Capacity Grants for Small Nonprofits

The Collier Community Foundation is offering Capacity Grants in FY26 to support small nonprofit organizations with annual operating budgets under $3 million. These grants are specifically designed to enhance operational effectiveness by providing funding for capacity-building efforts. The initiative supports nonprofit sustainability by ensuring that organizations have access to tools and processes aligned with industry best practices. Capacity Grants are available during the May 2025 cycle and organizations may request funding between $500 and $5,000. Each request must be matched 1:1 by the applying nonprofit, which means they must provide an equal amount of funding from other sources. Funds awarded must be utilized within one year unless otherwise specified in the grant agreement. The grant supports capacity-building initiatives such as strategic planning, organizational assessments, board training, infrastructure improvements, and program planning. It also includes support for enhancing fundraising, marketing, financial management, and exploring mergers or strategic partnerships. To apply, nonprofits must serve Collier County, Florida, and have operated for at least two full fiscal years with a filed nonprofit tax return. Additional eligibility requirements include agreement with the Community Foundation’s Statement of Diversity, providing outcome reports, and performing background checks on all staff and volunteers working directly with minors in youth-serving programs. Organizations must also update their profiles in the Nonprofit Directory before applying and ensure their application addresses a documented community need, referencing reports like the Community Indicators report or the Community Needs Assessment. The application opens on May 1, 2025, and closes on May 27, 2025. Awards will be announced in September 2025. Applicants may also apply for either a Program Grant or an Operating Support Grant, but not both, in the same cycle. However, one Capacity Grant application is allowed per cycle if the organization meets the budget criteria. Applicants must submit a detailed budget and financial statement using the foundation's designated forms. The foundation encourages contacting Laura Simmelink with any eligibility questions before applying to ensure efficient use of time and effort. Applications not aligned with community needs or outside of the eligibility scope will not be considered. The foundation does not fund individuals, religious or political activities, event sponsorships, or travel-related expenses.