Award Details: The grant amount ranges from $1,000 to $10,000, with an average grant size of $7,391. The funds are intended to support one-time activities that strengthen the internal functioning and effectiveness of nonprofit organizations. Projects can address areas such as board development, strategic planning, diversity and inclusion efforts, agency restructuring, fund development planning, evaluation and community assessments, executive coaching, marketing and communications, information management improvement, specialized staff training, and collaborative management.
Eligibility: 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, fiscally-sponsored organizations, and occasionally other public benefit organizations serving Monterey County residents are eligible to apply. Fiscal sponsors may submit applications for multiple sponsored groups. Individual organizations within a collaborative can also apply for their own OD grant as long as it is not for the same project as the collaborative's. Organizations must be current on reporting obligations for past CFMC grants.
Application Process: Before applying for the grant, applicants are required to review the OD Grant Guidelines and have a conversation with a Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNE) staff person. The application is submitted online through the CFMC's Online Grants Manager. Decision on grant applications is usually made within 2 months of receiving a complete application.
Additional Information: OD grants are part of CFMC's competitive grants program aimed at strengthening nonprofit organizations' internal functioning and ability to advance their mission. Grantees are expected to demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in their organization. The use of grant funds must align with the proposed activities outlined in the application. Grantees are also required to submit a final report within one year of receiving the grant.