Capital Requests Grant

The Champlin Foundation is a private philanthropic organization based in Rhode Island that has provided substantial capital funding to nonprofit organizations since its establishment in 1932. The foundation focuses exclusively on capital projects that strengthen the long-term capacity of organizations serving the state. Its funding spans multiple sectors, including arts and culture, education, healthcare, conservation, libraries, historic preservation, social services, animal welfare, and youth services. Over time, the foundation has awarded hundreds of millions of dollars to improve facilities, equipment, and infrastructure for nonprofit entities operating within Rhode Island. The Capital Requests Cycle Two grant program is one of the foundation’s structured funding opportunities designed specifically for organizations that either are required to apply in this cycle or choose to do so based on eligibility guidelines. This cycle explicitly includes Houses of Worship and Traditional Public Schools, which are directed to submit applications during this period rather than Cycle One. The grant program is intended to support capital expenditures, meaning funds are restricted to physical assets such as building improvements, major equipment purchases, or other infrastructure-related investments that can strengthen or transform an organization’s operations. Applications for Cycle Two are submitted through an online grant portal managed by Foundant Technologies. The application window opens annually on June 1 and closes on July 1, with submissions accepted throughout that timeframe. Organizations are expected to review all guidelines and application materials in advance, including sample applications and instructional resources provided by the foundation. Applicants must ensure that their organizational and contact information is accurate, as the foundation may initiate follow-up communications during the review process, including requests for additional documentation, clarification questions, or scheduling of site visits. Following submission, the review process begins immediately and extends through the summer and fall months. The foundation’s Distribution Committee conducts a formal evaluation of all proposals, culminating in a decision-making meeting held in mid-November. During this review period, applications are assessed based on alignment with the foundation’s mission, the strength of the capital request, and the anticipated impact on the organization and the broader Rhode Island community. While specific scoring criteria are not publicly detailed, the process emphasizes thorough documentation and organizational readiness. Applicants are notified of funding decisions by the end of November. For those selected to receive funding, grant awards are distributed by mid-December. Once awarded, recipients are required to comply with reporting obligations, including submitting detailed use-of-funds reports 12 months after receiving the grant and annually thereafter until all funds have been fully expended. These reporting requirements align with federal compliance standards and ensure accountability in the use of awarded funds. The program operates on a recurring annual cycle, with consistent application and decision timelines each year. Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to plan well in advance, gather required documentation, and utilize the foundation’s available resources. Direct support is available through the foundation’s Grants and Systems Manager for technical assistance with the application portal, while general inquiries can be directed through the foundation’s main contact channels. Overall, Cycle Two represents a structured and competitive opportunity for Rhode Island nonprofits seeking capital funding to enhance their facilities and long-term operational capacity.