WCCF Capacity-Building Grants

The Washington County Community Foundation (WCCF) offers Capacity-Building Grants to support nonprofit organizations that provide charitable services in Washington County. The foundation's mission is to improve the quality of life in the community by promoting and facilitating charitable giving and strengthening the capacity of local nonprofits. Through its grant programs, WCCF seeks to empower organizations to grow in their operational and organizational effectiveness. The Capacity-Building Grants are intended for projects that enhance a nonprofit's ability to function more effectively and sustainably. These grants support initiatives that improve operational, programmatic, financial, or organizational maturity. Organizations can apply for one project at a time and must wait at least one year after receiving a grant before reapplying. Importantly, applicants must fully utilize the funds from any previous grant before submitting a new request. Acceptable uses of grant funds include improvements to accounting systems, development of communication strategies, data management systems, equipment purchases, near-completion capital campaigns, property facility upgrades, strategic and succession planning, and new or expanded program development. Current funding priorities include accounting/financial systems and communication-related improvements such as websites and marketing materials. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000. Leasehold improvements and routine or general operational requests are not eligible. The foundation also excludes applications from private foundations and individuals. The application process follows a two-phase structure. In Phase I, applicants provide a general overview of their proposed project. Selected applicants are invited to submit a detailed full proposal in Phase II. The full proposal must articulate the project’s need, intended beneficiaries, goals, measurable outcomes, and execution plan. It also requires a comprehensive budget showing all projected revenues and expenses, not limited to the requested amount. Two application cycles are available annually. Cycle I opens on February 1 and has an application deadline of April 1, with full proposals due by May 1. Cycle II opens on August 1 and closes on October 1, with full proposals due by November 1. The grant process is not rolling and requires adherence to the specified cycles. Applicants can contact the foundation for more details or assistance at [email protected] or by phone at 724-222-6330 during regular business hours from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.