to tackle critical local issues, including our priority areas of health, education, and equitable opportunities.

• Advancing ambitious goals by engaging across sectors, including the public sector, private sector, and academia.

• Launching and piloting innovative strategies OR building momentum and scaling proven solutions for sustainable systems change.

 
Since 2014, HCCI has granted nearly $17M to collaborations that have made our communities healthier, expanded educational opportunities, and addressed systemic inequities. This work is more urgent than ever. Communities across the Bay Area are navigating the compounding effects of widening disparities since the COVID pandemic alongside a challenging policy environment that has strained the organizations and leaders serving our most vulnerable and marginalized neighbors. The need for sustained, community-rooted solutions has never been greater.

Long-term systems change requires bold community-led solutions backed by meaningful financial and organizational support. In this moment of uncertainty and urgency, the Hellman Foundation remains deeply committed to investing in the people and partnerships closest to the challenges and investing in  inspiring Bay Area leaders.

This year, HCCI will continue to partner with our Community Panel, who review proposals and provide funding recommendations. Read about the 2026 Community Panel here. Selected grantee partners also receive tailored capacity building resources to increase their effectiveness and achieve their bold goals.

Visit the Hellman Foundation website to learn more about the types of grants and eligibility requirements to apply for HCCI. Additionally, there will be an informational webinar on June 9th from 10:00 – 11:00am PT. Register Here.The webinar will provide more information about the application process and offer a Q&A session following the presentation.