Tarab NYC is volunteer-run, and our board currently implements most of our programs. The Tarab NYC Culture Lab is an opportunity for community members to design and carry out projects in partnership with Tarab NYC and in alignment with our mission, opening the door for broader participation, leadership, and creativity.
This is not a grant
Culture Lab projects are community projects produced in partnership with Tarab NYC If selected, you are not “receiving a grant” to do something independently. You are building something with us, for the community.
Culture Lab projects are curated, facilitated, or implemented by community members but are not “owned” by any one person. The projects ultimately live with and for the community, while still clearly recognizing and crediting the people who created and carried the work.
What We Support
We invite individuals or groups to propose a community project that benefits queer and trans SWANA people in NYC. Projects can be cultural, creative, educational, or social, and should build connection, visibility, care, and belonging.
Examples (illustrative):
- Book club centering SWANA queer authors
- Social services resource guide (maintained for a year)
- Film screening or mini-festival
- Drag or dance performance show
- Support circle or workshop series
- Zine, art exhibit, or storytelling project
Funding and budgets
- Total Culture Lab pool: $5,000 for this round.
- Per project support: $250 to $2,500
Funds may cover vendor payments, reimbursements, stipends, space, and materials. No more than 60% of a project’s total budget may go to direct payments to individuals.
Funds are disbursed as costs are incurred (reimbursements, invoices, or direct payments) on a schedule agreed upon between Tarab NYC and the Culture Lab recipient. If you receive payment as an individual, you will need to submit a W-9. (If this is an issue, please indicate as such on your application and we will discuss options.)
Fundraising and Ticketing
If your project includes fundraising, ticket sales, or revenue (like donations at the door), that should happen in collaboration with Tarab NYC. This includes setup, payment processing, and tracking. You may also propose a project with a larger overall budget if you have a plan to raise additional funds beyond the Culture Lab support.
Who can apply
Applicants must:
- Have a history with Tarab NYC, or demonstrated history working with queer and trans SWANA community
- Be based in the greater NYC area
- Apply as an individual or a group (no organizational affiliation required)
Note: Board members may apply, cannot review their own proposals, and are deprioritized in selection.
How to apply
Applications can be submitted via this form here. Applications are due by March 31st.
Your application should include:
- What you want to do, who it’s for, and why it matters
- A budget within $250 to $2,500
- How it advances Tarab NYC’s mission
- A clear plan and timeline
- How you will measure success (feedback, participation, reach, etc.)
You can download a copy of the questions in advance here.
Selection and Expectations
Tarab NYC will review applications (with conflicts removed) and select projects based on feasibility, impact, mission alignment, and ensuring a range of projects. If selected, you’re expected to:
- Deliver the proposed project within the agreed timeline
- Coordinate with Tarab NYC on finances, fundraising, and logistics as needed
- There will be an initial touchpoint with a Tarab NYC board member, plus additional touchpoints depending on project complexity and timeline.
- Share simple documentation (photos, outcomes, attendance, and/or community feedback)
Questions
Email Bashar, CCing coordinator@tarabnyc.org with any questions you may have.