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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

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,545 Results based on applied filters

PLTW Biomedical Science - New Program (Arthur Blanchard Charitable Trust)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Massachusetts
US $15,000
The PLTW Biomedical Science initiative, backed by the Arthur Blanchard Charitable Trust, aims to broaden access to innovative STEM programs for K-12 students in Massachusetts. This program encourages schools to implement or expand their Biomedical Science offerings, enabling students to develop essential skills for future careers. By providing financial support for necessary resources, the initiative fosters a passion for STEM education and enhances enrollment in these critical fields.
STEM / STEAM Education Biomedical informatics

PLTW Biomedical Science - Program Expansion (Arthur Blanchard Charitable Trust)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Massachusetts
US $10,000
The PLTW Biomedical Science Program Expansion, supported by the Arthur Blanchard Charitable Trust, aims to enhance access to vital STEM education for K-12 students in Massachusetts. This initiative facilitates the growth of existing PLTW Biomedical Science programs by providing grants to schools, enabling them to add courses, sections, and train teachers. By fostering interest in STEM disciplines, this program strives to cultivate the skills necessary for future leaders in an evolving global economy.
Biomedical informatics STEM / STEAM Education

Alpha Eta Collaborative Research Grant

Sigma Theta Tau Intl Fo For Nursing
Private
Africa
Up to US $2,000
The Alpha Eta Collaborative Research Grant offers up to $2,000 to active Sigma members in Africa for innovative research projects. This funding, provided by the Alpha Eta Chapter, is specifically intended for new initiatives and does not cover expenses incurred prior to the funding date. Applicants must complete a research application package and agreement online, ensuring project completion within one year of receiving funds.
Nursing

Western Institute of Nursing Research Grant

Sigma Theta Tau Intl Fo For Nursing
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Western Institute of Nursing Research Grant is designed to support registered nurses in advancing nursing through research. Funded jointly by the Sigma Foundation for Nursing and WIN, this grant offers $10,000 annually for pilot or developmental research projects. Eligible applicants must hold a current nursing license, possess a doctoral degree or be enrolled in a doctoral program, and be a member of Sigma and WIN. Applications are accepted through an online submission system.
Nursing

Combined Pilot Research Grants: AAPS/PSF

Plastic Surgery Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $15,000
The Combined Pilot Research Grants by the Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF) and the American Association of Plastic Surgeons (AAPS) aim to support innovative pilot studies in hand surgery and plastic surgery. Grants of up to $10,000 are provided for projects that enhance scientific knowledge and clinical practices. Eligibility requires applicants to be MDs, DOs, or PhDs in U.S. or Canadian institutions, and membership in AAPS is encouraged to facilitate collaboration and mentorship.
Reconstructive Surgery

The LAM Foundation: Pilot and Feasibility Research Awards

The Lam Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $50,000
The LAM Foundation offers Pilot and Feasibility Research Awards aimed at fostering innovative research in lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM). These awards support hypothesis-driven studies with the potential to advance understanding and treatment options for this rare disease. Applicants can request a maximum of $50,000 for a period of up to one year. The Foundation prioritizes new researchers, encouraging fresh perspectives in LAM research to enhance patient care and ultimately achieve a future without LAM.
Respiratory Diseases & Systems

Combined Pilot Research Grants: CSPS/PSF

Plastic Surgery Foundation
Private
California
Up to US $15,000
The Combined Pilot Research Grants from the Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF) and California Society of Plastic Surgeons (CSPS) aim to fund innovative pilot research projects in hand and plastic surgery. With a budget of up to $15,000 for one year, this grant seeks to enhance scientific knowledge and clinical practices. Eligible applicants include MDs, DOs, or PhDs holding full-time positions in California, with a focus on advancing surgeon scientists and their research endeavors.
Reconstructive Surgery

Combined Pilot Research Grants: PSRC/PSF

Plastic Surgery Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $15,000
The Combined Pilot Research Grants program, supported by the Plastic Surgery Foundation and various surgical organizations, aims to promote innovative research in hand and plastic surgery. With funding of up to $10,000 for one-year pilot projects, this initiative encourages the development of surgeon scientists and seeks to enhance research funding in the field. Eligible applicants must be medical professionals holding relevant positions in U.S. or Canadian institutions.
Reconstructive Surgery

PLTW Gateway - New Program (EQT Foundation)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Fayette County, Pennsylvania, Greene County, Pennsylvania +3 more
US $10,000
The PLTW Gateway grant, funded by the EQT Foundation, supports schools in implementing PLTW Gateway programs for the upcoming academic year. Eligible applicants are public and charter schools in specific counties, including Greene County, PA, and Marshall County, WV. Grantees must offer at least one PLTW unit and complete two years of reporting. The funds cover necessary program expenses, such as training and equipment, while certain costs like meals and infrastructure improvements are unallowable.
Teacher Development & Training STEM / STEAM Education

