The 1954 Project Luminary Award
The CAFE Group’s 1954 Project is advancing education equity by investing in bold, imagination-fueled, and high-impact leaders committed to addressing systemic barriers and creating sustainable change for Black students and in Black communities.
The Luminary Program
The initiative is designed for leaders with a proven track record of success in education and the vision to create even greater impact.
Luminaries join a powerful community of innovators, change-makers, and visionaries driving systemic progress to support students and communities across the U.S.
1954 Project Network Benefits
Catalytic Capital
Each Luminary receives a transformational unrestricted $1 million grant to deepen their organization's work.
National Visibility
Access to a vast network of philanthropists, funders, and thought leaders in education and other sectors.
Ongoing Support
A three-year cohort journey that includes mentorship, leadership development, and strategic advisory to invest in their long-term success.
How To Apply
The open application eligibility period for the 2025 1954 Project Luminary Award is now closed. Watch this space for 2026 application cycle updates.
Applicants are visionary leaders with a proven ability to disrupt the status quo in education who can demonstrate proximity, lived expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing equity for Black students and communities most impacted by systemic inequities in education.
Luminaries:
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Have a proven track record in the education sector.
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Are committed to building sustainable solutions in our impact areas.
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Are ready to scale their impact and engage with a community of like-minded leaders.
Our Impact Areas
Luminaries see the potential for transformation and are willing to lead the charge. These established nonprofit leaders’ organizations operate in one of our impact areas:
Innovation in Teaching and Learning
Create more effective, equitable, and culturally affirming education models that center Black students and ultimately serve all students.
Diversity in Education
Increase the number of Black educators and leaders through innovative initiatives and programs.
Pathways to Economic Mobility
Strengthen pathways from education to career to increase Black students' and families' economic mobility.
The Application Cycle Process:
Step One
Eligibility Form
Important: All potential applicants complete the Eligibility Form to be invited to submit a full application.
Step Two
Eligible Applicants Submit Round One
Applicants who receive eligibility approval will be invited to submit a full application.
Please note: The 2025 Application is Now Closed.
Honoring Legacy, Redefining Philanthropy
With humility and gratitude, The 1954 Project honors the legacy of our ancestors, the strides we've made, and the progress yet to come. Our work builds on the foundation of the past while radically redesigning how philanthropy connects with Black leaders in education. By connecting the deep reservoir of talent in the Black community with transformational resources, we aim to create a future where all students thrive.
Our Selection Criteria
We seek out extraordinary applicants who embody our values and vision across three categories:
We look for leaders whose influence and vision contribute to the collective well-being and advancement of the Black community. These leaders:
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Are Visionary: They demonstrate a strategic and pragmatic mindset, articulating a transformative vision for significant, positive change.
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Show Demonstrated Commitment: They embody steadfast dedication to your cause, inspiring and influencing others, and galvanizing community involvement.
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Are Adaptive: They assertively tackle challenges, turning setbacks into opportunities for innovation, while maintaining humility and thoughtfulness in problem-solving.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
The journey to becoming a 1954 Luminary is one of collaboration, growth, and lasting change. If you want to learn more or apply in a future cycle, join us to reshape the future of education.