In response to growing financial pressures and shifting federal priorities, Greater Worcester Community Foundation today announced a $3 million investment to strengthen the resilience of local nonprofits across Worcester and Worcester County.
The investment comes at a critical time. Nonprofits are navigating reduced federal funding, heightened demand for services, and increased financial pressures. Smaller organizations serving the region’s most vulnerable communities are especially strained, balancing the delivery of essential programs with the need to build long-term capacity.
"Shifting federal policies and priorities are impacting nonprofits right here at home. Amidst the uncertainty, we are committed to helping nonprofits strengthen their operations and adapt for long-term sustainability."
- Pete Dunn, President & CEO, Greater Worcester Community Foundation.
The $3 million commitment includes:
- $2.5 million from the City of Worcester, designated to support smaller nonprofits with average annual revenues of $500,000 or less.
- $500,000 in additional support from the Foundation's Community Leadership Fund and other discretionary endowment funds, as well as supplemental support from the Barr Foundation and the Klarman Family Foundation.
Launched under the banner of “Facing Change,” this new funding will expand the Foundation’s suite of capacity-building supports. Updates to existing grant programs have already been deployed, including doubling the resources available for the Foundation’s Nonprofit Effectiveness Grants program and Mergers and Shared Services Fund. Both programs are now accepting applications on a rolling basis to distribute funding more quickly to nonprofits in need.
The Foundation will roll out two new initiatives in early 2026:
- Multi-year general operating support and organizational effectiveness grants for smaller nonprofits. These grants will have a focus on supporting pathways to sustainability and will include peer learning cohorts.
- Nonprofit Loan Fund for smaller organizations navigating municipal and state contracts. This 0% loan program will enable nonprofits to secure reimbursable government contracts and jumpstart critical services.
The City of Worcester’s substantial investment reflects a shared vision of equity and access.
“Our partnership with Greater Worcester Community Foundation enables us to support the organizations that directly serve our residents. Investing in nonprofit resiliency is an investment in Worcester’s future.”
- City Manager Eric D. Batista
While City-designated funding will focus on Worcester-based organizations, additional contributions from other funds will enable the Foundation to expand nonprofit support programs across Worcester County.
The Foundation will continue to adapt its programs as community needs evolve. To learn more, visit greaterworcester.org.
