The Peter and Elizabeth Tower Foundation is currently accepting applications for its Strengthening Partner Capacity Grant Program. This initiative aims to support organizations in building and enhancing their capacity to serve their communities effectively. The foundation is particularly interested in funding projects that strengthen systems, structures, cultures, skills, resources, and power within organizations. Examples of eligible projects include board and leadership development, diversity and inclusion initiatives, evaluation design, organizational development, professional development, program planning, small capital projects, staff mental wellness support, and technology planning.

The primary purpose of the grant program is to empower organizations to improve their operational effectiveness and better serve populations in need. The foundation emphasizes a focus on projects that benefit young people affected by intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders, especially those from historically marginalized communities. This includes individuals who identify as Black, Hispanic, Native American, disabled, housing insecure, immigrant, or LGBTQIA+.

Funding for the program totals $1,050,000 for the year 2024, with individual grants ranging from $15,000 to $50,000. Each grant is intended for a duration of one year, and organizations may apply for a maximum award of $30,000, which includes a 20 percent allowance for administrative overhead. The foundation is particularly interested in supporting organizations that have not recently received funding.

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations with a 501(c)(3) designation, not-for-profit public benefit corporations, public or diocesan school districts, and private or charter schools. Organizations must provide services in specific regions of Massachusetts and New York, including Barnstable, Dukes, Essex, and Nantucket counties in Massachusetts, as well as Erie and Niagara counties in New York. Additionally, applicants must currently offer prevention, treatment, or recovery services to individuals aged 26 or younger from the specified populations.

The foundation prioritizes applications from organizations that serve young people with intersecting identities as members of historically marginalized communities. Preference may also be given to organizations that have not received recent grant awards. This focus aims to ensure that funding is directed toward those who may have the greatest need for capacity-building support.

Submission requirements and application questions are detailed on the foundation's website. Applicants are encouraged to provide comprehensive information about their proposed projects and how they align with the foundation's objectives. The evaluation criteria will consider the potential impact of the proposed project, the organization's capacity to implement it, and the alignment with the foundation's mission.

The deadline for submitting applications is October 9, 2024. Interested organizations should ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria and prepare their applications in advance of this date. For further information, applicants can visit the Peter and Elizabeth Tower Foundation's website or contact the foundation directly via email or phone.