Levine Impact Lab Grant Program

The Levine Impact Lab’s Operational Support Program is a 12-month initiative designed to strengthen the operational effectiveness of mid-sized environmental nonprofits in the United States. Structured as a high-engagement partnership, the program provides both grant funding and tailored operational support to help organizations accelerate progress on strategic and financial priorities. At its core, the program emphasizes collaborative problem-solving, with the Levine Impact Lab (LIL) team working closely with organizational leaders on a defined project related to operations, financial sustainability, or growth. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with missions centered on environmental justice, climate solutions, or sustainability. Participating organizations should have a current strategic plan and an annual operating budget between $500,000 and $3.5 million. They must also operate under a governance structure that includes an active and engaged Board of Directors. While there are no strict staffing thresholds, LIL prefers applicants with at least 8 to 10 full-time staff and the internal capacity to meaningfully engage in intensive operational projects over the course of the year. A defining requirement of the program is that participating organizations bring a specific operational challenge or initiative to the table. Past participants have addressed priorities such as expanding earned revenue streams, strengthening financial infrastructure, or preparing for organizational growth. Each cohort member collaborates with LIL’s operations team to co-develop a tailored 12-month work plan with clear goals and shared accountability. Participation requires a time commitment of approximately 10 hours per month, active engagement in regular advising sessions, and responsiveness to deadlines and project milestones. Additional staff beyond the two designated leads may be involved in relevant aspects of the engagement depending on the nature of the project. Each organization is required to assign two senior leaders with decision-making authority and the ability to commit sustained attention to the program. These individuals serve as primary points of collaboration throughout the engagement, supported as needed by other internal staff. Organizations must also be prepared to engage in virtual cohort sessions, participate in an in-person retreat in early May, and collaborate with LIL via online platforms such as Slack. In addition to operational project execution, cohort members contribute to peer learning and shared knowledge-building. Program success depends on mutual accountability and open communication between LIL and participating organizations. This includes biweekly advising, six-month check-ins, and a formal annual evaluation. In cases where LIL’s support needs refinement, organizations are expected to provide timely feedback to ensure alignment and effectiveness. Board collaboration is also integral, with LIL representatives invited to strategic board discussions to support organizational change efforts. Organizations deeply rooted in Indigenous communities within the U.S. or U.S.-affiliated territories are especially encouraged to apply. With a focus on sustainability, equity, and capacity-building, the Operational Support Program presents a unique opportunity for mission-driven organizations to strengthen their internal infrastructure while advancing broader environmental impact goals.