City and County of Denver Nonprofit Capacity Building Fund

The Nonprofit Capacity Building Fund from the City and County of Denver is administered by The Denver Foundation in partnership with Denver Economic Development and Opportunity through its Division of Neighborhood Equity and Stabilization. This program is designed to strengthen nonprofit organizations operating within targeted Denver neighborhoods by improving their internal capacity, organizational effectiveness, and ability to engage communities. The fund reflects a broader municipal strategy to promote equitable economic development, neighborhood stability, and civic participation across historically underserved areas. The primary purpose of this grant program is to enhance the operational and strategic capabilities of nonprofit organizations that serve designated priority neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are identified by the Division of Neighborhood Equity and Stabilization and include areas such as Athmar Park, Globeville, Montbello, Sun Valley, and Westwood, among others. By investing in capacity building, the program aims to support nonprofits in strengthening governance, improving systems, and advancing community-driven initiatives that build long-term resilience and collaboration. Funding is intended for projects that improve organizational infrastructure and effectiveness rather than direct service delivery. Eligible uses include communications and information management systems, evaluation tool development, fundraising strategy development, governance and board development, policy and advocacy work, resident engagement and organizing, scenario planning, and strategic or operational planning. Funds may not be used for activities such as food costs, travel, events, scholarships, political or religious activities, or retroactive expenses. Organizations must also ensure that all proposed work can be completed within the defined project period, as extensions are not permitted. Eligibility is limited to organizations that are recognized as 501c3 nonprofits or those operating under a qualified 501c3 fiscal sponsor. Applicants must either be located within or actively serve the specified priority neighborhoods. Organizations must also demonstrate financial stability, as those with negative fund balances in their most recent fiscal year are not eligible. Additionally, applicants must submit a scope of work developed in collaboration with a consultant, indicating that funded activities are expected to involve external expertise and structured planning processes. The application process requires organizations to register on The Denver Foundation grant portal and submit a complete online application, including the required scope of work document. While specific evaluation criteria are not explicitly detailed, the program emphasizes alignment with neighborhood priorities, organizational readiness, and the feasibility of completing proposed activities within the required timeframe. The funder also notes that prior funding does not guarantee future awards, reinforcing a competitive selection process. The application timeline for this funding cycle opened on August 25, 2025, and closed on September 8, 2025. All funded projects must be fully implemented and completed by November 28, 2025, including all deliverables and expenditures. The program anticipates awarding between five and fifteen grants, with individual awards ranging from 2000 to 20000 dollars. For inquiries, applicants may contact the program via the provided email address, and additional guidance is available through the foundation’s grant FAQs. While recurrence is not explicitly stated, the reference to previous funding years suggests the possibility of periodic offerings.