Nonprofits need a strong foundation to address complex social issues. Recently, this has been challenging due to reduced funding, staff transitions, rising demand for services, and political changes. When facing these pressures, leaders may feel uncertain about how to guide their organizations. They may also feel disconnected from peers and sources of support. By convening grantees for shared learning, collective action, and peer support, funders can help them strengthen capacity and build the connections needed to advance their missions.
If you are a funder exploring ways to support grantees, you may find inspiration in these examples. Each story shows how funders invested in grantees’ capacity, helping them build resilience and stronger peer connections. Through our work with these and other funders, we have also learned strategies that make investments in connection and resilience both relevant and impactful.
Supporting Nonprofit Resilience
Capacity support is more effective when grantees have voice and choice in the services they receive. In addition, developing a strong network of technical assistance providers ensures that grantees can partner with experts who understand their context and needs.
Case Example: Kresge Foundation’s Fostering Equitable Urban Leadership Program
Kresge Foundation recognized that grantees would benefit from support in building leadership and racial equity capacity. We partnered with them to design and implement a tailored program. Grantees and service providers helped shape the design, goals, and theory of change. The resulting FUEL Program (Fostering Urban Equitable Leadership) matched grantees with service providers best suited to meet their needs. As a result, the program built capacity while also strengthening collaboration among service providers. Providers gained awareness of each other’s work, referred clients, and built lasting connections. Read more in this case study.
Case Example: Blue Cross North Carolina’s Strengthen NC Program
The Strengthen NC program invested in the capacity of nonprofits serving underrepresented communities. Grantees often named fundraising and HR support as priorities. However, many grassroots organizations lacked time or networks to hire effective consultants. As program manager, we reduced the burden by researching and vetting a list of consultants. We then supported grantees in making final selections. Read more about the program here.
Catalyzing Connection and Collaboration Among Nonprofits
Addressing systemic issues requires collaboration. Unfortunately, traditional approaches often reinforce silos. Funders can play a key role by supporting cohorts or communities of practice. These spaces help grantees build knowledge, relationships, and skills needed to address barriers and make progress on long-term outcomes.
Case Example: Healthy Food Community of Practice
The Healthy Food Community of Practice was created for national and regional organizations to connect, learn, and act collectively. The goal was equitable food systems in which BIPOC communities have access to nutritious food. This change would also reduce barriers for other marginalized groups. The initiative began in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic and a national reckoning on racial justice. These challenges exposed inequities in food access and distribution.
Instead of weakening commitment, these events strengthened the community. Members leaned on each other for ideas and support. They adapted quickly, sustaining engagement despite social distancing and shifts in food benefits. Over four years, the community produced enduring relationships, improved learning practices, and collaborations that influenced the broader field. Read more about the community and see resources here.
Case Example: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Networks for Education Equity Cohort
Education networks have long supported professionals in the field. Yet many struggle to keep pace with change and ensure resources reach those most in need. To address this, the Networks for Education Equity cohort was formed. Funded by the Gates Foundation as part of its K-12 Education Strategy and facilitated by Community Wealth Partners, the cohort created a space for learning and innovation. Networks piloted new approaches, learned from peers, and inspired further action. Members also designed the content and cadence of offerings.
After two years, the cohort generated lasting benefits. Organizations changed their approaches, forged stronger relationships, and contributed insights that can guide the broader field. Ultimately, the work supported education networks in better serving Black and Latino students and those experiencing poverty. Read more about the cohort and see resources here.
See more of our insights on capacity building in our field guide, Making Capacity Building More Equitable. If you are a funder and would like thought partnership, schedule a 30-minute call with Lori Bartczak.