>> Nonprofit Management Assistance
Program Goal
Nonprofit Management Assistance is a granting program designed to support a vital nonprofit sector in the St. Croix region by helping organizations focus their vision, deal with change or improve their operations.
Grants will be used to strengthen nonprofit governance and management including board development, financial management, resource development, marketing and communication, strategic planning or human resource management.
Grants are awarded to projects that strengthen an organization's operations, its overall effectiveness in achieving its mission or its ability to be responsive to its constituents. Specific types of projects might include:
- Leadership Development - board development/governance, executive leadership, staff or volunteer development, partnership or collaborative leadership.
- Resource Development - developing a fundraising plan, diversifying strategies, long term funding sustainability.
- Communication and Strategic Relationships - communication audits, marketing or communication plans, market analysis, cultural responsiveness.
- Planning and Evaluation - strategic planning, organizational self-assessment, evaluation training.
- Internal Management - human resource management, workplace diversity, financial systems, volunteer management, organizational restructuring or merger.
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must be a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization that has been in existence for at least two years prior to the application. Fiscal sponsorships are not permitted for this grant program.
Grants will be given to nonprofit organizations serving the St. Croix Valley region including Polk, St. Croix and Pierce counties in Wisconsin and Washington and Chisago counties in Minnesota. Nonprofit organizations that serve residents in this region will be considered, although preference will be given to organizations based in the area.
Because the Foundation would like to see as many organizations benefit from these funds as possible, applicants can receive only one grant per year.
Applicants must have no outstanding final reports due to the St. Croix Valley Foundation for this grant program.
What Are the Funding Criteria?
The Foundation will review proposals using the following criteria:
- The proposal demonstrates a clear organizational need for the project.
- The project will give the organization new skills, systems or capabilities that will increase its efficiency or effectiveness.
- The organization is ready to complete the project demonstrating evidence of board and staff commitment.
- Assistance is likely to have a significant impact on the organization in fulfilling its mission or its ability to be responsive to its constituents and the community.
- There is a clearly defined plan and achievable goals, activities and timeline.
- The budget is realistic, the project is financially feasible and budget details are provided.
- If using an outside consultant, the proposal includes the consultant’s resume and cost estimate. If a consultant has not been identified, the proposal describes how the organization will identify and select a consultant.
What Expenses Are Eligible?
Grant funds may be expended within one year from the date of the award. Grant funds may not be used for capital campaigns, general operating support, routine financial audits, organizational start up costs, computer hardware, equipment, or for expenses already incurred by the applicant.
What is the Size Range of a Nonprofit Management Assistance Grant?
Grants can range up to $2,500. Proposals may be awarded partial funding.
Can More Than One Proposal Be Submitted?
An organization is limited to one proposal for this grant program. An applicant may submit a proposal for another SCVF grant program during the same grant cycle if they are eligible.
Whom Can I Contact for More Information?
Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Jill Shannon to discuss ideas or for any help in completing an application.
Jill can be reached by telephone at (715) 386-9490 or via email. You can also click on recent grants to view grants made last cycle.
Go to application materials for forms to complete your application.