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Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

Get support for nonprofit growth with capacity building grants that fund training, infrastructure, strategic planning, and technology upgrades.

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,483 Results based on applied filters

North Dakota Ag Products Utilization Commission (APUC) Grants

North Dakota Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
North Dakota
Unspecified amount

North Dakota Department of Agriculture

We serve, advocate, protect and promote agriculture to benefit everyone.

Ag Products Utilization Commission (APUC) Grants

The Agricultural Products Utilization Commission (APUC) creates new wealth through the development of new and expanded uses of North Dakota's agricultural products through a grant program.

The first 15 qualifying applicants are invited to present funding proposals on a quarterly basis for the following grant categories:

  • Basic and Applied Research
  • Marketing and Utilization
  • Farm Diversification
  • Technical Assistance
  • Nature Based Agri-Tourism
  • Prototype Development and Technology
Agriculture

The Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey Scholarship

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation
Association/Society
United States
US $1,000

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation, founded in 2006, is the newest community foundation in South Carolina. We have a permanent endowment to meet the changing needs of the Pee Dee.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation improves the quality of life in our area of South Carolina through inspired philanthropy and innovative community programs. We serve Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg Counties.

Scholarships

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation partners with donors to administer 12 scholarship funds for the benefit of students in the Pee Dee. All scholarship opportunities are established through specific funds established at ECCF with criteria determined by the donor. 

The Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey Scholarship

This fund provides a scholarship to a graduating Pee Dee area high school senior who plans to major in education and teach at the elementary level. The fund was established in memory of Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey who dedicated twenty years to the teaching of kindergarten students at Theodore Lester Elementary School in Florence, South Carolina.

Education - Higher Education

Wellness, Arts, and the Military Self-directed Art Practice (SAP) Grant

Washington State Arts Commission
State/Local Government
Washington
Up to US $3,000

ArtsWA’s Wellness, Arts, and Military (WAM) program aims to introduce more Veterans and military-connected families to the enriching possibilities of the arts. Whether someone is picking up a creative practice for the first time or returning to a long-time interest, the arts offer a space for self-expression, connection, and discovery. Through participation in artistic experiences, individuals can explore new skills, build community, and engage in meaningful personal growth. Engaging in an art practice improves physical, social, and emotional well-being for active-military, Veterans, and their families.Through the Self-directed Art Practice (SAP) grant program, WAM offers this unique opportunity for eligible military-connected individuals to spend time pursuing an art practice for professional and personal development.

Applicants must provide:

  • an art practice plan
  • 3 art samples
  • a simple budget that shows how time and funds will be used

Military & Veterans Services

Accelerate Program

Mitacs
Private
Canada
Up to C $20,000
The Mitacs Accelerate Program offers students and postdoctoral fellows the opportunity to engage in scalable internships with partner organizations, enhancing their professional networks and gaining hands-on research experience. Participants can apply their academic knowledge to real-world projects, with internships lasting from four to six months. Funding starts at $10,000 for a four-month period, allowing individuals from diverse disciplines to contribute to impactful research initiatives while receiving competitive stipends.
All fields of work Apprenticeship & Internship Programs

Wellness, Arts, and the Military General Operating Support Grant

Washington State Arts Commission
State/Local Government
Washington
Up to US $20,000

Wellness, Arts, and the Military (WAM) supports the growth of artists and arts organizations who have arts and wellness programs for military connected communities. WAM began in 2017 as a Community Connections Project supported by the NEA Creative Forces Military Healing Arts Network. Through summits, convenings, and key partnerships, the WAM program has grown to include arts programming grants, training, funding, and outreach.The Wellness, Arts, and the Military (WAM) General Operating Support Grant provides up to $20,000 to organizations that offer arts programs to military connected individuals and communities. 

For the purposes of this grant, “military connected individuals” is defined as U.S. military active-duty service members, guardsmen, reservists, veterans, and their families and caretakers. 

Military & Veterans Services

Helen and Dale Cropsey Scholarship Endowment (Leelanau County)

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation
Private
Michigan
Unspecified amount

Grand Traverse Regional Community FoundationThe Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.Helen and Dale Cropsey Scholarship Endowment (Leelanau County)Available to residents of the Suttons Bay or the Bingham area, including graduating high school seniors and students currently attending an accredited post secondary educational institution in the state of Michigan. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and attend church in the Suttons Bay or Bingham area. Priority will be given to students attending/planning to attend Michigan State University and who attend Immanuel Lutheran Church or First Lutheran Church. Previous recipients are eligible to apply.

Education - Higher Education

Home Builders' Association of the GT Area Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Grand Traverse Regional Community FoundationThe Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.Home Builders' Association of the GT Area Scholarship Endowment (Regional)Available to residents from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska or Leelanau Counties who are pursuing continuing education related to the home building industry.

