Grant Funding for Autism Services
NEXT for AUTISM is one of the largest funders of services for autistic adults nationwide. NEXT grants support innovative programs in four key areas: home, work, social, and health. Through our investment in innovation and scaling what works, NEXT is transforming the national landscape of services for adults with autism.
See highlights from the 2023/24 grantees in Grant Impact Report
invested in autism programs since 2005
states and territories represented by NEXT grantees
autistic-led projects funded (launched in 2023)
INNOVATION & IMPACT
Since 2005, NEXT for AUTISM has funded 437 projects at 175 organizations across 39 states and territories.
The neurodiverse grants committee identifies and funds both autistic-led and community-based grantees who are leading the way with innovative solutions transforming the autism landscape. These initiatives address critical needs in the areas of work, home, social engagement, and health & well-being, and result in the building of real-time service delivery for the autistic adults they support and build stronger communities for lasting change.
GRANTEE BENEFITS
As a grantee, you’ll receive more than funding. Becoming part of the NEXT for AUTISM network means gaining access to valuable resources, connections, and opportunities:
- Amplification of Resources & Events: We’ll spotlight your programs and resources across our platforms, increasing your reach and visibility.
- Peer Connections: Participate in facilitated discussions with other grantees to share best practices and collaborate on innovative solutions. Together, we can work smarter, not harder.
- This program is about partnership, growth, and innovation—together, we will make a lasting impact.
The support that Shepherd’s Way has received from NEXT for AUTISM has allowed us to take a concept and an idea and transform it into a highly structured and thriving organization."
Ben French
President and CEO, Shepherd’s Way
GRANTEE SPOTLIGHTS
Inspiring stories from recent NEXT grant recipients
Unscripted Learning
Urban Autism Solutions
University of Central Florida
The NEXT for AUTISM grants program is made possible in large part due to consistent and dedicated funding generated by our Night of Too Many Stars live comedy event. Night of Too Many Stars was created by longtime SNL and Conan O'Brien writer/producer Robert Smigel and his wife, Michelle Smigel, a NEXT for AUTISM board co-chair, who struggled to find effective education for their autistic son, Daniel.
On behalf of the hundreds of programs across the country that have benefitted from the NEXT grant program, our deepest thanks to the Smigels for the laughter and joy they help bring to the stage.
