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Sea Grant Programs play an important role in directly supporting ocean and coastal researchers through competitive research grant programs. However, past sessions hosted at Sea Grant Week by the DEIJA and TLK Communities of Practices yielded broad recognition that the Sea Grant grantmaking process requires revisioning to reflect the needs of diverse and underserved communities in funding solicitation priorities, as well as to reduce barriers that limit the diversity and impact of awardees. This session will leverage the ongoing efforts of Sea Grant’s Equitable Grantmaking Working Group (EGWG), supported by the National Sea Grant Office, to develop strategies for centering equity and justice into a redesigned grantmaking process. Drawing upon Sea Grant’s unique ability to effectively interweave research, extension and education, participants will collaborate with National Sea Grant Program Officers and Sea Grant Directors to discuss barriers to implementing effective community-driven request for proposals (RFPs) within the Sea Grant framework and develop solutions. Participants will collaboratively develop outputs applicable to the broader Sea Grant Network, including (1) recognition of challenges and barriers to implementing equitable funding opportunities at Sea Grant, (2) guidelines and best practices for equity in research funding, and (3) recommendations for the NSGO to enhance research funding accessibility and promote community-driven RFPs.