How to Apply for a PBIF Grant
The Pro Bono Innovation Fund (PBIF) provides grants to LSC grantees for civil legal aid projects that support new, robust pro bono partnerships through collaboration, innovation, and replication of effective practices.
Current Funding Cycle Announcements
Current Funding Cycle Announcements
The PBIF 2026 Funding Cycle has opened. Notifications of Pre-Application decisions were sent in early March 2026. Those invited to submit Full Applications must submit their Full Application by May 8, 2026. All FY26 grantees will be subject to the 2026 Special Grant Terms and Conditions.
Questions about the FY26 Funding Cycle can be directed to probonoinnovation@lsc.gov.
Application Overview
The PBIF Funding Cycle is a two-phase process. Applicants must first submit a Pre-Application to LSC in mid-January to be considered for a PBIF Grant. After a review by LSC staff, LSC's President makes the final decision to invite select applicants to submit a Full Application. Applicants will be notified of invitations to submit a Full Application by early to mid-March, and Full Applications are due to LSC in early May. Each Full Application will undergo rigorous review by LSC staff and subject matter experts. LSC's President makes the final decision on PBIF grant awards.
The PBIF Team has prepared Full Application tools to assist applicants in their submissions for the 2026 Funding Cycle.
FY26 Full Application Resources
2026 Application Timeline
| Date | Event |
| 11/12/2025 | Notice of Funding Cycle Opening Sent to LSC Executive Directors |
| 1/15/2026 | Pre-Application Due Date |
| 3/13/26 | Invitations to Submit Full Applications |
| 3/26/26 | Full Application Group Q&A |
| 4/6/26 | Full Application Group Q&A - Project Incubation Applicants Only |
| 4/16/26 | Full Application Group Q&A - Project and Sustainability Applicants Only |
| 5/8/2026 | Full Application Due Date |
Should you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to the PBIF Team.