Capital Grants

The Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, a prominent private philanthropic organization based in Denver, offers Capital Grants to support arts and culture nonprofits undertaking capital projects. Known for fostering a vibrant and inclusive creative economy, the foundation emphasizes equitable access, diverse community engagement, and sustainability in its funding priorities. The Capital Grants are designed primarily for organizations with operating budgets under $5 million and those with whom the foundation has a pre-existing relationship. These grants typically support infrastructure and facility improvements that align with the foundation’s goal to enhance the capacity of Denver’s arts and culture ecosystem. The Capital Grants are not intended for large cultural institutions with substantial operating budgets, as the foundation aims to maintain flexible funding that supports smaller, community-driven initiatives. Preference is given to projects that serve multiple organizations, improve access for diverse communities, support live/work spaces for artists, and fill critical gaps in the local arts and culture infrastructure. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to engage in planning conversations with the foundation to demonstrate the feasibility and readiness of their capital campaigns. This advance planning is considered crucial due to the potential size and long-term nature of capital investments. To be eligible, applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations primarily producing and presenting arts and culture for the public. They must be based in Denver and deliver most of their programming within the city, although exceptions may be made for small, community-centered groups located in adjacent counties (Arapahoe, Adams, or Jefferson) upon discussion with the grants team. Organizations must have at least three years of consistent public arts and culture programming, an annual operating budget of at least $50,000, and staffing equivalent to at least 0.5 FTE. A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices is also required. The grant application process begins with a Grant Interest Form for new applicants. This form initiates a review by the foundation's team, who follow up with next steps. Returning grantees—those funded in the past three years—are not required to submit the interest form but are encouraged to reach out with questions. Organizations are eligible to receive one grant per 12-month period, and a final report is required upon grant completion. Applications are submitted through the foundation’s online portal. Capital Grant applications are accepted quarterly, with upcoming cycles clearly outlined: the next opens on January 9, 2026, and closes February 10, 2026, with funding decisions announced in April 2026. Subsequent cycles follow in April, July, and October, with corresponding deadlines and award decision months. This regular schedule allows organizations to plan submissions accordingly, and recurring deadlines are consistent with the foundation’s commitment to year-round engagement with the nonprofit arts sector. Funding restrictions include ineligibility for individual scholarships or grants, religious activities, endowments, debt retirement, and organizations located outside Colorado or not benefiting Colorado residents. Additionally, events and media/film productions are not typically eligible. For organizations using fiscal sponsors, the foundation provides specific guidelines and requires a formal fiscal sponsor agreement. Contact information for inquiries includes a main phone line (+1 303-825-3774) and email ([email protected]), with the foundation's address listed as 1033 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204.

Emphasize feasibility, equitable access, service to multiple orgs, and DEI commitment.