CBO Fuel Grants: CBO Capacity Building Grants

The CBO Fuel Grants support community benefit organizations in Lancaster to enhance their capacity through a structured 7-month workshop series. This initiative encourages self-assessment and growth, fostering a shared understanding of equity, diversity, and inclusion. CBOs can apply for funding to utilize professional services for strategic planning, staff development, and technology enhancements, ultimately aimed at improving their organizational impact and effectiveness.

NOTE: We are requiring organizations to contact a Program Officer before applying.
CBO Fuel grants encourage community benefit organizations to invest in self-examination and growth, increasing their impact and effectiveness in Lancaster.
CBOs will engage in a 7-month workshop series facilitated by local and national experts. The series begins with a self-assessment to help view the CBO’s practices through the lens of equity and social change. The cohort experience is designed to gain a shared language and concepts to understand diversity, equity and inclusion in thought provoking ways. Get ready to spark insight and innovation while addressing organizational culture and systems, and more.
The cohort experience also includes grants to support capacity building work designed to help organizations fulfill their mission. Community benefit organizations (CBOs) are encouraged to utilize services offered by professional consultants.
Capacity Building Examples:
Strategic PlanningBoard and/or Staff DevelopmentMarketing and/ or Development PlansWebsite or Technology EnhancementCollaborative Projects to Create Greater Impact

Eligibility

Eligibility for funding is determined based on due diligence and assessment of the following:Services to benefit the residents of Lancaster CountyCurrent 501(c)(3) designation from the IRSRegistered with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Charitable Organizations unless otherwise exempt per the Institutions of Purely Public Charity ActIRS Form 990Annual Audit or a financial review by an independent CPA within the last 12 monthsIn good standing with all existing awards and contracts with the Lancaster County Community FoundationProjects must benefit residents of Lancaster County, PA.

Ineligibility

CBOs are not eligible to receive grants from the CBO Capacity Building Program for more than 3 consecutive years.Please note the Community Foundation will not typically fund:Creation of new organizationSchoolsCapital campaigns/capital costs (equipment, building costs, maintenance)Political campaignsExpenses incurred before the grant is awardedCemetery associationsReligious causes that further a specific belief/agendaIndividuals