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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.

33,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,595 Results based on applied filters

ISF Impact Campaign Grant

Islamic Scholarship Fund
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $5,000
The ISF Impact Campaign Grant supports completed short or feature-length films that aim to create a positive societal impact through outreach and community engagement. This grant is available to all filmmakers, focusing on projects that depict American Muslim narratives. Recipients will receive funding along with mentorship to enhance their impact campaigns, which must include a comprehensive proposal detailing goals and success metrics.
Social Justice / Human Rights Film Documentaries +1 more

ISF Documentary Film Grant

Islamic Scholarship Fund
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $20,000
The ISF Documentary Film Grant supports emerging Muslim filmmakers creating impactful narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. Established in 2014, this grant has allocated $625,000 to over 111 filmmakers, focusing on projects in production or post-production. It offers funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities, emphasizing journalistic integrity and originality. Eligible projects must depict American Muslim themes and be consistent with ISF's mission of using art to influence public policy and opinion.
Social Justice / Human Rights Film Documentaries +1 more

ISF Social Justice Short Film Grant

Islamic Scholarship Fund
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $10,000
The ISF Social Justice Short Film Grant supports emerging Muslim filmmakers in creating impactful short narrative or documentary films that address social justice issues. Launched in 2014 by the Islamic Scholarship Fund, this program aims to raise awareness and provoke dialogue about inequality and oppression. With a total of $625,000 awarded, the grant offers funding along with mentorship and networking opportunities to enhance storytelling and community impact.
Social Justice / Human Rights Film Documentaries +1 more

Reinberger Foundation: Arts, Culture & Humanities Grants

Reinberger Foundation
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Franklin County, Ohio +5 more
Unspecified amount
The Reinberger Foundation, established in 1966, aims to empower individuals towards self-sufficiency while enriching communities in Ohio. The foundation focuses on supporting organizations in areas such as arts, culture, and humanities, including museums, visual and performing arts, and arts education. Priority is given to past grantees and organizations within the greater Cleveland and Columbus areas. For new applicants, discussions prior to application are encouraged to align missions effectively.
Museums & Cultural Institutions Visual Arts Performing Arts +4 more

Embraer Foundation: (e)NVEST Community Grant

Embraer Foundation Inc
Private
Bibb County, Georgia, Brevard County, Florida +12 more
Up to US $25,000
The Embraer Foundation's (e)NVEST Community Grant program supports local initiatives addressing critical community needs in areas such as education, housing, food insecurity, and workforce development. With grants of up to $25,000 available, the program aims to create a positive impact in communities surrounding Embraer's facilities. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities that have been active for over a year, focusing on sustainable development goals aligned with the United Nations.
Education Real Estate & Housing Food Access & Hunger +1 more

Scioto Foundation Regular Grant

The Scioto Foundation
Private
Scioto County, Ohio
Unspecified amount

Scioto Foundation

The Scioto Foundation is a community foundation serving the people of the Scioto County area. Since 1975, SF has awarded approximately $30 million in grants and distributions to local non-profit organizations, schools, and local governments. 

Regular Grant 

Typically, the Foundation funds projects in the following areas: education, healthcare, community development, economic development, arts and culture, social services, and civic benefit.

  • The Foundation is interested in those organizations that can demonstrate they have planned their projects in light of overall community needs. Similar projects by other organizations should not duplicate the proposed services.
  • The Foundation will look favorably at those projects that promise to affect a broad segment of the population of the Scioto County area or that tend to help a segment of the citizenry not being adequately served by other resources in the community.
  • The Scioto Foundation is especially interested in supplying the “seed money” for new and dynamic projects. Grants will be made to existing groups moving in new directions or to new organizations.
  • As a rule, the Scioto Foundation prefers projects that occur in a one-year time frame.

The board will review applications for the regular grant rounds quarterly.

