Investing in Leaders. Transforming Systems.
Canary Impact invests in leaders with firsthand experience of the legal system, providing the funding, leadership development, and support they need to transform systems.
Why Proximity Matters
Philanthropy has long funded organizations with little connection to the communities they serve. Canary Impact takes a different approach, investing directly in justice-impacted leaders by providing them with the resources, trust, and support to lead.
Direct financial investment to people
Leadership development and mentorship
A national network of justice-impacted leaders
Support for System-Changing Ideas
How We Work
Change starts with people who have lived it. We invest in their leadership and help turn their ideas into lasting impact.
Apply
Justice-impacted leaders bring forward ideas for change.
Invest
Selected participants receive funding and support.
Build
Leaders develop their ideas through mentorship and collaboration.
Impact
Solutions grow into real-world, systemic change in communities.
Programs That Support Leaders at Every Stage
Our programs are designed to meet people where they are, from emerging youth leaders to experienced advocates driving national change.
10-for-10 Program
Supports justice-impacted leaders building solutions across the country. Participants receive a $10,000 investment, mentorship, and access to a national network of changemakers working to create lasting impact.
NextWave Leadership Program
Develops young leaders ages 18–25 with lived experience in the justice system. Through funding, leadership development, and cohort-based support, participants gain the tools and confidence to advance their ideas and advocacy.
NYC FutureForward
A New York City-based leadership program for justice-impacted young adults ages 18–25. Participants receive funding, mentorship, and hands-on leadership training while building solutions that strengthen their communities.
Canary Impact has the ability to connect to a person’s passion in a way that other foundations or fellowships struggle with.
Khalil Cumberbatch
2023 Canary Impact Program Participant
Changing Who Gets Funded Changes What Gets Built
The proof is in the work. See what Canary Impact’s investments have made possible.
- Justice-impacted leaders funded across the country
- Bold programs reshaping public safety and reentry
- A growing network of changemakers driving reform
Be Part of the Work
Whether you’re looking to apply, partner, or support, there are multiple ways to get involved with Canary Impact.
Apply To Our Programs
For justice-impacted people who are ready to lead change in their communities and beyond through funding, mentorship, and leadership development:
Partner With Us
For organizations, funders, and community leaders looking to support justice-impacted people and invest in lasting systems change:
Donate to Canary Impact
Help provide direct funding, mentorship, and opportunities for the next generation of justice-impacted leaders creating meaningful change: