Emerging Leader Grants

The Emerging Leader Grants are an initiative of the We Raise Foundation, a private charitable organization committed to supporting Christian nonprofit efforts across the United States. These grants are specifically designed to invest in both the personal leadership development of early-career nonprofit leaders and the innovative programs they are spearheading within under-resourced communities. The Foundation’s goal is to foster long-term growth and impact by equipping rising leaders with funding and leadership development opportunities that will empower them to serve effectively and sustainably. Each Emerging Leader Grant totals $15,000 and is distributed over a two-year period. Of this amount, $10,000 is designated for direct program support, while the remaining $5,000 is allocated exclusively for the personal leadership development of the grantee. This dual-purpose funding model underscores the Foundation’s belief in holistic investment—supporting both the work being done and the individual doing it. Leadership development activities may include participation in courses such as the Leadership Fundamentals course through The Center for Creative Leadership, attendance at conferences like the Global Leadership Summit, personalized leadership coaching, or other approved professional growth activities. However, the Foundation explicitly excludes degree programs and tuition reimbursement from eligible leadership development expenditures. Eligibility for this grant is specifically limited to Christian 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that are located in and serve communities within the United States. The grant program is geared toward early-career professionals; individuals with extensive leadership experience or those who have previously received this grant are not eligible. Furthermore, the funded program must be either new or significantly revised or expanded. The leader must demonstrate a faith-based calling and core leadership traits such as strategic thinking, communication skills, persistence, and community engagement. Applications for the Emerging Leader Grant must be submitted through the Foundation’s online grantee portal. The grant has a rolling application model, with two formal review cycles annually. Submissions received by February 15 are reviewed with awards announced in April, while those received by September 30 are reviewed for awards announced in November. Proposals are reviewed by program staff, and the process may include follow-up interviews, mentor consultations, and potential revisions prior to final recommendation and decision by the Foundation’s President. Successful applicants are expected to comply with rigorous reporting requirements. Grantees must submit reports every six months throughout the grant term, with a final follow-up report after the grant concludes. These reports must document program progress, leadership development outcomes, financial expenditures, and include visual and narrative evidence of impact. Failure to comply with reporting timelines may result in delayed payments and future ineligibility. Ultimately, the We Raise Foundation views this grant as a catalytic opportunity—supporting not just present work, but shaping the future capacity and vision of emerging nonprofit leaders. By aligning financial support with personal growth, the Foundation aims to ensure that leaders are not only successful in the moment but are also prepared for sustained impact and service over time.

Applicants must ensure eligibility and readiness to commit to regular reporting. Past recipients may not reapply.