Q&A About The Airbnb Community Fund

As the world’s largest online marketplace for vacation rentals, AirBnb is no stranger to giving back to the community. Recently, they launched the AirBnb Community Fund, which allows nonprofit organizations to receive funding from AirBnb. 

Throughout this article, we will answer some of the most common FAQs about how community funding works and how your nonprofit can use it.

What Is the Airbnb Community Fund?

The Airbnb Community Fund is a program that provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that are working hard to make a positive, lasting impact in their communities. The hope of the fund is that communities around the world will be enriched through the selected organizations and that the world as a whole can be made a better place.

Nonprofit organizations who are interested in applying for funding can find program details on Airbnb’s website.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for Funding From the Airbnb Community Fund?

Any nonprofit organizations that are working to make a positive impact on their communities are eligible to apply for funding from the Airbnb Community Fund. This includes organizations that focus on arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services, or social justice.

Some of the organizations that received funding in the past are:

• Her Economic Rights and Autonomy (HERA) – helping to prevent human trafficking via entrepreneurship.
• Affordable Homeownership Foundation inc – Helping people with disabilities have affordable housing.
• The Freedom Story – Helping to prevent child trafficking in northern Thailand through education.
• Mission Bambini – Providing emergency relief during the Covid pandemic in southern Asia.
• Mann Deshi Foundation – Helping rural women in India learn essential business skills.

If you would like to read more on any of the past grant recipients you can read about their organizations and missions here.

How Much Money Is Available Through the Airbnb Community Fund?

The Airbnb Community Fund plans to give grants totaling $100 million USD to nonprofit organizations over 10 years. It is hoped that these grants will benefit the communities where Airbnb Hosts live and will also help communities that have faced extreme hardship.

What Are the Selection Criteria for Funding From the Airbnb Community Fund?

The selection criteria for funding from the Airbnb Community Fund are based on the organization’s impact on its community. AirBnb had their Host Advisory Board partner with GlobalGiving to find the organizations they felt met the fund’s vision. On top of past impact, they also take a closer look at the organization’s ability to execute their project. They must also demonstrate how they will use the Airbnb Community Fund grant to further their work.

Once a master list was created, Host Clubs and Airbnb community leaders voted for who they thought would have the biggest impact.

Is There a Deadline to Apply for Funding From the Airbnb Community Fund?

The deadline to apply for funding from the Airbnb Community Fund is September 1st, though the date can vary from year to year. 

Can I Get a Loan to Start or Grow My Airbnb Business Through the Fund?

The community fund won’t be a viable way to start or grow an Airbnb business. However, there are a number of different loan options available for businesses, including loans specifically for Airbnb businesses. Speak with your bank or a lending specialist to find out what options are available to you.

How Can I Learn More About the Airbnb Community Fund?

To learn more about the Airbnb Community Fund, visit Airbnb’s website. You can also read about past Airbnb Community Fund grant recipients on their website.

As a nonprofit organization, one of your top priorities is likely finding ways to fund the work your organization puts into the community. If you’re looking for an opportunity to apply for funding, consider Airbnb’s Community Fund.