California's Premier Fund for Black Serving Organizations Transitions to Independent Status

The California Black Freedom Fund (CBFF), which was initially a five-year initiative worth $100 million aimed at empowering Black movements and organizations, announced its transition into a permanent, independent entity on June 27. The fund is now renamed the Black Freedom Fund (BFF). In 2022, Executive Director Marc Philpart began reimagining BFF as a statewide fund dedicated to Black communities. Despite this evolution, the organization's mission remains intact: to invest in Black leaders and community-based organizations in California, fostering equitable solutions. Philpart stated, “The clarity that emerged as we approached our objective enabled us to transform into an independent organization.” Since its inception, BFF has granted over $45 million to 205 organizations backed by 83 institutional donors. Most grants—95%—are unrestricted, allowing organizations the freedom to direct resources effectively. Philpart emphasizes the importance of sustaining institutional support as public funding for minority initiatives is dwindling.