Education - Higher Education

Weatherization Assistance Program (WV)

West Virginia Community Advancement and Development
State/Local Government
West Virginia
Unspecified amount

West Virginia Community Advancement and Development

West Virginia Community Advancement and Development works to encourage strong civic engagement through INFRASTRUCTURE, SUSTAINABILITY, COMPLIANCE, and RESILIENCY. WV CAD administers state and federal programs designed to improve the quality of life in West Virginia.

Weatherization Assistance Program

What is Weatherization?

The West Virginia Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federally funded program that helps to increase the energy efficiency of dwellings owned or occupied by low-income persons or to provide such persons renewable energy systems or technologies, reduce their total residential expenditures, and improve their health and safety, especially low-income persons who are particularly vulnerable such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, families with children, high residential energy users, and households with high energy burden. The full scope of the WV Weatherization Assistance Program can be read in the current State Plan. 

The State of West Virginia does not provide direct assistance to households. The State awards program funds to local non-profit Community Action Agencies that provide Weatherization services in all 55 counties of West Virginia. To see who provides Weatherization in your county, check out our resource map here.

Renewable/Sustainable Energy Energy Efficiency & Conservation

Achievement of Excellence Award (Central, West)

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to a variety of scholarships designated to benefit a graduating senior from Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS). 

Achievement of Excellence Award (Central, West)

Available to a graduating senior who has distinguished him/herself through academic achievement, leadership, and proven skills in the adult roles of: Citizen, Healthy & Fit Individual, Family Life Member, Life-Long Learner, and Worker.

Education - Higher Education

BISSELL Pet Foundation: Partners for Pets

Bissell Pet Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
BISSELL Pet Foundation's Partners for Pets program supports over 6,025 animal welfare organizations across the U.S. by providing resources aimed at reducing homeless animals through adoption, spay/neuter initiatives, and emergency support. Eligible organizations must be 501(C)(3) nonprofits or local government entities engaged in animal welfare, fostering community connections and financial assistance during crises. This initiative not only benefits shelters but also enhances partnerships among various animal welfare groups, promoting a united effort to improve animal lives.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Natural Disaster Response Grants

PetSmart Charities
Private
Canada, United States
Unspecified amount
PetSmart Charities offers Natural Disaster Response Grants to support organizations addressing the urgent needs of pets affected by major disasters. Grant funds can be utilized for shelter supplies, veterinary care, structural repairs, and supplemental staff expenses within 30 to 45 days post-disaster. In special cases, funding may extend up to 60 days. Eligible applicants include authorized disaster responders and nonprofit organizations directly impacted by the disaster, ensuring timely assistance to affected animals and their caretakers.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Adoption Partnerships - Adoption Rewards & Adoption Event Grants

PetSmart Charities
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $250,000
PetSmart Charities' Adoption Partnerships and Event Grants support organizations in finding loving homes for pets. With over 10 million pets placed, the program offers resources like cash rewards for adoptions and grants for event support. Eligible partners include registered charities and educational institutions. The maximum grant available is $5,000, aimed at maximizing the impact of adoption events. Join us in enhancing the lives of pets and their new families through collaboration and community engagement.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

“I’m Pet Friendly” License Plate Spay and Neuter Grants

Missouri Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Missouri
Up to US $20,000
The "I'm Pet Friendly" License Plate Grants aim to enhance spay and neuter programs across Missouri by providing funding to eligible animal shelters and non-profit organizations. By purchasing specialty license plates, individuals contribute to a fund that supports these initiatives. Grants are evaluated by a panel and awarded based on the availability of funds, ensuring effective use of resources to reduce the pet population and improve animal health care in the state.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

John F. Burt Scholarship

Community Foundation of East Mississippi Inc.
Private
United States
US $1,000

This scholarship was established to honor the memory of John F. Burt of Neshoba County. Mr. Burt was raised during the depression and as a result he was resilient, a hard worker and resourceful. He learned the importance of sharing with those in need. He served in the US Navy during WWII where he strengthened his beliefs about patriotism, commitment and service. After the war, he and his wife opened a grocery store where he continued to be in service of others. God, family, and fellowship were priorities of Mr. Burt’s; he was always willing to be of service to anyone he considered family and at times to complete strangers. Obviously, Mr. Burt’s experiences shaped his moral code and guided the compass of his life.  Scholarship funds to be used towards fees for tuition and/or books only.

