The Etolia Fund invests in leadership infrastructure across the American South and Appalachia, with a focus on preparing the next generation of equity-centered practitioners in philanthropy, social impact, and nonprofit strategy.
Our core investments support a growing national fellowship model, led by KM Strategies Group in partnership with several leading academic institutions. Through this program, we fund paid fellowships, mentorship, training, and direct project experience for graduate students from underrepresented regions and backgrounds, ensuring they have real access to the networks, skills, and opportunities that shape decision-making in the social sector.
These investments reflect our belief that talent is everywhere, but access is not. We aim to help change who gets to build, influence, and sustain the institutions that define the public good.
In addition to our fellowship and leadership investments, we continue to provide general operating support to select 501(c)(3) organizations whose work aligns with our values. These grants are unrestricted, trust-based, and designed to reduce the administrative burden on grantees while increasing their long-term sustainability.
We prioritize support for:
Community-based leadership development and mentorship programs
Narrative and cultural strategy led by Southern and Appalachian organizations focused on civil and human rights
Civic infrastructure and democratic participation initiatives
Youth-driven organizing and literacy programs
Community-rooted journalism and communications work
Across all of our funding—whether through fellowships or nonprofit support—we look for proximity, accountability, and long-term vision. Our grantees are chosen for their ability to build what communities need, and to lead with clarity, courage, and care.
We welcome opportunities to collaborate with institutions, funders, and aligned partners who are committed to investing in a sector that reflects the equity it claims to serve.
