Kauffman Foundation – Capacity Building Grants

Kauffman Foundation – Capacity Building Grants is sponsored by Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Capacity Building grants are designed to strengthen the organizational capacity of 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations by fostering sound leadership, strong boards, professional development for staff, technology, evaluation, strategic planning, communications, and sustainability.

What are Capacity Building grants? Capacity Building grants support an organization’s internal effectiveness, long-term sustainability, and ability to advance its mission. These one-time investments help organizations strengthen the people, systems, strategies, and infrastructure needed to achieve greater impact over time.

These grants are intended for organizations that can clearly identify a specific organizational need and demonstrate how addressing that need will strengthen their work in alignment with the Foundation’s strategic priorities . Funding amount: one-time, $100,000 – $250,000 Preview the application [PDF] and eligibility quiz [PDF] > July 13 – August 13, 2026 What makes a strong Capacity Building proposal?

Strong proposals clearly explain: The organizational capacity need that the grant will address. Why this investment is especially important at this stage of the organization’s development. Why a one-time investment is appropriate, or how the benefits of the investment will be sustained beyond the grant period.

How the proposed work will be implemented, including key activities and expected organizational outcomes. How strengthening this area of capacity will improve the organization’s effectiveness, resilience, and long-term impact. How the proposed investment supports the Foundation’s strategic priorities.

Applicants should write with the understanding that reviewers may be learning about their organization for the first time. Clearly describing your mission, impact, and the connection between your work and the proposed investment helps reviewers understand your application. Hear about the latest round of Capacity Building grant funding from Kauffman Foundation Chief Impact and Strategy Officer, Allison Greenwood.

Examples of Capacity Building grants The following list provides examples of broad categories and specific organizational needs that may be eligible for Capacity Building grants. This list is not meant to be exhaustive, and other capacity needs may qualify for these funds. There is no preferred type of capacity building investment.

Organizations are encouraged to identify the capacity need that will have the greatest impact on their long-term effectiveness.

Staffing, Leadership, and Culture Strengthening an organization’s people, leadership, board, and overall workplace environment Financial Health and Flexible Funding Building financial stability through fundraising, business model planning, and flexible support Internal Systems and Operations Improving day-to-day operations, including administrative infrastructure, support for shared service models, AI innovation, and technology upgrades Using data more effectively to support learning, decision making, and performance Clarifying your organization’s priorities, plans, and long-term direction Program Enhancement and Innovation Supporting time-bound projects, pilot efforts, or emerging opportunities that help your organization test new ideas, adapt to changing conditions, or respond to strategic community needs through expansion of public-facing programs and services Communications, Partnerships, and Engagement Strengthening outreach, collaboration with nonprofit, civic, or business partners, and/or efforts to educate the public about current systems-level issues.

Please note: The Foundation does not fund lobbying. It can fund strategic advocacy, education, and other policy engagement activities that do not constitute lobbying . Explore our list of previously funded Capacity Building grantees below or visit our Grants Database .