The Bayou Collective is a giving circle of Black women and allies who pool their resources to support Black-led organizations in the greater Houston region. We focus on funding operations and well-being so organizations can sustain their work over time.

Anyone can join The Bayou Collective as a member or ally. We offer several membership options to make collective giving accessible.

Learn more on our Membership Page.

Our members are Black women and allies from a range of backgrounds who share a commitment to collective giving and supporting Black-led organizations. Members participate by contributing financially, learning together, and helping guide funding decisions.

Read more about our members here.

We provide flexible funding that supports operations and organizational well-being, including salaries, rent, professional development, or rest for staff. We do not fund program-only requests, capital campaigns, or events.

Learn more about our funding approach.

You can become a member by selecting a membership level and completing the membership process during the open enrollment period. Membership options are designed to make collective giving accessible at different levels of participation.

Apply to become a member here.

Our resources include learning materials related to collective giving, Black philanthropy, and sustaining Black-led organizations. These resources reflect our commitment to shared learning and informed giving.

Access our resources here.

A portion of the funds raised each year is used to support the operating costs of the giving circle, including the website, giving platform, and other administrative expenses.

The specific percentage is determined annually based on the total amount raised and the needs of the circle, and is shared transparently with members.

If you don’t see your question here, we encourage you to reach out directly.

You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email to discuss membership, funding, partnerships, or upcoming opportunities to engage with the Collective.

We aim to respond quickly—usually within two business days.

This funding is not program-restricted. Grant funds may be used for capacity building, professional development, rest, and other organizational needs identified by the organization.

The Bayou Collective currently focuses on supporting small to mid-sized, Black-led organizations based in Houston in one of our key priority areas:

• Women’s health

• Workforce development

• Mental health

• Cultural arts

• Financial literacy

• Youth development
  

To support fairness and transparency, members and applicant organizations disclose any personal, familial, or contractual relationships.

Members with a conflict abstain from discussion and voting related to that organization.

Yes. Full Members may work for or be affiliated with nonprofit organizations; however, those organizations may not apply for funding during that member’s participation as a voting Full Member.