Core Grant Program

The Nelson Foundation Core Grant Program provides multi-year general operating support to small to mid-sized nonprofits in the Greater Philadelphia region that are committed to addressing racial inequity and social injustice and whose work serves young people, families, and their communities.

Provides multi‑year general operating support to nonprofits serving young people, families, and communities in Greater Philadelphia.

• Benefits include:
• $60,000 USD total grant ($20,000 annually for 3 years)
• Streamlined reporting (brief check‑ins, one site visit, final report only)
• Focus on racial equity and social justice

Support for both direct service and advocacy/systems change work

• Nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) status, fiscal sponsor, or local affiliate with local staff/board
• Annual expenses under $2.5 million
• Majority of services provided in Greater Philadelphia (Philadelphia, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery Counties)
• Commitment to equity in operations and programming
• Focus on serving young people, families, and communities impacted by systemic racism and inequity
• Programs must be sustained (not drop‑in or shorter than 4 weeks)
• Hospitals, schools, universities, daycare facilities, individuals, scholarships, fundraising events, medical expenses, and religious activities are not eligible