PLTW Launch - New Program- Initiative: PLTW Grant- ( within 50 states of US)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
United States
US $4,900 - US $13,900
PLTW Launch offers a rolling grant for schools across the U.S. to implement the PLTW Launch program for the upcoming academic year. All schools, especially those serving low-income and minority populations, are encouraged to apply. The grant covers participation and training fees, with requirements to implement multiple PLTW modules over time. This initiative aims to enhance STEM education, ensuring diverse access to innovative learning opportunities.
STEM / STEAM Education Teacher Development & Training

Designated STEM School

Nevada Governor’s Office of Science, Innovation and Technology
State/Local Government
Carson City, Nevada, Churchill County, Nevada +5 more
Up to US $300,000
The Nevada Governor’s Office of Science, Innovation and Technology (OSIT) offers the Designated STEM School grant to support educators in STEM-focused schools. This funding aims to enhance professional learning and planning opportunities, helping schools align with the Nevada STEM Framework. Eligible institutions can utilize the funds for professional development, stipends for educators, and materials necessary for effective STEM instruction. This initiative fosters innovation and high-quality education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics across Nevada.
STEM / STEAM Education Teacher Development & Training

Arizona Discovery Boost Grants

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
Arizona
Up to US $297,000
The Arizona Discovery Boost Grants, in partnership with the American Cancer Society, aim to enhance cancer research in Arizona by funding innovative, high-risk projects. Grants of up to $135,000 per year for two years are available, supporting researchers focused on groundbreaking methodologies and pilot tests. This initiative not only fosters local expertise but also promotes geographic diversity in cancer research, helping to address critical questions in the field.
Cancer / Oncology

Mission Boost Grants (MBG)

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $100,000 - US $500,000
The Mission Boost Grants (MBG) by the American Cancer Society aim to enhance cancer research by funding projects that translate into human testing. These grants support investigators at all levels, offering resources for innovative clinical projects. The program consists of two funding stages: Stage I focuses on developing clear milestones for new treatments, while Stage II supports patient testing, ultimately contributing to advancements in cancer care and treatment.
Cancer / Oncology

Mentored Research Grants- Postdoctoral Fellowships (PF)

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The American Cancer Society's Mentored Research Grants for Postdoctoral Fellowships (PF) aim to support emerging researchers in their training programs, fostering their transition to independent cancer research careers. Eligible candidates include US citizens or non-citizens with valid visas who have completed their doctoral degrees within the last four years. The fellowship offers funding for up to three years, with stipends of $66,000 to $70,000 annually, alongside allowances for health insurance and professional development.
Cancer / Oncology

Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG)- Winter Cycle

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $405,000 - US $675,000
The Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG) by the American Cancer Society supports full-time faculty aiming to become independent clinician scientists while maintaining clinical practice. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree, an active clinical license, and have clinical care experience. The grant provides funding of $135,000 annually for 3 to 5 years, including allowable indirect costs, to advance cancer research in key priority areas.
Cancer / Oncology

ASTRO-ACS Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG)

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $405,000 - US $675,000
The American Cancer Society (ACS) and the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) co-fund the Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG), aimed at advancing the research careers of clinician scientists in radiation oncology. Eligible applicants are full-time faculty members at U.S. institutions with a doctoral degree and an active clinical license. The grant supports research for 3 to 5 years, providing $135,000 annually for direct costs, plus allowable indirect costs, while encouraging diversity in applications.
Cancer / Oncology

Institutional Research Grants (IRG)

American Cancer Society
Association/Society
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $360,000
The Institutional Research Grants (IRG) program by the American Cancer Society provides essential seed funding for newly independent investigators to launch cancer research projects. Aimed at junior faculty, these grants offer $120,000 annually for three years, supporting the development of preliminary results necessary for competing for larger national grants. Eligible applicants must be at US academic institutions and hold the rank of Associate or Full Professor, with a proven track record in research and mentorship.
Cancer / Oncology

PLTW Launch - Program Expansion (Burns and McDonnell)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Adams County, Colorado, Alamance County, North Carolina +300 more
US $5,000
The PLTW Launch program, in collaboration with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by expanding access to innovative educational modules in eligible schools. This initiative supports public and charter schools in targeted counties, focusing on increasing student engagement in STEM fields. Through grant funding, participating schools can introduce new PLTW Launch modules and provide essential training for teachers, fostering a richer learning environment to prepare students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Teacher Development & Training STEM / STEAM Education

