The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation is a venture philanthropy firm that invests in new, but potentially transformational, social enterprises. They support organizations in Africa, Europe, India, Latin America, and the United States who are addressing urgent social and environmental problems.

Applications are accepted on a continual basis for $300,000 investments disbursed over three years.

Eligibility

This funding opportunity is open to:

• 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations
• International organizations with their country’s equivalent of a 501(c)3
• B corporations
• C corporations
• Hybrid organizations

Organizations with fiscal sponsors will be accepted in select cases.

Priorities

• Organizations that are capable of making a large scale impact
• Projects based on data to achieve social change
• Leaders who know their communities and are continuously learning to be able to serve those communities better
• Newer organizations, 3-5 years old

Timeline

Submission (8-10 weeks)

A member of the Foundation staff will review applications on a rolling basis. Approximately 25% of submissions will advance to the next phase of the process.

First Interview (1-2 Months)

Interviews are conducted either in person or by phone to discuss the applicant organization and the proposed project. Approximately 25% of interviewees will advance.

Due Diligence (1-2 Months)

This phase involves research on the proposed project as well as the market and contacting people in the applicant’s network. Additional interviews may be required. Approximately 15% of submissions will advance.

Planning and Scheduling (1-2 Months)

During this phase, the applicant and staff member will establish guidelines for measuring the organization’s ability to succeed with the proposed project. These standards will also be used to assess progress over the three year funding period.

Grant Awarded (3-6 Months)

Payments are disbursed twice a year over the three year funding period. A Foundation staff member will also join the organization’s Board of Directors to provide more hands on support.