Capacity Building Grants

Overview

ACT supports and encourages nonprofit excellence and strengthens leadership within nonprofits by investing in organizational needs. ACT has invested more than $2M in capacity-building grants to Alexandria nonprofits since 2005.

In light of our commitment to equity, ACT has adopted a trust-based approach to grantmaking that breaks down the traditional power dynamic between funder and grantee and begins to create a collaborative environment that supports listening, learning, and true partnership. We believe it will enable ACT to be more nimble and responsive to needs that arise.

ACT is pleased to announce our 2026 capacity building grants will focus on organizations supporting Alexandria’s youth workforce and career readiness ecosystem. As we seek to advance Economic Well-Being, we recognize the importance of strengthening the resilience of organizations helping Alexandria’s young people find fulfilling careers, meaningful employment opportunities, and equitable pathways to success.

The application process will open on October 14 and close on November 14. ACT will host a grant information session on Thursday, October 16 at 9am, register via Zoom at: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/-7exNSunSZWG-GK7wwQ-qQ#/registration

In January 2025, ACT awarded 8 capacity building grants to support organizational resilience.  We believe supporting our community means investing in those who care for our community. These grants will support the leaders of nonprofits because we know strong leaders are critical for building organizational resilience, guiding teams through challenges, adapting to changes, and seeing possibilities in times of adversity.  These 8 organizations also align with ACT’s strategic priorities of Supporting Community Voice and Supporting Community & Economic Wellbeing.

2025 Grantees include:

• Casa Chirilagua
• Community Lodgings
• Restoration Immigration Legal Aid
• OAR – Offender Aid & Restoration
• Service Never Sleeps
• The Spitfire Club
• Together We Bake
• Voices for Virginia’s Children

More details about the grant process and application can be found on our Grant Opportunities page.