The Yawkey Foundation offers Strategic Investment Grants to support high-impact nonprofit organizations that are undergoing significant strategic transformations. These grants are designed to catalyze plans approved by an organization’s board that aim to enhance, expand, or restructure their mission delivery for long-term sustainability and impact.
Strategic Investment Grants may support regional expansion within the Foundation’s geographic priority areas, foster collaborations between multiple nonprofits to improve services or program delivery, and assist with mergers or consolidations during periods of organizational transition. These grants emphasize feasibility and measurable progress within a nonprofit’s strategic plan. Funding amounts range from $250,000 to $1 million, and grants are typically distributed over several years.
Eligibility to apply for these grants is limited to nonprofits with a proven track record and strong leadership. Nonprofits that have not received funding from the Yawkey Foundation in recent years are advised to first apply for Program & Small Capital Grants to introduce their organization and work to the Foundation. Strategic Investment Grant proposals should demonstrate board-level commitment and include comprehensive details about budgets, expenses, projected outcomes, and post-grant sustainability.
There are two annual submission periods for Initial Proposals for Strategic Investment Grants: January 1 to January 24, and May 1 to May 23. These proposals are open to nonprofits aligned with any of the Foundation’s Areas of Giving, which include Health Care, Youth & Amateur Athletics, Education, Arts & Culture, Human Services, and Conservation & Wildlife. The review process for these proposals spans between 6 to 12 months. The Foundation does not provide feedback during this period but will contact applicants if additional information is required.
The Foundation operates primarily within Eastern Massachusetts, focusing particularly on underserved regions and Gateway Cities. Nonprofits must align their missions with the Foundation’s giving priorities to be considered for funding. All inquiries and additional questions beyond what is addressed in the FAQ should be directed to yawkey@yawkey.org.
