Accepting LOIs Starting December 2024

The Western New York Foundation’s Impact Capacity Assessment Program Core (iCAP Core) is a tailored program designed for emerging and smaller nonprofits, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of capacity building and its influence on both internal and external facets of their organization. Capacity building is any activity that strengthens nonprofit performance, effectiveness, and impact. Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO) defines nonprofit effectiveness as “the ability of an organization or a network to fulfill its mission through a blend of sound management, strong governance, and a persistent rededication to assessing and achieving results.

iCAP Core is an intensive coaching program focused on the importance of building a strong relationship between the Executive Director and Board Chair, resulting in a greater appreciation of the power of this relationship when developed through best practices. In addition, the program includes intensive board education and development that will enhance the board’s understanding of their roles and responsibility, particularly related to securing the necessary resources toward mission accomplishment. In collaboration, the Executive Director, Board Chair, and Board members will develop a capacity building plan that will initiate investment from the WNY Foundation and other financial sources in a properly timed and effective manner.

iCAP Core is a 6-month program designed to address the complexities of capacity-related opportunities and challenges for nonprofits. Key elements of the program include:

• Leadership Focus: Executive Director and Board Chair relationships are at the heart of iCAP Core. Through one-on-one consultation and coaching, these positions receive targeted support and guidance to strengthen their leadership skills, strategic thinking, and organizational vision.

• Board Training: Recognizing the pivotal role of an informed and skilled board in organizational success, iCAP Core focuses on board development. Board members engage in sessions to equip them with the knowledge and tools for effective governance, strategic decision-making, and resource mobilization.

• Comprehensive Organizational Development: The program covers various facets of organizational development including leadership structure development, board governance, financial management, fundraising strategies, communications and marketing, evaluation capacity, implement and assess programs, and building information technology systems to support the agency’s needs.

• Capacity Building Plan: The development of a 1 to 2-year organizational capacity-building plan with an action plan that includes goal and progress measurements. This will help inform future foundation investment in organization’s capacity development.

• Stipend: A $10,000 stipend that can be used to offset administrative expenses during iCAP. This is generously supported by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Applicant must be a non-profit organization who has obtained tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Code or a fiscally sponsored organization

2. Applicant must be a food system, arts and culture, or rural organization.

3. Organization must be in operation for at least 2 years with at least $50,000 in annual revenue.