Veterans Non-Profit Capital Program

The Veterans' Nonprofit Capital Program (VNCP), administered by the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services in collaboration with the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), is a state-funded initiative created to support nonprofit organizations serving veterans, service members, and military families. The program was first established in the 2022-2023 New York State Budget with a $5 million allocation, and continued support has been ensured with its reappropriation in the 2024-2025 State Budget. VNCP represents New York State's commitment to investing in the infrastructure and capacity of organizations that deliver essential services to its veteran population. The third round of the Veterans' Nonprofit Capital Program was launched on March 27, 2025, by Governor Kathy Hochul, offering at least $1.35 million in capital grants. This funding opportunity aims to enhance the quality and reach of services provided to New York’s veterans and their families by financing capital improvements to facilities run by qualifying nonprofits. Previous rounds of the program awarded a total of $3.65 million to 57 organizations across the state. These grants are intended to sustain and expand critical infrastructure that supports veteran health, wellness, and community reintegration. Eligible uses of grant funds under VNCP include architecture, design, engineering, construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, and the purchase of equipment and furnishings necessary for facility upgrades. These capital investments ensure that nonprofits can modernize and expand their operations to meet the evolving needs of veterans and their families in safe and effective environments. Grant recipients are expected to align their projects with the goal of enhancing service delivery and long-term sustainability. To qualify for VNCP funding, organizations must be veteran-focused nonprofits in which at least 75% of members are veterans or service members of the U.S. military, with military family members comprising the majority of the remainder. These organizations must verify their primary purpose is to serve veterans, service members, and their families. All applicants must also be prequalified in the New York Statewide Financial System (SFS) prior to submission. Prequalification information is provided through a webinar, and applicants may submit questions until April 11, with answers posted no later than April 18, 2025. The application process is supported by a comprehensive Request for Grant Applications (RGA), which is available on the Department of Veterans' Services and DASNY websites. It includes detailed guidelines, scoring templates, application forms, and frequently asked questions. A dedicated webinar outlining the application process will be posted on April 9, 2025, to assist prospective applicants. This initiative ensures clarity and accessibility, reducing barriers to entry for community-based veteran service providers. Inquiries related to the program must be directed to the VNCP Coordinator via the official program email. The application deadline and further performance timeline specifics are provided within the RGA documents. As the VNCP is part of an ongoing commitment by the state, future funding rounds may continue based on budget allocations and evolving veteran service needs. With its targeted support for infrastructure enhancement, the VNCP is a key mechanism through which New York State honors and invests in its veteran communities.