Frequently Asked Questions

An audience in the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice auditorium smiles and laughs during an event. The diverse crowd is seated in rows, with key figures in the foreground.

Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice event FAQs

What types of events are not permitted?

The Center is not available for:

  • Events involving 501(c)(4) activity, direct or grassroots lobbying, political campaigns or electoral or partisan themes
  • Commercial events involving profit-making activities
  • Fundraising events
  • Private or non-charitable events such as weddings or parties

Eligibility & Event Fit

Is my organization eligible to host an event at the Center?

The Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice hosts convenings for grantees and nonprofit organizations whose work aligns with the Center’s purpose and focus on social justice.

Because the Center receives a high volume of requests each year, all submissions are reviewed based on the following factors: 

Alignment

Scheduling feasibility

Operational capacity

Do organizations need to be Ford Foundation grantees?

Organizations do not need to be current grantees to request space. However, priority is given to the foundation’s grantees.

What types of events work best at the Center?

The Center is best suited for gatherings that are focused in scope and designed to take place within a single primary event space.

Events that are well-defined in format, audience, and purpose—and that support dialogue, learning, or collaboration—tend to be the strongest fit.

What is the maximum capacity?

The Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice can accommodate events of varying sizes, with a maximum capacity of approximately 150 attendees, depending on the space and event format.

Large-capacity spaces (50+ attendees) are limited and in high demand. The majority of the Center’s spaces are best suited for small to medium-sized gatherings, typically under 50 attendees, depending on setup.

We encourage applicants to propose realistic attendance numbers that reflect their confirmed audience and program needs, and to consider whether their goals can be achieved through a more focused gathering.

Request Process

How do I request event space?

Please complete the event application form. Submitting an application does not guarantee availability. All requests are reviewed based on alignment, timing, and capacity.

When will I hear back?

Our team will respond within approximately 15 business days.

Due to the volume of requests, we are not able to provide status updates during the review period.

How far in advance can I request an event?

  • Grantees: up to 8 months in advance
  • Nonprofit and mission-aligned organizations: up to 6 months in advance

Why might a request not be approved?

We are not able to accommodate all requests. Decisions are based on:

  • Alignment with the Center’s programmatic work
  • Scheduling availability
  • Operational feasibility

Event Planning & Logistics

What time can events take place?

Standard event hours are:

Monday–Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

A limited number of evening events may be approved. Events must generally conclude by 8:00 p.m. Events are not scheduled on Fridays, weekends, or U.S. federal holidays.

Can events take place in the garden?

The garden is primarily used for evening receptions, which typically begin after 6:00 p.m.

Daytime garden use is limited and not typically accommodated.

Are there fees for using the space?

There is no venue rental fee.

Event hosts are responsible for the costs of services required to support the event, including catering, audiovisual support, additional security, special event services, and other operational needs. For events outside of regular event hours, overtime staffing and building services fees also apply.

How is catering arranged?

The Center works with an exclusive catering partner. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Is audiovisual support available?

Yes. The in-house production team supports in-person and hybrid events.

What event support is provided?

An events team member will serve as your main point of contact.

The Center provides core support, including venue coordination, audiovisual services, catering coordination, security, and janitorial services.

Hosts are responsible for any additional event staffing, including registration and, if needed, guest management staff.

Policies & Additional Information

Can we hold recurring events?

The Center is designed for individual convenings. Recurring meetings or standing reservations are generally not accommodated.

Are performances or live music allowed?

Because the Center operates within an active workplace, events involving large musical ensembles, percussion instruments, or high sound levels may not be feasible during daytime hours.

All performances must be reviewed and approved in advance.

Are the spaces accessible?

Yes. All spaces meet ADA accessibility standards.

For inquiries regarding accommodations, please contact [email protected] at least two weeks before your event.

Where can I find full event policies?

Please refer to the Event Guidelines (PDF).

Who can I contact with additional questions?

Please contact [email protected].