Summary
The Capacity Building Grant Program is an annual program of the Funders Network. It supports nonprofit organizations and local governments working at the intersection of natural resource protection and community well‑being across the watershed. Capacity building refers to work that strengthens how organizations function. When organizations are healthy, they are better equipped to sustain their missions and contribute meaningfully to environmental and community outcomes. Awards may strengthen an applicant's internal capacity or, for Movement Building and Local Government applicants, support efforts that extend knowledge, tools, or infrastructure beyond the applicant organization. In this program, capacity‑building projects focus on strengthening the systems, structures, and practices that support long‑term organizational or governmental effectiveness. This includes work related to governance, operations, planning, coordination, or other core functions that help applicants use existing staff and resources more effectively. Capacity Building grants do not provide general operating support, but funds may be used for staff time that is directly dedicated to carrying out the proposed capacity‑building work.