Are you a Winnipeg non-profit looking to develop your team's skills, get help thinking more strategically, or otherwise level up?
Enter capacity-building grants. These are the game-changers of funding--because they're not just focused on helping you achieve one milestone. They're made for building skills and supports that will help you grow and flourish way beyond your next AGM.
My wheelhouse is marketing, and I've seen firsthand how capacity-building grants have transformed Non-Profits I've worked with here in Winnipeg. Whether you're looking to develop messaging and train your team to market like pros (hit me up!), get support with fund development, streamline operations, or more, these grants can help your team build the internal skills you need to succeed.
What counts as "capacity building" anyway?
When funders talk about capacity building, they're talking about strengthening your organization from the inside out. Eligibility varies, but this could mean:
Finally getting that staff training everyone's been asking for
Upgrading your ancient database system
Building evaluation frameworks that actually work
Getting support with fund development
Creating stronger operational systems
Developing marketing strategies to connect with donors, members or volunteers
Training your team on email marketing, social media content creation, digital advertising and other key digital marketing skills
Strategic website development to optimize visitor experience
And more!
At some point, I realized there were many charities and Non-Profits in our city who needed this kind of support but might not know about these funding sources. So I pulled together a list of every grant my clients had used and put out a call for other suggestions. The Winnipeg Non-Profit world is small and mighty, and you all stepped up! Here's the list we all pulled together:
Available Grants for Winnipeg Non-Profits
Local
National
Now you Need to Apply
Writing grant applications can be time-consuming and feel overwhelming. You'll usually need proposals from any outside vendors who would be offering services so funders can see your plans for the money (need help with these? Give me a shout).
Otherwise, focus on:
Matching your needs to the right funder (apply to multiple grants, but avoid copy-paste. Take time to adapt your application to each funder's focus - the extra effort makes a difference)
Showing exactly how this funding will make your organization stronger
Being specific about outcomes - what will actually be different after this grant?
Thinking sustainability - they want to know this investment will stick
What Next?
This list is alive - grant programs change, new ones pop up, and requirements shift. Bookmark this page for updates, and let me know if you find other sources not listed here.
Remember: "Capacity-building" isn't just a buzzword. It's about giving your team the tools they need to create more impact with less burnout. These grants can help you get there.
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