The Kenneth D. Wiggins G.NIUS Grant aims to assist Black creative and/or tech-focused entrepreneurs seeking to positively impact Black communities by providing funding to further their products, services, or solutions. One $500 micro-grant is awarded annually to qualified recipients across the United States.
The Kenneth D. Wiggins G.NIUS Grant was created to honor and uplift Kenneth’s life, legacy, and vision. The grant is committed to furthering Kenneth’s passion for empowering Black communities, with a specific focus on marginalized groups therewithin. The G.NIUS Grant is open to Black entrepreneurs with a creative or technology focus and products or services that serve as or provide resources to improve Black life and communities.
In line with Kenneth’s views regarding education, eligibility for the grant does not require formal education.
This grant is a one-time award. Previous grant recipients are not eligible to re-apply. Members of the MPWR Foundation, the Viribus Foundation, and the grant selection committee, nor members of their immediate family are eligible to apply for the grant. Products or services in the gambling, adult entertainment, pyramid or multi-level marketing, or weapons and ammunition manufacturing spaces are ineligible for submission.
The grant may be used toward a start-up business or an existing business. The grant cannot be used for personal expenses, personal debt, or credit card debt.
Applicants found using or espousing anti-Black, racist, sexist, misogynistic, homophobic, transphobic, or any other hate speech, language, or ideology will be immediately disqualified.
Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
Founder,
The Fancy Friend
Founder,
The Viribus Foundation
Founder + Creative Director,
West 7th Design Studio and The MPWR Foundation
Owner,
Artiste House
Founder + Chef,
Veganer's Luck
Funding for the Kenneth D. Wiggins G.NIUS Grant is managed by our non-profit partner, the Viribus Foundation. The Viribus Foundation raises funds and awareness for mental health in the Black community. The Viribus Foundation is exempt from federal income taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Your donations are tax-deductible to the full extent provided by law. The Viribus Foundation’s federal tax identification number is 84-4628098. Please consult your financial planner or tax adviser to determine the exact tax advantages of any donation you are considering. Annual donation statements for all tax-deductible donations can be found in your Donor Dashboard.
