The AIR Opportunity Fund:

Advancing Evidence to Improve Lives

The AIR Opportunity Fund invests in innovative research and bold solutions to expand opportunities for all. Backed by a $225 million commitment from AIR, we work alongside our partners to improve education and workforce development, promote safe and secure neighborhoods, and enhance health outcomes and community well-being. Through collaboration and evidence-based approaches, we strive to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and foster lasting, positive change.

Learn more about the AIR Opportunity Fund.
Explore funding opportunities.
 

Our Work: Strategies for Expanding Opportunity

 

We expand opportunity by supporting innovative and underfunded efforts across our focus areas to improve educational experiences, strengthen public safety and trust, advance economic mobility, and promote better health and well-being for communities facing significant challenges.

Central to our approach is working in partnership with people and organizations who experience these challenges firsthand and those who play key roles in decisionmaking. By incorporating a wide range of perspectives, lived experiences, and expertise, we develop strategies and solutions that reflect the unique needs and strengths of the communities we serve.
 

Sign up to stay informed

Opportunity means each person has a pathway to build the future they want for themselves, their families, and their community.

Building Bridges and Breaking Barriers

Our Programs

Our Approach

Track Our Progress

Creating Connections

Our 2023 annual report features stories, data, and project highlights from our efforts to build bridges toward a more equitable world, where all communities and people can thrive.

By the Numbers

Our growing number of grants and partnerships support a wide variety of projects and geographic scopes.

Figures current as of January 2024

 
Grants Funded
 
Partner Organizations
 
M
Total Dollars Committed
 
States + DC
 
Countries

Learn More

Insights & Evidence

The latest from our experts and community voices

Discover

Funding Opportunities

Learn more and stay informed

Explore

News & Events

Announcements, upcoming events, and recordings

Join

Meet the Team

Rashawn Ray

Rashawn Ray  
Vice President and Executive Director of the AIR Opportunity Fund

Rashawn Ray is an AIR Vice President and Executive Director of the AIR Opportunity Fund. A leading sociologist, Dr. Ray’s research focuses on understanding the systems that create and perpetuate disparities in society. He has published numerous books, articles, and op-eds, and is a frequent commentator in the media. Dr. Ray also testifies at the federal and state levels on topics such as criminal justice reform, public safety, health policy, and economic opportunity.

Managing Director, AIR Opportunity Fund
Program Director, AIR Opportunity Fund
Director of Communications, AIR Opportunity Fund
Senior Program Manager, AIR Opportunity Fund
Senior Program Manager, AIR Opportunity Fund
Senior Program Manager, AIR Opportunity Fund
Senior Program Officer, AIR Opportunity Fund
Project Director, Insight to Action
Grants Administrator, AIR Opportunity Fund