Education - Higher Education

Daughters of American Agriculture Scholarship

American Agri-Women Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000
The Daughters of American Agriculture Scholarship honors pioneering women in agriculture, offering two $1,000 scholarships to women or their daughters pursuing education in agricultural fields. Eligibility includes being a farmer, rancher, or related to one, demonstrating financial need, and having experience in agriculture. The Jean Ibendahl Scholarship supports young women aged 18-23, while the Sister Thomas More Bertels Scholarship is for women 24 and older. This initiative empowers the next generation in agricultural leadership.
Agriculture

American Agri-Women Gail McPherson Fly-In Scholarship

American Agri-Women Foundation
Private
District of Columbia
US $500
The American Agri-Women Gail McPherson Fly-In Scholarship honors a founding member of AAW, supporting members to attend the annual Fly-In in Washington, DC. This scholarship is open to any AAW member, while applicants who have attended a previous Fly-In are ineligible. The initiative promotes leadership and engagement among agricultural women, fostering a community dedicated to advocacy and education.
Agriculture

DAV Charitable Service Trust Grants

Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The DAV Charitable Service Trust provides essential support to empower veterans in leading dignified lives. This private funder focuses on rehabilitation programs, mobility enhancements for veterans with disabilities, and assistance for aging and homeless veterans. Additionally, it addresses the needs of veterans affected by recent conflicts and supports their caregivers and families. Grants are available to eligible organizations recognized by the IRS as tax-exempt, ensuring that the trust's mission effectively reaches those who have served.
Military & Veterans Services

Mid Atlantic Presenter Initiatives Grants

Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation
Private
Delaware, District of Columbia +8 more
US $750 - US $5,000
The Special Presenter Initiatives Grants, offered by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation in partnership with various local arts organizations, aim to support the presentation of professional performing artists at small and mid-size community venues. This initiative encourages projects that feature touring artists and includes community engagement activities, fostering meaningful interactions between artists and local audiences. The program seeks to enhance the cultural landscape of the participating jurisdictions through diverse and innovative performances.
Performing Arts

BEF Educator Grants

Brookline Education Foundation (BEF)
Association/Society
Massachusetts, Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Up to US $3,500

Brookline Education Foundation

The Brookline Education Foundation (BEF) is a nonprofit organization that raises funds to support excellence and innovation in the Public Schools of Brookline (PSB). Through its programs, the BEF enriches the professional growth of educators by recognizing and supporting them as they identify and pursue opportunities that will have the greatest impact on their practice, the lives of their students, and on their school communities.

To facilitate this work, the BEF sponsors three categories of grants for which eligible Brookline educators may apply: Educator (formerly called Teacher), Collaborative, and Idea Lab grants. 

Educator Grants

BEF Educator Grants are awarded to individual and small groups of teachers or administrators on the basis of short written proposals. Educator grants award up to $3,500 for each individual and typically fund professional development or renewal activities. They are not intended to provide curricular materials or fund classroom programs that the school department and PTOs support.

See information for applying educators here.

Teacher Development & Training

Alex Shives Scholarship

Midlands Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,250 - US $2,500

About Us

Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) is here to serve and add value to donors’ philanthropic needs by providing them an opportunity to “invest in the power of community.” It is our goal to identify current and emerging issues, channel resources to address community needs, and help prepare for the future.

MCF Mission

The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to be a catalyst for lasting impact in Sarpy and Cass counties and to give opportunities to organizations and individuals to pursue their charitable goals.

Scholarships Through MCF

Midlands Community Foundation is committed to the futures of communities in Sarpy and Cass Counties, and across the country. Supporting higher education of students is a direct investment in the futures of these communities.

Alex Shives Scholarship Application Guidelines

The purpose of the Fund is to distribute scholarships to assist qualified recipients in their pursuit of higher education who have graduated or will be a graduating senior from either Papillion LaVista or Papillion LaVista South High School and who have participated on the boys or girls golf team at either high school.

The Fund shall annually distribute one (1) scholarship in the total amount of $2,500, split evenly per semester (i.e., $1,250 Fall Semester, and $1,250 Spring Semester).

Education - Higher Education Golf

William Macleay Microbiology Research Fund Grant

The Linnean Society of New South Wales
Association/Society
Australia
Up to A $3,000
The William Macleay Microbiology Research Fund Grant supports innovative microbiological research in Australia. Open to postgraduate students and professional microbiologists, the grant encourages diverse applications aimed at advancing the field. Funds can be utilized for essential research expenses, including equipment, laboratory supplies, and travel within Australasia. However, requests for subsistence or conference travel will not be supported. This initiative fosters original contributions to microbiology, benefiting both academia and the broader community.
Microbiology

Mike's Kids Literacy Grants

Mike's Kids Education Foundation
Private
Madison County, Kentucky
US $500
Mike's Kids Literacy Grants provide essential funding to teachers in Madison County Schools, promoting innovative literacy programs. Established by the Mike's Kids Education Foundation, these annual grants of $500 support creative classroom activities that engage students and enhance learning across various subjects. Since 2009, over $100,000 has been awarded to enrich literacy education. The foundation honors B. Michael Caudill's vision, ensuring all students have the necessary tools for success.
Literacy

