Giving New Nonprofits a Strong Start
At DuPage Foundation, we’re growing alongside our nonprofit community. That’s why we have introduced a new model for our Community Impact grantmaking: Seed, Sustain, Strengthen. By expanding the breadth of our Community Impact grant program, we can better meet organizations where they are, from just starting out to scaling up for effective long-term impact.
What Is a Seed Grant?
Seed grants are designed for young nonprofits—organizations that have operated as 501(c)(3) public charities for less than three years. These groups often bring fresh energy and big ideas, but many funders hesitate to invest in them because they don’t yet have a proven track record. Our Seed grants help fund the most promising new nonprofits, so they can start making a difference sooner. Each Seed grant offers up to $5,000 in matching funds. Recipient organizations must raise an equal amount before receiving their grant—building not just financial support, but valuable fundraising skills.
“If you work together and have the resources, you can make a big impact,” said Barb Szczepaniak, our vice president for programs. “You can change the trajectory of an organization and the benefit it provides to the community.”
Why This New Approach?
Because we heard the need. Frequently, new, local nonprofits are turning to us for support in the early stages of their journey and, until recently, we were not able to provide them with this essential funding. With the Seed program, we have created a lane of support tailored just for them. From first steps to full stride, our Seed, Sustain, Strengthen grantmaking model is helping great ideas take root in DuPage County.
Through our Spring Health and Human Services Community Impact grant program, four Seed grants totaling $16,500 were awarded to:
- Grow Wellness Foundation – $5,000
- Josiah’s House & Esters Throne – $5,000
- Kits 4 Kids – $1,500
- Light of Hope Wellness and Counseling – $5,000
To learn more about funded programs and upcoming opportunities, visit our Community Impact Grants page.
Read more stories like this in our summer newsletter.