PLTW Gateway - New Program (Chevron Louisiana)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Lafayette Parish, Louisiana, Lafourche Parish, Louisiana +3 more
US $15,000
The PLTW Gateway grant, funded by Chevron, aims to enhance educational opportunities for K-12 students in Louisiana. This initiative supports the implementation of Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs in local schools, promoting STEM education. Since 2009, Chevron has invested over $17 million in PLTW, impacting nearly 250,000 students and over 8,100 teachers nationwide. The grant enables schools to offer PLTW Gateway units, fostering innovative learning experiences for the next academic year.
Teacher Development & Training Education - K through 12

PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion (Chevron Louisiana)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Lafayette Parish, Louisiana, Lafourche Parish, Louisiana +3 more
US $5,000
The PLTW Gateway grant, supported by Chevron, aims to enhance educational experiences in Louisiana by expanding Project Lead The Way programs. With over $17 million invested since 2009, this initiative has transformed education for nearly 250,000 students. The grant will facilitate the addition of new PLTW units, training for more teachers, and overall program growth, ensuring that students receive quality STEM education and preparation for future careers.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

PLTW Gateway - New Program (Chevron Mississippi)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
George County, Mississippi, Jackson County, Mississippi
US $10,000
Chevron has committed funds to support PLTW Gateway programs in Mississippi, aiming to enhance K-12 educational experiences. Since 2009, over $24 million has been invested nationally, benefiting over 411,000 students and 9,500 teachers. This initiative encourages public and charter schools to implement PLTW units, promoting hands-on learning in STEM fields. Eligible districts include Moss Point, George County, and others, ensuring local schools receive the resources needed for transformative education.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion (Chevron Mississippi)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
George County, Mississippi, Jackson County, Mississippi
US $5,000
Chevron is investing in the expansion of the PLTW Gateway program in Mississippi, which has already benefitted over 411,000 students and 9,500 teachers since 2009. With over $24 million in funding, this initiative aims to enhance STEM education through additional units and training opportunities for educators. Schools in several districts, including Moss Point and Ocean Springs, are eligible for this funding, which supports transformative educational experiences for K-12 students.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

Dermatology Foundation: Research Grant

Dermatology Foundation
Private
United States
US $25,000
The Dermatology Foundation offers a Research Grant of $25,000 annually to support innovative projects in dermatology and cutaneous biology. This funding is aimed at junior investigators in the early stages of their academic careers who demonstrate a strong commitment to skin research. Eligible applicants must conduct research within ACGME-approved departments in the U.S. and must not have received funding from other sources for the same project.
Skin Diseases & Dermatology

Minnesota Racial Equity Fund Grant

H.B. Fuller Company Foundation
Private
Hennepin County, Minnesota, Ramsey County, Minnesota
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Minnesota Racial Equity Fund Grant aims to foster lasting change by supporting organizations in the Twin Cities that address historic systemic racism affecting communities of color. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, focusing on employment, education, and community safety. Only tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations in Hennepin and Ramsey counties are eligible. This initiative is part of H.B. Fuller Company Foundation's commitment to racial equity and community empowerment.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights

Grants for Aquatic Center Education Program

California Department of Parks and Recreation
State/Local Government
Alameda County, California, Butte County, California +21 more
Up to US $6,200
The Grants for Aquatic Center Education Program aims to enhance boating safety education in California by providing funding to non-profit organizations, colleges, and local agencies. The grants support on-the-water training, covering essential topics such as boating laws and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to safe boating practices and have qualified staff. This initiative promotes public access to waterways while ensuring a safer recreational boating environment.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

Cognitive Neuroscience

National Science Foundation (NSF)
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The Cognitive Neuroscience (CogNeuro) Program by the National Science Foundation aims to fund proposals that deepen our understanding of the neural mechanisms of cognition and behavior. Successful applications will connect physiology, cognition, and behavior while also promoting outreach and mentoring within the field. Research topics include action, perception, memory, and decision-making. The program encourages broader impacts such as STEM outreach and public engagement in research, with a focus on diverse communities.
Neuroscience

Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance: Floating Restroom Grant Program

California Department of Parks and Recreation
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Floating Restroom Grant Program, coordinated by the California Department of Boating and Waterways, aims to enhance recreational boating by providing floating restroom units at lakes and reservoirs statewide. This initiative, rooted in the Clean Vessel Act, ensures the preservation of water quality by preventing sewage discharge. Eligible government entities can access funding for the development and maintenance of these restrooms, which must be kept operational for at least ten years, thus supporting both public health and environmental integrity.
Recreational Water Use & Boating

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 $3.34B 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

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Poverty Alleviation & Services

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

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
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 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 29.7% 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 $32,500 (median) and $633,837 (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%.