Educational Access & Equity Economic Services & Development Community Development & Revitalization +4 more

The Gerald W. G. Kwock Charitable Foundation

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Approximately US $6,000
The Gerald W. G. Kwock Charitable Foundation, established in 2015, provides scholarships for O'ahu high school seniors attending public or private schools. Awards range, typically around $6,000, depending on fund size and applicant qualifications. Eligible students must reside in Hawaii, demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA, and be full-time students at any University of Hawaii institution. Preference is given to previous recipients and those majoring in Journalism, English, or Communications.
Education - Higher Education Linguistics Writing & Literature +3 more

Carolyn Jane Scott Charitable Trust Grant

The Carolyn Jane Scott Charitable Trust
Private
New Jersey
US $15,000 - US $25,000
The Carolyn Jane Scott Charitable Trust, managed by Wells Fargo Bank, supports 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in New Jersey. It funds a variety of areas including education, health, and the arts, with grants typically ranging from $15,000 to $25,000. The Trust prioritizes requests that demonstrate community need and administrative stability, while excluding individuals and for-profit entities. Its mission embodies a commitment to charitable, scientific, literary, and educational purposes.
Art & Culture Education Animal Welfare - General +7 more

Richard L. and Freda K. Flerlage Foundation Grant

The Richard L And K Flerlage Fnd Inc
Private
Countries
Approximately US $3,800

The Richard L and Freda K Flerlage Foundation

Our Mission

Working to empower underserved populations through small grants in support of literacy, healthcare, reduction of poverty, and the promotion of social and environmental justice.

We are a small family foundation, when possible we aim to support organizations with relatively small operating funds where our small grants will have their greatest possible impact.

Our average grant is $3,800.

Social Justice / Human Rights Environmental Justice & Advocacy Poverty Alleviation & Services +2 more

Thriving Communities Grants: Community Development

The New York Community Trust
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
US $5,000 - US $200,000
The Thriving Communities Grants program by The New York Community Trust focuses on community development initiatives. It supports non-profits that enhance affordable housing, promote job creation, and strengthen civic engagement in low-income neighborhoods. With ongoing proposals accepted, this grant aims to empower organizations dedicated to building equitable communities through innovative strategies and effective practices that foster economic opportunities and protect the environment.
Economic Services & Development Real Estate & Housing Employment Services +3 more

Foundation of the Federal Bar Association: Pathways to the Profession Grant

Foundation Of The Federal Bar Association
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000

Foundation of the Federal Bar Association

The Foundation of the Federal Bar Association provides the best way for practitioners to give back to the Federal legal community. Chartered by Congress in 1954, the Foundation serves people in communities across the United States through its generous grants, scholarships, and programming.

Our Mission: The Foundation’s mission is to:

  • Promote and support legal research and education;
  • Advance the science of jurisprudence;
  • Facilitate the administration of justice;
  • Foster improvements in the practice of Federal law

Foundation Grants

Foundation grants support community service projects and civics programs which comply with the Foundation’s mission to promote and support legal research and education; advance the science of jurisprudence; facilitate the administration of justice; and foster improvements in the practice of Federal law.

Pathways to the Profession Grant

The Pathways to the Profession Grant Program is designed to support educational, community service, or outreach projects and initiatives that support pathway programs and events that encourage high school, college and law school students, and newer lawyers, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to pursue and succeed in a legal career through educational, networking, mentorship programs and other opportunities. Through targeted funding, the program empowers FBA chapters, sections, divisions, national standing committees (FBA entity) and other organizations to develop and support projects that make a lasting impact on their communities.

Applicants may only receive one (1) Foundation grant per year.

Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Community Services Civic Leadership Development +2 more

Frankenthaler Climate Initiative- Implementation Grants

Helen Frankenthaler Foundation Inc
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $100,000
The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative offers implementation grants aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in visual arts museums, addressing climate change through innovative projects. With deadlines extended for those affected by the LA Fires, eligible institutions can apply for funding ranging from $50,000 to $100,000. This initiative supports museums of all sizes, helping them reduce emissions and operational costs while promoting sustainable practices in the arts sector.
Climate Change Resilience & Equity Renewable/Sustainable Energy Museums & Cultural Institutions +2 more

Frankenthaler Climate Initiative: Scoping Grants

Helen Frankenthaler Foundation Inc
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $25,000
The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative provides funding for energy efficiency projects in visual arts museums, addressing climate change through innovative cultural leadership. Grants up to $25,000 support institutions in evaluating energy mitigation opportunities, enhancing efficiency, and reducing emissions. Eligible applicants include museums and visual arts schools across the U.S. The initiative encourages sustainable practices while assisting organizations in understanding their energy needs and planning for effective interventions within a project timeline of 18 months.
Climate Change Resilience & Equity Renewable/Sustainable Energy Museums & Cultural Institutions +2 more

