City of Cambridge Implements New $6 Million Grant Fund for Cambridge Nonprofits. Eligible Cambridge non-profits can receive up to $150,000 for their organization.

The City of Cambridge has launched a new fund that enables Cambridge nonprofits to apply to receive assistance for losses incurred and increased operating costs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible Cambridge non-profits can receive up to $150,000 for their organization. The online grant application is open until July 7, 2023.

As part of its allocation of funds through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the City of Cambridge established the Cambridge Nonprofit Recovery Fund to help address the financial hardship that the nonprofit sector faced because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This initiative highlights the city’s strategic use of our American Rescue Plan Act funds to help support our community as it continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said City Manager Yi-An Huang. "We are excited to partner with Conduit Government Relations (CGR) and Cambridge Nonprofit Coalition (CNC). Their expertise will be invaluable as we work together to implement this critical grant program."

CNC designed the funding model, helped draft the application and eligibility requirements, and will support outreach efforts and conduct a follow-up survey. CGR will provide technical expertise to applicants, review all applications, and provide recommendations to the city on grant awards.

Grant awards are based on an eligible organization’s documented proof of economic damage (loss of revenues) and/or increased operating costs (e.g., rent, utilities, personnel) incurred beginning March 3, 2021 through December 31, 2024, as well as the availability of funds. This video and these slides can also help orient organizations thinking of applying.

"We are proud to partner with the City of Cambridge and CNC to assist with the ARPA Grant Fund to support Cambridge nonprofits in their efforts to maintain operations and serve the community," said Scott Carter, President of Conduit Government Relations. “These grants will make a significant impact and help ensure that these organizations have the tools they need to succeed and continue to serve the Cambridge community."

“Cambridge nonprofits stepped up to meet the many diverse and complex needs of the community during the pandemic,” said Elena Sokolow-Kaufman of CNC. “However, our work has shown that the nonprofit sector remains vulnerable to COVID’s economic impact and an increasingly difficult labor market, while demand for services continues to rise. Shoring up these institutions is one of the smartest things we can do with our federal recovery funds to ensure a future Cambridge that is stronger and more vibrant and inclusive.”

Learn more and apply here.