Wellborn Ecology Fund- School-based Project Grants

New Hampshire Charitable Foundation
Private
Caledonia County, Vermont, Grafton County, New Hampshire +4 more
Up to US $5,000
The Wellborn Ecology Fund supports school-based projects that enhance environmental and ecological science knowledge in the Upper Valley. Established in 2013, it focuses on K-12 and early childhood education, especially in underserved communities. With over $5.5 million awarded since 2001, the fund promotes place-based ecology education, professional development for teachers, and initiatives like farm-to-school projects. This initiative aims to instill a deep understanding of local ecosystems and foster environmental stewardship among students.
Environmental Education

Equitable Sioux Empire Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Equitable Sioux Empire Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of an accredited public or private high school in the Sioux Falls area. Equitable employees, associates, immediate family members of employees, and associates of the Donor are ineligible for this award.

Education - Higher Education

Fred and Marie Christopherson Scholarship

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
Private
South Dakota
Unspecified amount

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Fred and Marie Christopherson Scholarship

Awarded to graduating seniors from South Dakota high schools. This award is renewable for up to three additional years if requirements are met and if funds are available.

Education - Higher Education

CFWT: E. Jay Matsler Trust for Historic Preservation Grant

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Hale County, Texas, Lubbock County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The E. Jay Matsler Trust for Historic Preservation Grant, established by a $348,000 bequest, supports historic preservation projects in Lubbock and Hale counties. Applicants must demonstrate the historical significance of their projects, their readiness to complete them, and the potential impact on community heritage. This grant fosters civic, cultural, and economic development by preserving historic sites listed in the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring that the region's rich history is maintained for future generations.
Historic Preservation

State Broadband Expansion Grants

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC)
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Mission Statement: The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) ensures safe, reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible utility services and equitable access to telecommunications and broadband services.

State Broadband Expansion Grants

The purpose of the Broadband Expansion Grant (BBEG) Program is to encourage the deployment of advanced telecommunications capability in unserved areas of the state. This state program was established in 2014 and follows statutory requirements set forth in Wis. Stat. § 196.504.

Successful applicants will demonstrate a clear and achievable plan to improve broadband communications services in one or more unserved areas in the state.

Computer Science & Engineering Technology Access & Digital Literacy

Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Capacity building grants help nonprofits strengthen operations, enhance staff training, and improve organizational infrastructure. These grants enable nonprofits to increase efficiency, expand their reach, and ensure long-term sustainability in achieving their mission.


Search Instrumentl's Capacity Building Grants Database


Explore 8,000+ funding opportunities for capacity building, with $3.43B available. Access private, government, and corporate grants to support your nonprofit's growth. Utilize Instrumentl’s tailored tools to track deadlines and optimize your grant strategy.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Capacity Building grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Capacity Building grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Capacity Building grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Capacity Building grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Capacity Building grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness

300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Social Justice / Human Rights

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Capacity Building grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.8%
Q2
23.8%
Q3
23.9%
Q4
22.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $34,887.

$0 $0 Min.
$34,887 $34.9 K Median
$655,609 $655.6 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits looking to grow and strengthen their organization are eligible for capacity building grants. Those working on leadership skills, technology improvements, or future planning may also apply. Capacity building grant funders support organizational growth and individual projects across many fields.

Grants for capacity building typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 29.8% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.

Capacity building grants exist to help nonprofits strengthen their organization. They support sustainable growth by providing the means to improve operations such as staff training. Capacity building grants can also increase efficiency and expand the reach of nonprofits. This support can help organizations fulfill their missions more effectively. Funders across many concentrations award grants to support organizations and individuals.

On average, grants for capacity building provide funding between $0 and $188,250,000, with typical awards falling around $34,887 (median) and $655,609 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Private foundations, good-hearted philanthropists, and some government agencies fund capacity building grants. Notable organizations are the Ford Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation.

To improve the chances of getting a capacity building grant, nonprofits should:

  • Outline growth plans – Show how the grant will help support long-term improvements.
  • Develop measurable goals – Define what you hope to achieve by receiving this grant.
  • Get leadership onboard – Prove how leaders in your organization have offered their support.

For additional guidance, explore our step-by-step guide to crafting compelling grant proposals.

Instrumentl simplifies the search for capacity building grants by providing an intuitive platform. The platform helps nonprofits find relevant opportunities and track deadlines. It also helps nonprofits manage multiple applications and refine their grant-seeking strategies. Detailed funder insights will help organizations tailor applications.

See how Lutheran Braille Workers scaled their grant submissions by 150%.