Booth Ferris Foundation: Strengthening NYC Grant Program

Booth Ferris Foundation
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Booth Ferris Foundation, established in 1957, offers grants through its Strengthening NYC Grant Program. This initiative aims to support organizations that promote equity and build vibrant communities in New York City. Eligible entities must demonstrate a strong track record and focus on capacity building to address systemic inequities. The Foundation provides funding for projects that enhance nonprofit infrastructure and sustainability, helping organizations achieve long-term impact in their communities.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy Human & Social Services Community Development & Revitalization +6 more

New Era Cap Foundation Impact Grants

New Era Cap Foundation
Association/Society
Erie County, New York
Unspecified amount
The New Era Cap Foundation Impact Grants aim to support nonprofit organizations in Western New York and beyond, focusing on five key areas: Cancer Patient & Family Care, Veterans & First Responders, Women Empowerment, Youth Sports, and Arts & Education. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) charities, while religious organizations for non-secular purposes and individual youth sports teams are ineligible. This initiative encourages impactful community engagement and fosters positive change.
Cancer / Oncology Family Services Military & Veterans Services +4 more

WorKS: Kansas Public Broadcasting Content Grant

Kansas Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Kansas
US $10,000 - US $100,000

WorKS: Kansas Public Broadcasting Content Grant

This program aims to increase awareness of workforce development tools, strengthen digital literacy, and celebrate the potential of innovation across Kansas’ rural regions.

The WorKS funding was created by the legislature in 2025 in the State budget bill SB 125. The goal of this program is to provide public broadcasting stations funding to produce original, educational content highlighting rural workforce opportunities, remote work readiness, and emerging technologies that can transform how Kansans live and work in rural communities. 

Funding Amount

  • Total Funding Available: $500,000
  • Minimum Award Amount: $10,000
  • Max Award Amount: $100,000
  • Match Amount: In-Kind allowed. Match encouraged, but not required
Radio Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Technology Access & Digital Literacy +1 more

Michael Gregory Boyd Scholarship

The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Michael Gregory Boyd Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, supports high school seniors from Troy-area schools who aim to pursue higher education. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to community service and belong to the African American or African descent groups. This scholarship opens doors for students seeking 2- or 4-year college programs or technical training, fostering educational growth and community involvement.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education +3 more

Charitable work in the County of Sussex Grants (UK only) - Large Grant

Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust
Private
United Kingdom
More than £20,001
The Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust offers large grants for charitable work in Sussex, focusing on areas such as elderly care, disability, general welfare, hospices, and youth support. Established in 1963, the Trust aims to support charities that have a strong connection with the community. Applications are accepted twice a year, with a review period of 12-15 weeks. Only UK-based charities are eligible, and funding can cover startup costs, core expenses, and specific projects.
Disability Care & Services Senior Services Hospice / End of Life Care +4 more

Charitable work in the County of Sussex Grants (UK only) - Medium Grant

Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust
Private
United Kingdom
£10,001 - £20,000
The Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust offers Medium Grants ranging from £10,001 to £20,000 to UK-based charities focused on charitable work in Sussex. Founded in 1963, the Trust emphasizes wildlife conservation and youth enterprise. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and funding can support start-up costs, core operations, or specific projects. Eligible charities must operate within defined areas, including care for the elderly and disability support, while larger charities and those not registered in the UK are typically excluded.
Disability Care & Services Senior Services Hospice / End of Life Care +4 more

Community Development Block Grant: Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) — Oklahoma

Oklahoma Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Carter County, Oklahoma, McClain County, Oklahoma +2 more
Unspecified amount

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Community Development Block Grant Programs

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program enables rural Oklahoma communities to finance a variety of public infrastructure and economic improvements and helps promote job growth as a result of these improvements. CDBG funds are provided by the federal government (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help ensure Oklahoma’s most critical needs are addressed.

