Targeted Nonprofit Capacity-Building Grant Program

The Cape Cod Foundation, founded in 1989, is a private philanthropic organization committed to enhancing the quality of life in Cape Cod through grantmaking and community investment. Over the years, it has awarded more than $100 million in grants and scholarships. One of its key initiatives is the Targeted Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program, which aims to support nonprofits at pivotal moments of growth or change by strengthening internal systems and promoting organizational sustainability. The Targeted Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program was designed to help local nonprofits become more effective and efficient in fulfilling their missions. It provides financial support for projects that build core infrastructure and enhance long-term sustainability. These projects may involve strategic planning implementation, workflow improvements, human resource initiatives, DEI collaborations, governance reform, communications strategy, and more. Eligible expenses include equipment, software, consulting services, training, and staff time directly associated with capacity building. The program encourages collaboration and cross-sector partnerships. Grantees are also required to participate in a peer learning cohort involving structured meetings, mixers, and optional site tours to foster knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Participation in evaluation activities such as surveys, reports, and check-ins is also required. Projects must be action-oriented, with strong plans for implementation and sustainability beyond the grant period. Operational expenses are allowed without restriction, and the Foundation acknowledges that grant funds may only partially cover a project’s total cost. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities, organizations with fiscal sponsors, faith-based organizations (if services are secular and inclusive), civic organizations with fiscal sponsorship, and public/private schools or government agencies with supporting documentation. Ineligible uses include debt reduction, capital campaigns, endowment building, and completed projects. Applications undergo a rigorous multi-step review process involving Foundation staff, a community grant committee, and final approval from the Foundation's board. The 2024 cycle opened on May 1, 2024, with a letter of intent deadline on June 6, 2024, followed by a full proposal deadline of July 25, 2024. Awards were announced in August 2024, and the grant concluded in August 2025. The Foundation is pausing the program for 2025 with a revised version expected in 2026. Applicants were previously guided to submit through the Foundation’s online system using the Philanthropy Massachusetts Common Proposal Budget Template. Program contact is Caitlin Buckley, Capacity Building and Strategic Partnerships Officer, reachable at cbuckley@capecodfoundation.org.

Proposals should be action-oriented, focused on strategic goals, and demonstrate sustainability. Collaborative and DEI projects are prioritized.