Our Goal is to Ensure That Money Moves Faster and With Fewer Obstacles So Organizations Can Focus on Their Critical Work Rather Than Struggling With Bureaucracy: Iara Peng, CEO of JustFund

JustFund is a nonprofit grantmaking platform that simplifies the funding process for organizations advancing social and racial justice. Established in 2017, it introduces a common grant application, enabling applicants to apply to multiple funding opportunities with a single submission. This approach reduces administrative burdens and accelerates the distribution of resources to underfunded communities. JustFund connects funders with grassroots initiatives by prioritizing transparency and efficiency, ensuring that philanthropic efforts reach communities in need fairly and effectively. 

In Conversation with Iara Peng, Founder & CEO of JustFund

What motivated you to create JustFund?

Throughout my career in the nonprofit sector, I observed how traditional grantmaking processes often hinder timely support for organizations, especially those led by marginalized communities. I have seen firsthand how the complexity and inefficiency of grant applications prevent vital resources from reaching the people who need them most. I wanted to develop a solution that streamlines funding and centers equity in philanthropy. Our goal is to ensure that money moves faster and with fewer obstacles so organizations can focus on their critical work rather than struggling with bureaucracy.

How does JustFund address these challenges?

We offer a common grant application platform that allows organizations to apply to multiple funders with one submission. This reduces the time and effort spent on applications, enabling organizations to focus more on their mission-driven work. Our platform also provides funders with a streamlined way to discover and support organizations that align with their values. By making the process more transparent and efficient, we help level the playing field for grassroots initiatives that may otherwise be overlooked by traditional funding mechanisms.

Could you elaborate on the impact JustFund has had since its inception?

Since 2017, we have facilitated the movement of over $320 million to organizations advancing social and racial justice. By simplifying the grantmaking process, we have helped funders connect with grassroots initiatives that might have been overlooked otherwise. Many organizations that previously struggled to secure funding have been able to expand their programs, hire staff, and deepen their community impact. By reducing administrative burdens, we have empowered organizations to focus on real change rather than paperwork.

What principles guide JustFund's operations?

Our work is grounded in equity, transparency, and trust. We believe that those closest to the challenges are best positioned to drive solutions, so we prioritize supporting organizations led by and serving marginalized communities. We also emphasize trust-based philanthropy, where funders place confidence in the organizations they support rather than imposing restrictive application requirements. Our commitment is to shift the power dynamics in philanthropy, ensuring that funding decisions are informed by the needs and expertise of the communities being served.

How does the platform ensure equitable access to funding?

We designed JustFund to be free for applicants, removing financial barriers to accessing funding opportunities. Additionally, our common application reduces administrative burdens, leveling the playing field for organizations with limited resources. Many small organizations, especially those led by people of color, lack the infrastructure or staff to navigate traditional grant applications. By simplifying the process, we ensure that organizations of all sizes have an equal opportunity to secure funding and grow their impact.

What feedback have you received from funders and applicants

Funders appreciate the efficiency and transparency our platform offers, while applicants value the streamlined process that allows them to focus more on their work. Both groups have noted that JustFund fosters stronger connections and trust within the philanthropic community. Many funders have shared that JustFund has helped them discover and support organizations they might not have found through traditional methods. Meanwhile, applicants have expressed relief at not having to navigate multiple, complex application systems just to access funding.

How does JustFund incorporate technology to enhance grantmaking?

We leverage technology to create a user-friendly platform that simplifies the application process, facilitates communication between funders and applicants, and provides data insights to inform equitable grantmaking practices. Our platform uses smart filters and search capabilities that help funders find organizations that align with their values and priorities. We are also working on incorporating automation and data analytics to further improve efficiency and impact measurement.

What challenges have you encountered in building JustFund?

One significant challenge has been shifting traditional philanthropic mindsets towards more equitable and trust-based practices. Many funders are accustomed to traditional models of giving that involve extensive vetting and reporting, which can be barriers to funding equity. It requires ongoing education and demonstrating the effectiveness of our approach. Convincing funders to adopt a more open and accessible approach to grantmaking has been a gradual process, but we have seen growing momentum in this direction.

How have you addressed these challenges?

We have focused on building strong relationships within the philanthropic community, sharing success stories, and providing data that highlights the benefits of our model. This has helped in gradually changing perceptions and encouraging adoption. We also provide resources and workshops to educate funders on the benefits of trust-based philanthropy, helping them see that reducing barriers to funding ultimately leads to greater impact and sustainability for the organizations they support. 

Could you share a success story from an organization that used JustFund?

One organization, focused on community-led environmental justice, secured funding through JustFund that enabled them to expand their programs significantly. They expressed that the streamlined application process allowed them to dedicate more time to their initiatives rather than navigating complex grant applications. With the funding, they were able to increase their outreach, hire additional staff, and implement new environmental programs that directly benefited underserved communities. This is just one example of how simplifying access to funding can lead to measurable and meaningful change.

How does JustFund ensure transparency in its operations?

We maintain open communication with both funders and applicants, provide clear guidelines and criteria, and regularly share impact reports. This fosters trust and accountability within our community. We also encourage funders to be transparent about their giving priorities and decision-making processes, making it easier for organizations to understand how to align their work with available funding opportunities.

What role does trust play in the grantmaking process?

Trust is fundamental. When funders trust that organizations are best suited to address the challenges they aim to solve, and organizations trust that funders are committed to equitable practices, it leads to more effective and impactful philanthropy. Trust-based philanthropy allows organizations to focus on their work rather than spending excessive time proving their worth. When funders provide unrestricted support and minimize reporting requirements, organizations can operate with greater flexibility and sustainability.

How does JustFund support organizations beyond the grant application process?

We offer resources and workshops on capacity building, facilitate networking opportunities, and provide a platform for organizations to share their stories and learn from each other. We believe that securing funding is just one piece of the puzzle—long-term sustainability requires mentorship, collaboration, and shared learning. Our goal is to create a supportive ecosystem where organizations can thrive beyond the initial grant.

What are your future aspirations for JustFund?

We aim to continue expanding our reach, moving more resources to underfunded communities, and advocating for systemic changes in philanthropy to make it more equitable and just. We want to see a future where funding is accessible, responsive, and centered on the needs of the communities being served. By continuing to innovate and educate, we hope to inspire a shift in how philanthropy operates at its core.

Iara Peng, Founder & CEO, JustFund

We believe that those closest to the challenges are best positioned to drive solutions, so we prioritize supporting organizations led by and serving marginalized communities.