CDBG Disaster Recovery Program (CDBG-DR)

The Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program (CDBG-DR 2023/2024) grants are intended to support communities affected by the DR-4706 and DR-4776 disasters. Eligible counties are Carter, McClain, Murray, and Osage County. 

Introduction

On behalf of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce Community Development Division (ODOC/CD), we appreciate the opportunity to partner with eligible communities and applicants as recovery and rebuilding efforts continue following recent federally declared disasters. The CDBG-DR program is intended to support long-term recovery, infrastructure restoration, housing stabilization, and community resiliency in accordance with federal disaster recovery requirements established by HUD.

Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Public Infrastructure Community Development & Revitalization +1 more

Chicago Commitment: Civic Partnerships

John D and Catherine T MacArthur Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Chicago Commitment: Civic Partnerships aims to foster a more equitable city by supporting local organizations and partnerships that address systemic racism and promote racial equity. With an emphasis on inclusive actions, the initiative focuses on community-driven solutions to pressing challenges. By investing in diverse voices and creative sectors, the foundation seeks to uplift marginalized communities and create a resilient environment where all Chicagoans can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Social Justice / Human Rights Community / Public Safety +4 more

Community Connections Grant (previously Community Action Project Grant)

City of Hampton
State/Local Government
Hampton City, Virginia
Up to US $4,000
The Community Connections Grant, formerly known as the Community Action Project Grant, provides funding of up to $4,000 for grassroots initiatives aimed at enhancing neighborhood quality of life in Hampton. This program encourages collaboration among local organizations to foster community engagement, safety, and cultural development. Eligible projects may include public safety education, organizational development, and recreational or cultural events, making it a vital resource for community-driven improvements.
Community / Public Safety Disaster Preparedness Firefighting & Fire Prevention +3 more

Hench Post-Dissertation Fellowship

American Antiquarian Society
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
Up to US $44,000
The Hench Post-Dissertation Fellowship, offered by the American Antiquarian Society, provides a unique opportunity for scholars to refine their dissertations for publication. This prestigious fellowship includes a $40,000 stipend and up to $4,000 for health insurance. Applicants must be within three years of earning their doctorate and focus on topics relevant to American history and culture through 1900. The program fosters collaboration and feedback from leading scholars, enhancing the academic community in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Music Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature +3 more

Kate B. and Hall J. Peterson Fellowships

American Antiquarian Society
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
US $2,000 - US $4,000
The Kate B. and Hall J. Peterson Fellowships, offered by the American Antiquarian Society, support scholarly research in any field related to American history and culture up to 1876. Each fellowship provides a stipend of $2,000 per month for a term of one to two months between June 1 and May 31. Preference is given to applicants who haven’t received long-term fellowships in the past three years, and eligibility extends to postdoctoral scholars and graduate students.
Music Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature +3 more

AAS-American Society for Eighteenth-Century Studies Fellowships

American Antiquarian Society
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The AAS-American Society for Eighteenth-Century Studies Fellowships support research projects on the American eighteenth century. Funded by the American Society for Eighteenth-Century Studies and the American Antiquarian Society, these fellowships offer a stipend of $2,200 per month for one to two months of research between June 1 and May 31. Eligibility includes postdoctoral scholars and foreign nationals residing in the U.S. for three years prior to application.
Music Writing & Literature Political Science +3 more

Alstott Morgan Fellowship

American Antiquarian Society
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
US $2,200 - US $4,400
The Alstott Morgan Fellowship, offered by the American Antiquarian Society, supports research on 19th-century American education. It provides a stipend of $2,200 per month for a term of one to two months, available from June 1 to May 31. Eligible candidates include postdoctoral scholars and graduate students engaged in scholarly research across various fields related to American history and culture up to 1900. Preference is given to those without long-term fellowships in the preceding three years.
Music Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature +3 more

American Historical Print Collectors Society Fellowship

American Antiquarian Society
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
US $2,000 - US $4,000
The American Historical Print Collectors Society Fellowship supports research on American prints from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Funded jointly by the American Historical Print Collectors Society and the American Antiquarian Society, this fellowship offers a stipend of $2,000 per month for one to two months of research. Eligible applicants include postdoctoral scholars and graduate students from various humanities fields. Preference is given to those who have not held long-term fellowships recently.
Music Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature +3 more

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.

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%.