The Now & Next Fund is a peer-led microgrant fund supporting designers, technologists, and creative professionals with $250–$500 for courses, coaching, and other career-building tools.
A SMALL BOOST
A small grant can’t do everything, but it can create space. Sometimes that’s all you need to move an idea forward with focus.
FOCUSED HELP
We look for plans in progress. Whether you're refining a concept, building confidence, or taking a first step, we focus on what's immediately useful.
CO-CREATED
This fund was shaped by people working in design and tech who know how hard it can be to access resources early on.
What We Cover
LEARNING
Professional development certifications, books, and courses in design, tech and strategy
COACHING
Career coaching cohorts, professional resume reviews, mock interviews and paid mentorship
PORTFOLIO DEV
Website hosting, domain names, templates and software tools
NETWORKING
Conference and event tickets, workshop fees, and speaker training
HOW IT WORKS
Tell us what you need, whether it’s a course, coaching session, domain name, or resume review. Our short form asks about your goals, what you’re requesting, and how it will support your growth.
STEP ONE
A small peer review circle reads every application. We look for clearly explained projects with timely goals, potential for broader social impact, a realistic plan, and an appropriate budget for the work proposed
STEP TWO
We award 4–5 microgrants of $250–$500 in each round. Funds are sent directly via Venmo, PayPal, or another method that works for you. Additional microgrants may be awarded if funding allows.
STEP THREE
If you’re selected, you’ll be asked to share a short reflection after using the funds. This helps us understand how the grant supported your work and informs future rounds.
STEP FOUR
About Us
An initiative sponsored by New Pattern Studio, Now & Next Fund emerges from navigating resource gaps in creative work.
As a strategic design consultancy in Brooklyn, we collaborate with teams to shape experiences through human-centered research and systems thinking.
FAQs
The Now & Next Fund supports designers and technologists, especially folks early in their careers, recently laid off, or facing barriers to professional development. You don’t need a degree or a certain job title to apply.
Most microgrants are $250–$500. We aim to award 4–5 grants per round, depending on available funding.
We don’t cover rent, groceries, personal debt, or general living expenses. No weapons, investments, or resale items. Funds must be used for career-related purposes, and we may ask for a short reflection or receipt after.
Yes (for now). Due to payment logistics and legal constraints, we’re currently only accepting applications from people based in the United States.
You’ll get a confirmation email right away. Our review circle reads all applications and selects recipients within 4–6 weeks. If you’re selected, we’ll contact you to confirm payment details.
Yes! We’re building this in community. You can donate, volunteer to review applications, or help with outreach. Contact us if you're interested in volunteering.
A LITTLE SUPPORT
CAN GO A LONG WAY
CAN GO A LONG WAY
Consider applying
for a grant or paying it forward today.