Website developed to help nonprofits access new support funding

Gov. John Carney and New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer announced the $25 million Delaware Nonprofit Support Fund Sept. 9. With the collaborative partnerships of the Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement, Delaware Community Foundation, Philanthropy Delaware, and United Way of Delaware, a substantive grant program exclusively for nonprofits will support organizations that have provided services to Delawareans and Delaware families throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Services include assistance for food, substance abuse issues, job loss, homelessness, and domestic abuse.

The collaborative group has launched a web portal, www.decaresfunds.org, to assist nonprofits with understanding all current funding options for CARES Act money. This portal will enable nonprofits to quickly identify grant opportunities and then link through to detailed descriptions and criteria for qualification.

During the week of Sept. 21, DANA will release a series of webinars to train nonprofits on completing grant applications for Parts I and II of the Delaware Nonprofit Support Program. For those in need of more in-depth assistance, the DANA team will stand ready to answer questions and walk applicants through the process successfully. Nonprofits can request help by emailing decaresfunds@delawarenonprofit.org or clicking the Contact Us button on the web portal.

Applications will officially open Monday, Oct. 5, and the first of three expected funding application rounds will close by Friday, Oct. 16. These grants are compliance-based and noncompetitive. All nonprofits that meet the qualifications are encouraged to apply.

“We are very excited about the launch of these resources. While working with the state and New Castle County in developing this opportunity, our collaborative was very cognizant to make these grants noncompetitive and equitable among all nonprofits. One of the most important ways to achieve this is to submit a complete application, and DANA can help you do that,” said Sheila Bravo, Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement CEO.

“Our full goal is to get money to every nonprofit that qualifies,” said Delaware Community Foundation President and CEO Stuart Comstock-Gay. “Nonprofit organizations have been playing a critical role in keeping Delaware going. Great work is being done, and this fund should help provide much-needed help.” 

“Getting money into the hands of our nonprofits has been our goal since the minute this crisis hit. Nonprofits are the only businesses dedicated to serving our local communities, and thanks to their work, hundreds of thousands of Delawareans have received vital services and resources during this pandemic. Now, many more will,” said Michelle Taylor, United Way of Delaware CEO.

“The philanthropic community believes in supporting a vibrant and sustainable nonprofit community,” said Vernita Dorsey, Philanthropy Delaware board president. “This critical funding from the state and county provides an essential resource to help nonprofit organizations respond to the COVID-19 crisis.”