iCAP Implementation Grant Program

iCAP Implementation Grant Program

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Western New York Foundation
Last Updated: January 15, 2026

Summary

The iCAP Implementation Grant Program by the Western New York Foundation aims to support organizations that have completed iCAP or iCAP Core. This program focuses on enhancing local food systems through innovative, sustainable solutions that address social inequities, particularly for BIPOC communities and underserved populations. Eligible organizations can receive funding for up to three years following their capacity-building plan adoption to foster growth, resilience, and effective community engagement.

Overview

NOTE: This grant program is only open to organizations who have completed iCAP or iCAP Core. Who We Are The Western New York Foundation is a philanthropic organization created to support activities that improve the quality of life for people who live in the seven (7) counties of Western New York. As we move into 2025, our commitment to supporting the growth of nonprofits remains as strong as ever. We are particularly excited to renew our focus on partnering with organizations that are making an impact on our regional food system We are looking towards systemic change and the realization of a more self-reliant region. It is with this intentional regional lens that we are committed to bringing a more diverse group of partners into our work to address the growing concerns of Western New Yorkers. What We Do We focus on fostering healthy organizational growth and cultivating nonprofit adaptability and resiliency. The WNY Foundation provides grants to support organizations that are changing our regional food systems and finding equitable solutions to long-standing problems. Our goal is to make targeted investments in specific capacities that will meet the unique characteristics and needs of each individual nonprofit. We provide the necessary resources to build skills, ability, and training that will allow under-resourced agencies to directly address community needs by investing in strategies and structures that result in sound management, strong governance, and greater financial stability. We support coalitions and collaborations across sectors that encourage innovative solutions. We believe diverse partnerships create more equitable and sustainable results. iCAP Implementation iCAP & ICAP Core Capacity Building Plan Implementation The Western New York Foundation, in collaboration with the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, is dedicated to supporting capacity-building plans that are developed during iCAP and iCAP Core. After the completion of either of the iCAP programs, staff from the WNY Foundation will meet with the Executive Director of the organization to review the capacity-building plan and explore potential areas for foundation support. This assistance may include financial support, consulting services, or technical assistance. Organizations have the opportunity to apply for implementation funds for up to three years after adopting their capacity-building plan. Grant Priorities Our primary focus is on our local and regional food system. Specifically, we are looking for or innovative individuals with the resources needed to develop and implement sustainable solutions that build a thriving and equitable food system reflecting the community it serves. We prioritize food system nonprofits dedicated to the wellbeing of BIPOC communities, families disproportionately impacted by poverty, immigrants and refugees, and disadvantaged people in rural areas. We support efforts that work to decrease social inequities and challenge the disparities of conventional food systems. Please see FAQs for additional guidelines.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Applicant must have participated in iCAP or iCAP Core. Applicant must apply within three years of the adoption of the plan. Applicant must have a conversation with foundation staff before applying. Organizations applying for grants must be headquartered within the 7 counties of WNY:Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, and Wyoming.  We welcome Letters of Intent (LOIs) for all our grant programs from organizations dedicated to local and regional food systems work, especially those organizations who are empowering communities to create a more regional, sustainable, and self-sufficient food system. Additionally, our iCAP programs invite LOIs from arts and culture organizations or organizations serving rural communities.

Ineligibility

We do not award grants to individuals, unless otherwise specified; religious organizations for religious purposes; political organizations, campaigns, and candidates; and municipal and government. We do not award grants for endowments; scholarships; capital campaigns; or operating expenses.