Black Bookstore Heritage GranT
Honoring the Legacy of Mother Rose
Georgia Rose Peat West — affectionately known as Mother Rose — founded Underground Books in Sacramento, California in 2003 and lovingly managed it until her passing on December 23, 2024. She was deeply devoted to the Black bookstore community and worked tirelessly to celebrate Black stories and sustain the Black bookstore tradition.
In her memory, her family and loved ones established the Mother Rose Trust Fund to carry forward her vision and commitment to Black-owned bookstores.
About the Grant
Each year, the Mother Rose Trust Fund, in partnership with NAB2, will award a total of up to $5,000 in grants to support Black-owned bookstores. Multiple bookstores may be selected each year, with individual award amounts determined based on the number of recipients and the needs of applicants.
These are one-time grants, intended to provide immediate support for specific projects or needs. Funds may be used for start-up, renovation, or growth costs that strengthen the role of Black bookstores as cultural and community anchors. The Black Bookstore Heritage Grant reflects Mother Rose’s belief that Black bookstores are vital spaces for literacy, culture, and community — and that investing in them preserves heritage while fueling future growth.
NAB2 will serve as a partner in promoting The Black Bookstore Heritage Grant, helping to facilitate the process, and identifying applicants to be considered, while the Mother Rose Trust Fund administers and distributes all awards.
How to Apply
Interested bookstores are invited to submit an Expression of Interest by completing a short application form. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and awards will be announced later this year.