The Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program, administered by the Vermont Community Foundation, is designed to support nonprofit organizations in Vermont by funding consultant fees for capacity-building initiatives. The program aims to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of these organizations through various activities. Grants of up to $5,000 are available to assist nonprofits in improving their operational capabilities and strategic planning.

The primary purpose of the grant program is to facilitate activities that increase the overall effectiveness and sustainability of nonprofit organizations. This includes funding for strategic planning initiatives that help clarify an organization's mission, goals, and performance measures. Additionally, the program supports financial sustainability planning, which may involve diversifying revenue streams and enhancing fundraising skills. Other areas of focus include merger planning, diversity and inclusion policy development, and training for board and staff members to build organizational capacity.

Eligible applicants for the Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program include organizations and municipalities that are located in or serve the people of Vermont. The program does not prioritize previous recipients, although they are encouraged to reach out to discuss new projects. It is important to note that the program does not support certain activities, such as repeat funding for the same organization within a three-year period, capital campaign preparations, grant writing fees, startup costs for new organizations, and expenses related to marketing, outreach, or staff licensure.

The application process for the grant is ongoing, allowing organizations to apply at any time. There are no matching requirements for the funding, making it accessible for various nonprofits. Interested applicants can find more information and submit their applications through the Vermont Community Foundation's website.

When applying, organizations should be prepared to answer specific questions related to their capacity-building needs and how the funding will be utilized. The evaluation criteria for the grant will focus on the potential impact of the proposed activities on the organization's effectiveness and sustainability.

The total program funding available is $500,000, with grants typically awarded up to $5,000. Organizations interested in applying should contact Jane Mulcahy at the Vermont Community Foundation for further details or assistance. The program is currently active and accepting applications, providing a valuable opportunity for nonprofits in Vermont to enhance their operational capabilities.