As a nonprofit, you rely on grants to keep your programs running. Grants fund your mission, expand existing programs, and launch new initiatives. Grant writing for nonprofits isn’t optional. It’s a core part of running a successful nonprofit.
Looking for the best grant opportunities?
Whether you serve as a board administrator or another member of the nonprofit team, explore these programs and funding sources to help your finance committee reach its financial goals.
Key Types of Nonprofit Grant Opportunities
Understanding the various types of nonprofit grant opportunities can help you select the nonprofit fundraising ideas and solutions that best fit your goals, your mission, and your future plans. It also streamlines the application process.
1. General Operating (Unrestricted) Grants
General operating grants, also known as unrestricted grants, provide funding to nonprofits for operating expenses, including staff salaries, rent, utilities, technology needs, and any administrative costs. These are highly flexible grants, which means they make it easier for nonprofits to direct funds where they need them.
2. Capacity-Building or Infrastructure Grants
Capacity-building grants are intended to support an organization’s internal systems and processes. They help organizations build the infrastructure they need to support their cause. They can help with staff training, technology upgrades, or creating or advancing new fundraising programs.
Infrastructure grants are best for organizations that are looking to stabilize their internal functionality or grow their outreach efforts. They can help with improvements to the organization as a whole, but are not intended to help with the organization’s mission-specific purpose.
3. Project-Specific Grants
Project-specific grants are intended to help nonprofits and other organizations meet specific goals, often within a set timeline. They are typically used for things like:
- Research and studies
- Infrastructure developments
- Specific community programs
Funds from project-specific grants support a defined project or initiative within your organization. These grants typically come with a set timeline, and once that period ends, your nonprofit must seek new funding opportunities. Project-specific grants work best when you have a short-term internal or external initiative that needs targeted funding.
4. Large Open-Call Grants
Large open-call grants provide substantial award amounts, usually for large-scale projects and initiatives. They can help nonprofits launch new programs or cover major expenses. Because these grants are open to a wide range of organizations, not just a narrow group, they create more opportunities to compete for funding.
Nonprofits benefit most from large open-call grants when they need targeted support for specific projects or infrastructure improvements.
5. Government Grants
Government grants are publicly funded and awarded at the local, state, or federal level. They typically support programs that align with government priorities, such as community development projects. These grants are highly competitive and demand strong transparency.
Nonprofits should pursue government grants when their projects support government objectives. Pay close attention to the requirements to ensure your organization can meet them and achieve its goals.
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Examples of Noteworthy Grant Programs
The following grant programs are known for helping nonprofits accomplish their goals.
- Spectrum’s Digital Education Grants: Spectrum’s grants are intended to fund community efforts that increase access to digital tools and education opportunities. Since its launch in 2017, Spectrum Digital Education has committed more than $11 million in grant funds to 204 community-based nonprofits.
- Patchwork Collective’s Youth-Led Climate Group Grants: Patchwork Collective provides $1 million multi-year grants to organizations led by 15- to 35-year-olds who are focused on climate initiatives.
- The Courage Project’s Civic Bravery Grants: Grants of up to $50,000 are provided in recognition of nonprofits and individuals that stand up for their communities, often in a way that represents bravery and commitment to those local needs.
These grant programs are just a few of the many options available that can help nonprofits accomplish their fundraising goals.
Introducing OnBoard AI
OnBoard AI is an automated board management software for nonprofits. It simplifies essential tasks like preparing board meeting agendas, recording minutes, and enabling tools such as voting, surveys, and eSignatures.
With OnBoard, you also gain access to a comprehensive governance library filled with nonprofit-specific resources, tailored tools, and enhanced collaboration features. Whether you need guidance on maintaining 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or support for your nonprofit treasurer’s decision-making, OnBoard helps your board stay effective and compliant.
OnBoard Supports Effective Nonprofit Boards
OnBoard equips board administrators with everything they need to keep their nonprofit on-track. The platform streamlines meeting operations, strengthens board decision-making, and improves communication and engagement across your organization.
Before each meeting, OnBoard centralizes communication tools and securely stores the documents your members need. As the meeting approaches, it builds detailed agendas that keep discussions focused and aligned with your mission and goals.
During meetings, OnBoard provides instant access to critical governance information and AI-powered decision-making support. It automatically records minutes, ensuring an accurate record without adding work to your board members’ plates.
Ready to get started? Request your free trial today, or reach out to learn how OnBoard can help your nonprofit achieve its goals.
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About The Author
- Gina Guy is an implementation consultant who specializes in working with nonprofit organizations get the most from their board meetings. She loves helping customers ease their workloads through their use of OnBoard. A Purdue University graduate, Gina enjoys refinishing furniture, running, kayaking, and traveling in her spare time. She lives in Monticello, Indiana, with her husband.
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