Gaining Funds for Resistance
Gaining Funds for Resistance
Many times, the left generates incredible ideas for mutual aid programs and organizations that could benefit everyone. However, we often lack the financial means to bring these visions to life. Many of us are underpaid working-class people, and many are also actively oppressed by systemic structures. To sustain our projects, we need creative and disciplined ways to generate income and build funding streams.
Below are strategies to consider:
1. Entering the Trades
Yes, we’ve heard this suggestion from unlikely sources, but it’s true: trades can provide high-paying opportunities. Becoming skilled in areas like electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, or welding can lead to subcontracting jobs or even independence through your own LLC. This path offers both financial stability and flexibility.
Explore apprenticeships: U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeships
2. Discipline in Selling Your Art
The left is full of talented artists, but discipline is often the missing piece. Creating consistent projects and selling them through platforms like Etsy, Amazon Handmade, or your own website can generate steady income. Treat your art like a business: set schedules, track expenses, and market effectively.
Resource: How to Sell Art Online
3. Starting Businesses in Cheaper Countries
This is controversial, but worth mentioning. Setting up businesses in countries like Colombia or Mexico can be far cheaper than in the U.S., potentially allowing you to generate funds for your operations. However, this also means engaging with the same capitalist systems we critique, so weigh the ethical trade-offs carefully.
Resource: Guide to Doing Business in Mexico
4. Investing in the Stock Market
Apps like Robinhood or Webull make investing accessible. Even small investments can grow into meaningful streams of income over time. Learn the basics of stocks, ETFs, and index funds to minimize risk.
Resource: Investing Basics by Investopedia
5. Forming LLCs, Nonprofits, or Community Organizations
Creating legal entities such as LLCs or nonprofits can help hold capital and property for your organization. Nonprofits, in particular, can access grants, loans, and donations. This legitimizes your work and opens doors to funding streams.
Resource: How to Start a Nonprofit
6. Hosting Events and Fundraisers
Organize dances, concerts, art shows, or community festivals with admission fees. These not only raise money but also build solidarity and visibility for your cause.
Resource: Event Fundraising Guide
7. Crowdfunding Campaigns
Platforms like GoFundMe, Patreon, or Open Collective allow supporters to contribute directly to your projects. Crowdfunding works best when paired with strong storytelling and transparency about how funds will be used.
8. Cooperative Enterprises
Worker-owned cooperatives align with leftist values and provide sustainable income. From food co-ops to tech collectives, these models allow communities to share profits and decision-making power.
Resource: U.S. Federation of Worker Cooperatives
9. Grants for Social Justice Work
Many foundations support grassroots activism, mutual aid, and community organizing. Applying for grants requires effort, but the payoff can be significant.
Resource: GrantStation
10. Skill-Sharing and Workshops
Offer paid workshops on skills you already have whether it’s art, writing, organizing, or trades. This not only generates income but also empowers others with knowledge.
Final Thought: Funding resistance requires creativity, discipline, and sometimes uncomfortable compromises. By diversifying income streams through trades, art, legal entities, events, and cooperative models we can build sustainable movements that thrive despite systemic barriers.
