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IMA Prism Initiative · 2028

Fundingthe floor.

Direct support for Ballroom-rooted work and formal recognition for leaders shaping the culture across generations.

$2,000Total award pool
$1,000Seed grant
02Honor recipients

01 / Seed Grant

$1,000 unrestricted award

Root & RiseSeed Grant.

Micro-capital for an artist, house elder, collective, organizer, or early-stage initiative doing essential work through Vogue, health advocacy, direct care, or community infrastructure.

Who may apply

  • Individuals, houses, collectives, and emerging initiatives
  • Applicants age 18 or older
  • Active members of—or direct service to—Ballroom or LGBTQIA+ communities

Eligible uses

  • Events and community programs
  • Health and wellness support
  • Arts and creative production
  • Advocacy and education
  • Organizational development
  • Emergency community care

Deadline: October 31, 2027

02 / Review

How applicationsare assessed.

30%

Rootedness

Connection to Ballroom and LGBTQIA+ community life.

25%

Impact & Vision

A clear purpose and meaningful community benefit.

20%

Feasibility

A realistic plan for using the award.

15%

Urgency & Need

How strongly the funding would move the work forward.

10%

Equity

Centering those most affected, including trans and gender-nonconforming people of color.

03 / Honors

Icon & ImpactHonors.

Two $500 ceremonial awards recognizing established legacy and emerging leadership.

Track 01 · $500

The Blueprint Honoree

For a pioneer whose dedication to Ballroom culture and LGBTQIA+ advocacy has created lasting impact.

  • Age 35 or older
  • 10 or more years of active contribution
  • Recognized as a Legend, Icon, Elder, Statement, or respected community builder
Track 02 · $500

The New Wave Honoree

For an emerging force whose creativity, leadership, and commitment are reshaping the culture.

  • Age 18–34
  • At least one year of active contribution
  • Demonstrated leadership through a house, creative practice, organizing effort, or cultural movement

04 / Process

Apply. Review.Recognize.

  1. 01Submit

    Complete the application or nomination and attach the requested support materials.

  2. 02Committee review

    Submissions are evaluated using the published eligibility and scoring criteria.

  3. 03Notification

    Selected recipients are contacted and prepared for recognition during the Heritage Ball.

Stay Informed

Funding futures.Preserving legacy.

Join the guest list for application dates, recipient announcements, and Heritage Ball updates.