General Operating Support Grants

The Collier Community Foundation is offering the FY26 General Operating Support Grants to eligible nonprofits from May 1 to May 27, 2025. This grant opportunity is part of the Foundation's ongoing efforts to support impactful community programs within Collier County, Florida. The Foundation focuses its funding on key areas including arts and culture, environment, education or employment, healthcare or mental health, and human services. Emphasizing measurable outcomes, the Foundation aligns its grantmaking strategies with local data and needs assessments to address significant community gaps and promote sustainable solutions. Nonprofits may apply for one General Operating Support grant or one Program grant during this cycle, but not both. In addition, organizations with budgets under $3 million are eligible to apply for a Capacity grant. The General Operating Support grant provides between $5,000 and $15,000 and is intended for core organizational expenses such as staffing, technology, administration, communications, small capital items, materials, and supplies. Grant funds must be used within one year of receipt unless otherwise stated in the grant agreement. Applicants must demonstrate measurable outcomes and are encouraged to update their profiles in the Nonprofit Directory before applying. It is strongly recommended that applicants ensure their mission addresses a clearly documented community need using sources like the Community Indicators Report, Community Needs Assessment, and strategic plans specific to Collier County. If applicants have questions regarding eligibility, they are urged to consult with Laura Simmelink prior to submitting an application. Eligibility requirements include being a tax-exempt nonprofit serving Collier County residents, operating for at least two fiscal years, having filed nonprofit tax returns, and aligning with the grant guidelines. Applications must be submitted on time and reflect relevance to the county. Additional conditions include agreement with the Foundation's Statement of Diversity and a commitment to report funding outcomes. Nonprofits that serve minors must conduct background checks on relevant personnel. Funding is not available for individuals, conduit organizations, political or religious activities, lobbying, research, campaigns, travel, or organizations outside Collier County. The grant decision process involves review by community-based volunteer committees supported by Foundation staff. Proposals are evaluated based on sustainability, outcomes, and alignment with strategic community priorities. The Foundation also administers grants from field-of-interest and donor-advised funds, although the latter are not part of the competitive grant cycle. For application-related questions, applicants may contact Dawn Grundeman, Grants Administrator, or Laura Simmelink, Vice President of Grantmaking, at the provided contact details.