The Nelson Foundation Staff Capacity Building Grant program will support the addition of new or the growth of existing staff position(s) at partner organizations who are current core grantees. Whether the proposed position is a new role or the extension of a current position, organizations may consider internal or external candidates, and must have a demonstrated commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging practices in the workplace. Grant funds may be used for salary and other salary-related expenses (e.g. benefits, technology, professional development) related to the expansion of staff capacity.
With applications opening in 2025, the Foundation will award one three-year capacity building grant annually.
All current grantee partners (organizations within a three-year grant term for the core grant program) are eligible to apply for this grant program. Grantee organizations must have demonstrated commitment to cultivating diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace and to establishing strategies for staff growth, development, and succession.
- All current grantee partners will be invited to submit an LOI. Each LOI will be reviewed and scored, then staff will invite several applications for review and approval by the Board of Directors.
- Each three-year grant award will be $150,000 (payable in annual installments of $70k, $50k, $30k)
- Timeline:
o June 1 – August 15 – Current grantee partners can submit LOIs
o August 15- September 15 – Staff and board committee review LOIs
o September 15 – two to three organizations invited to complete full applications
o October 30 – full applications due
o December board meeting – Board discusses and approves one request
o January 2026 – first installment of grant paid
The Nelson Foundation will consider the following when evaluating applications:
o Potential for lasting impact on the capacity of the organization and its ability to fulfill its mission in the community
o Strength of leadership at staff and board levels
o Level of demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion in the workplace
o Evidence of organizational culture that supports staff learning, growth, and development