Capital Requests Grant

The Champlin Foundation, founded in 1932, is a Rhode Island-based private philanthropic institution that has awarded over $705 million in grants to nonprofit organizations throughout the state. With a legacy of supporting physical infrastructure, the Foundation focuses exclusively on funding capital projects that enhance the capacity and effectiveness of organizations serving Rhode Island residents. Its funding priorities span nine key sectors: Arts & Culture, Conservation & Parks, Education, Healthcare, Historic Preservation & Heritage, Libraries, Social Services, Welfare of Animals, and Youth Services. The Foundation’s capital grants are intended to support transformative investments in physical assets. These grants typically cover renovations, new construction, equipment purchases, and technology infrastructure—anything that strengthens an organization's long-term operational capabilities. Organizations must demonstrate how their proposed capital improvements will directly contribute to mission delivery and service to Rhode Islanders. Grants are not intended for general operating costs or programmatic expenses. There are two annual application cycles specifically for traditional capital requests. Cycle One opens on December 15 and closes on January 15. It is open to most applicants except for Houses of Worship and Traditional Public Schools, which are required to apply during Cycle Two. Applications are reviewed during the winter and spring months, with final decisions made in late May. Notifications are issued in early June, and funds are distributed by mid-June. Cycle Two opens on June 1 and closes on July 1, with a similar review timeline leading to awards being announced by the end of November and distributed by mid-December. The application process is entirely online and administered through a portal hosted by Foundant Technologies. Applicants must first review the Foundation’s grant guidelines and FAQs to ensure eligibility and to prepare necessary documentation. The portal allows organizations to update contact information, submit applications, and track historical submissions. During the review process, the Foundation may request additional documentation or schedule site visits, so applicants are advised to maintain accurate contact information throughout the review period. Post-award, all grantees are required to submit annual reports on the use of funds, beginning 12 months after award distribution and continuing each year until the full grant is expended. These reports can be submitted through the Foundation’s online portal. While public acknowledgment of funding is not required, grantees are welcome to announce their grant through newsletters, websites, or press releases using the approved language and logos provided by the Foundation. However, acknowledgment on vehicle wraps, plaques, or permanent signage is not permitted. For assistance, applicants may contact Heather Fraser, Grants & Systems Manager, by phone at 401-944-9200 x115 or via email at [email protected]. The Foundation also provides planning tools, FAQs, and tutorials to support applicants throughout the process. Interested organizations are encouraged to begin preparations early to meet the relevant application deadline.

Review all application guidelines in advance and ensure contact information is current throughout the review period.