Northland Foundation Now Accepting Applications for the first cohort of Strengthening Communities Nonprofit Capacity-Building Initiative
(February 2010)
The Northland Foundation is now accepting applications to participate in the first cohort of its Strengthening Communities Initiative: Building Nonprofit Capacity to Advance Economic Recovery. This two-year initiative is designed to increase the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of nonprofit partners to address broad economic recovery issues. Applications for the first cohort are due March 15, 2010. Applications to participate in the second round, or cohort, will be due in August 2010.
Eligible community or faith-based nonprofit organizations provide programs or services that assist low-income people of all ages to gain greater economic security. Nonprofit collaborations are also encouraged to apply, with certain restrictions regarding eligibility to receive financial awards. Examples of economic recovery-related programs and services include, but are not limited to, helping people to:
- secure and retain employment ,
- earn higher wages and obtain better-quality jobs,
- gain greater access to State and Federal benefits and tax credits,
- access educational support, job training, and job coaching,
- improve financial literacy and asset development,
- access affordable housing,
- prevent and mitigate foreclosure,
- access basic needs,
- access various supports to help overcome barriers to employment,
such as transportation, child care, etc., or - receive support or assistance to start a business.
Interested nonprofit organizations are strongly urged to review Frequently Asked Questions and read the RFP Packet before proceeding. Questions may be directed to the Northland Foundation's Grant Program Manager, Erik Torch.
Following completion of the application and supporting documents, the Northland Foundation will conduct a site visit. Applications will then be reviewed and participants selected by an independent panel. Participants will receive training, one-on-one technical assistance, and will then be eligible to apply for competitive financial awards to further their capacity building.
It is anticipated that a total of approximately 45 nonprofits working within the Minnesota counties of Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Lake, Koochiching, Itasca, and St. Louis will participate in one of two cohorts, or groups of participants, over the two-year project period.
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