The Activation Fund is a grant opportunity that supports discrete, one-year projects designed to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of community organizations. This fund is available for projects that aim to reach the next level of development, with a focus on initiatives such as one-time training, professional development, pilot programs, demonstration projects, program planning, or capital projects like equipment or technology purchases. The projects funded under this initiative are expected to be completed within a 12-month period, and ongoing fundraising efforts for continuation after the grant period are not permissible.

For the 2025 cycle, grant requests should range from $60,000 to $125,000. The total funding amount available is not explicitly mentioned, but the grant’s scope allows for flexibility in types of support, including costs related to capacity-building activities. Previous grantees can be reviewed by accessing a list of selected projects from past cycles. Preference will be given to organizations that have not received Foundation funding in the last 12 months, although there is no mandatory waiting period between submissions.

The 2025 Activation Fund follows a two-step application process. Phase I requires applicants to submit a cover sheet and a one-page concept paper, outlining the proposed project, its anticipated impact on organizational capacity, the grant amount requested, and other potential sources of support. This phase is due on February 28, 2025. In Phase II, organizations invited to proceed must submit more detailed application materials, including a project budget, IRS Form 990 or financial statements, and a Fiscal Sponsor Commitment Form if applicable. The deadline for Phase II submissions is May 15, 2025.

Key dates for the 2025 cycle are as follows: Phase I materials are due by February 28, 2025; applicants will be notified of Phase II invitations by April 11, 2025; Phase II applications are due by May 15, 2025; and applicants will be notified of final funding decisions by June 27, 2025. The grant period for 2025 will run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

Organizations interested in the grant are encouraged to attend one of the two virtual information sessions: January 27, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. or February 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. These sessions will provide guidance on the application process, and there will be a Q&A segment. Applicants may also request a recording of the sessions or reach out for accommodations if necessary.

The Foundation evaluates applications based on several factors, including strong leadership, commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, financial stability, and a proven track record of program effectiveness. Measurable goals and objectives are also critical for consideration.