Gates Family Foundation Capital Grants

The Gates Family Foundation offers Capital Grant Opportunities for nonprofit organizations operating in Colorado. With a longstanding commitment to improving the quality of life for Colorado residents, the Foundation supports infrastructure and facility-based investments that strengthen local communities across the state. This grant opportunity is rooted in the belief that land, facilities, and civic infrastructure are long-term assets that can significantly enhance the ability of organizations to fulfill their missions. The Foundation actively funds projects in both urban and rural areas, emphasizing responsiveness to the unique needs and opportunities of each community. Capital grants are generally reserved for comprehensive capital campaigns, specifically those involving construction, expansion, renovation, land acquisition, or the purchase of buildings. Eligible applicants are limited to nonprofit organizations whose projects directly benefit Colorado communities. Among the most competitive are projects that address systemic challenges with practical solutions, reflect meaningful community involvement, and demonstrate strong support from the organization’s governing board. Proposals that align with the Foundation's strategic priorities in K-12 public education, natural resources, community development, and informed communities are also given preference. The Foundation places a particular emphasis on projects located in rural or low-income areas of Colorado, especially where there is limited access to other capital funding sources. Furthermore, projects that serve communities of color, incorporate sustainable or green building practices, and promote resilience in the face of climate change are prioritized. Within its broader funding approach, the Foundation has identified five key areas for capital investments: Arts & Culture, Community Development, Education, Natural Resources, Parks & Recreation, and the Well-Being of Children, Youth & Families. For Arts & Culture, eligible projects may include community theaters, museums, libraries, and performing arts venues that contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of the community. In the realm of historic preservation, the Foundation favors proposals that support community revitalization or provide opportunities for significant community use. Projects that serve as educational resources for all age groups are particularly encouraged. Capital projects must already have raised at least 30% of their total budget before they will be considered for a grant. Capital grant applications are reviewed twice annually. The deadlines for submission are March 15 for a mid-June decision and September 1 for a mid-December decision. Note that the fall deadline was previously September 15 and has been updated. Interested applicants are encouraged to reach out to Lisa Rucker, Senior Program Officer/Grants Manager, to discuss their proposed project before applying. Proposals should follow the narrative guidance from Section III of the Colorado Common Application for Capital Grants. For inquiries, applicants may contact Lisa Rucker at the Gates Family Foundation. The Foundation is headquartered at 1390 Lawrence Street, Suite 400, Denver, CO 80204-2081. General questions can also be directed to info@gatesfamilyfoundation.org or by calling (303) 722-1881. Recent recipients of this grant program include Elevation Community Land Trust, National Wildlife Federation, and Denver Arts and Venues, among others, with grant amounts ranging from $25,000 to $1,000,000.

Applicants are encouraged to contact Lisa Rucker to discuss project viability before applying.