Movement Capacity

Today, more than 500 organizations and their funders and allies are working to achieve equality for LGBT people. These groups are united in their vision of a nation where LGBT people have the same chances as other Americans to earn a living, be safe in their communities, serve their country and take care of the ones they love. As a whole, the LGBT movement spends about $530 million each year and employs thousands of people in locations across the country.

Achieving LGBT equality requires many different approaches and strategies, as well as work at all levels of society. Some LGBT organizations work to change laws and policies through involvement in court cases, lobbying and elections. Others work directly to serve LGBT people in need, often focusing on those who are hurt or whose opportunities are limited because of social stigma and inequitable laws. Still other organizations work to help educate the American public and change people’s attitudes about LGBT Americans and the need for change.

The LGBT movement’s success will require that LGBT advocates, allies and funders understand the larger movement and work together to strategically apply their resources. MAP provides information and analysis about the health, capacity and focus of the LGBT movement. Our goal is to help LGBT organizations and their allies and supporters understand the strengths and weaknesses of the movement, current levels of activity and funding in priority areas, and where resources are needed most. Additionally, MAP provides tools that LGBT organizations can use to help strengthen their individual capacities in key areas from leadership to fundraising to financial management and more.