Birds of Paradise is expanding its mission to make Magic: The Gathering more welcoming and inclusive by launching a new grant program for marginalized members of the community.

Applications are now open through August 8, offering financial support to players, content creators, writers, artists, tournament competitors, and community organizers who are already making a positive impact on the game.

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Birds of Paradise President Jane, who shared the organization's excitement about this next chapter. Following its recent recognition as an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Birds of Paradise is now able to expand its community support immensely with this distinction.

All donations to BOP! are now fully tax deductible.

According to the organization, the grants are intended to recognize and support the people who help make the Magic: The Gathering community stronger through their creativity, leadership, and advocacy. Whether that's producing content, organizing local events, competing on the highest stages, or creating welcoming spaces for others, the goal is to invest directly in the people doing that work.

Beyond its grant program, Birds of Paradise is best known for creating safe and inclusive spaces at events, look for the purple tables at your next convention. The organization also promotes underrepresented voices through mentorship, networking opportunities, community events, and collaborative projects designed to increase representation throughout the Magic community.

Grant Information

Applications for the current grant cycle are open now and will close on August 8. Community members who would like to support future grants can also make a donation. With its new nonprofit status, eligible donations are now tax deductible, helping Birds of Paradise continue its work of building a more welcoming future for Magic: The Gathering.

• Applications: Open now through August 8
• Apply: BirdsofMTG.com
• Who should apply: Marginalized players, artists, writers, content creators, tournament competitors, and community organizers in the Magic: The Gathering community
• Support the program: Donations are accepted through Paypal and are now tax deductible through the organization's 501(c)(3) status

What This Grant is For

The BOP Storm Crow Grant is available for four(4) recipients for this grant cycle.

These funds are intended to help artists, alterists, creators, community organizers, pro players, and writers further their career or gain footing in the MTG community. Ideally, these funds will be used to support travel, content creation, or community organizing related to Magic.

These grants are awarded on a lottery basis. Applicants must be a member of a marginalized group on the basis of race, ethnicity, sex, gender, orientation, or ability. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Awards can be distributed worldwide, however, recipients outside of the U.S. may face additional tax requirements.

As an added bonus, recipients will have the opportunity to network with BOP! online or in person at a convention, collaborate on content, or get involved with the group, but these are not required to receive the grant.