The National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders (NALCAB) is on a mission to empower Latino families and communities by fostering economic mobility and social change. By supporting organizations working with Latino populations, NALCAB is helping to build a foundation for lasting prosperity. This year, NALCAB is offering grants to help boost the impact of community development projects, providing financial resources, technical support, and a platform for growth. If your organization is working to uplift Latino communities, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Read on to learn more about NALCAB grants, how you can apply, and what to expect if you’re selected.
What Is NALCAB?
The National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders (NALCAB) is a leading nonprofit organization that is committed to improving the economic status of Latino families and communities in the United States. NALCAB works by providing organizations with the support they need to address challenges and promote economic empowerment in Latino communities. They focus on areas such as:
- Affordable Housing – Addressing the housing crisis by increasing access to homeownership and affordable rental opportunities.
- Financial Inclusion – Promoting financial literacy, access to banking services, and wealth-building strategies.
- Entrepreneurship – Encouraging and supporting Latino-owned businesses and entrepreneurship.
- Community Development – Strengthening community ties and resources through development programs and initiatives.
NALCAB’s programs aim to help organizations build sustainable solutions that enhance economic mobility and improve the quality of life for Latino individuals and families. One of their main ways of providing this support is through grant programs.
What Are NALCAB Grants?
NALCAB grants are designed to support community development efforts within Latino communities, providing funding for projects that have a direct impact on economic empowerment and sustainability. These grants focus on funding initiatives that aim to address key challenges such as:
- Access to financial services for underserved Latino communities.
- Homeownership opportunities and affordable housing.
- Youth and workforce development programs.
- Support for Latino entrepreneurs and small businesses.
- Advocacy for economic policy changes to benefit Latino families and communities.
Through these grants, NALCAB provides organizations with the necessary resources to expand their efforts and take their projects to the next level. By empowering community-based organizations, NALCAB aims to reduce the wealth gap and increase economic opportunities for Latino communities across the nation.
Grant Funding Breakdown
Grants typically range in size and can be tailored to the needs of the applicant. Some examples of funding opportunities include:
- Seed Funding for New Initiatives – Grants to help launch new programs that align with NALCAB’s mission of economic empowerment.
- Program Expansion Grants – Funding to expand existing programs that are already benefiting Latino communities.
- General Operating Support – For organizations that need support to continue their day-to-day operations and maintain their impact.
Who Qualifies for NALCAB Grants?
NALCAB grants are available to organizations working with or serving Latino communities in the United States. To qualify, your organization must meet the following criteria:
- Serve Latino communities – Your organization’s mission must focus on providing services or support to Latino families, small businesses, or communities.
- Be based in the U.S. – NALCAB grants are open to organizations across the United States, with the exception of organizations located in Puerto Rico.
- Be a nonprofit organization or a community-based entity – Your organization must be registered as a nonprofit or similar entity. Government entities and other community-based organizations may also qualify.
- Have a proven track record – Your organization should have a history of successfully carrying out community development or asset-building initiatives within Latino communities.
If your organization aligns with these criteria, you may be eligible to apply for funding through NALCAB’s grant program.
The NALCAB Grant Application Process
Applying for NALCAB grants is a competitive process, and it is important to follow all application instructions carefully. Here are the key steps in the application process:
1. Research Available Grants
NALCAB offers several types of grants, and the specifics can vary from year to year. Be sure to thoroughly review the grant guidelines for the current year to ensure your organization is applying for the right type of funding.
2. Prepare Your Application
Each application will require detailed information about your organization, including:
- Mission and Goals – Clearly outline your organization’s mission and how your work benefits Latino communities.
- Project Description – Provide a detailed description of the project you’re seeking funding for, including goals, activities, and expected outcomes.
- Budget – Include a detailed budget that explains how you intend to use the grant funding.
- Impact Measurement – Demonstrate how you will measure the success of your project and its impact on the community.
You may also need to include additional documentation, such as IRS tax-exempt status, financial statements, or letters of support.
3. Submit Your Application
After preparing all necessary documentation, submit your application through the NALCAB online portal. Be sure to meet the application deadline and provide all required information to ensure your submission is complete.
4. Review Process
Once applications are submitted, NALCAB’s team will review the proposals. This process typically involves evaluating the potential impact of the project, the capacity of the organization to execute the project, and how the initiative aligns with NALCAB’s mission.
5. Award Notification
Organizations that are selected for funding will receive official notification from NALCAB. If your organization is awarded a grant, you will also receive guidance on how to access the funding and begin your project.
Key Dates for NALCAB Grants
Application Period: Typically opens in early 2025, though specific dates may vary each year.
Application Deadline: The application deadline is usually several weeks after the application period opens. Be sure to check the NALCAB website for up-to-date information.
Notification of Award: Award notifications are typically sent out a few months after the application deadline.
To ensure you don’t miss out on critical updates, sign up for NALCAB’s newsletter and stay connected via their social media channels. This will help you stay informed about upcoming grant opportunities and the latest news for community development.
Additional Program Information: NALCAB Fellowship
For those looking to enhance their skills and community development expertise, NALCAB also offers an exciting fellowship program. Here’s a quick overview of the fellowship, including key details:
1. Acceptance Rate and Selection
The acceptance rate for the NALCAB Fellowship is approximately 50%. NALCAB selects about 20 applicants annually from a pool of 30-40 applications. Be sure to make your application stand out by clearly outlining your project and demonstrating its potential impact.
2. In-Person Meeting Dates
The fellowship includes four in-person training sessions across the year. The dates for these meetings are:
- In-person Training #1 – San Juan, Puerto Rico – April 7-11, 2025
- In-person Training #2 – TBD – Summer 2025
- In-person Training #3 – NALCAB National Conference – September 15-17, 2025
- In-person Training #4 – Graduation in San Antonio, TX – November 3-7, 2025
3. Travel Costs and Commitment
The estimated total travel cost for each fellow’s organization will range from $6,000 to $7,000. This includes hotel accommodations (around $250 per night) and flight costs (around $400 to $600 per session). NALCAB will provide breakfast and lunch during the training sessions.
4. Hotel Discounts
NALCAB will reserve a hotel block for all fellows attending the training sessions, and fellows will have the option to either pay for their hotel stay upon check-in or receive a link/authorization form for upfront payment.
5. Language and Translation
Sessions will be conducted in English and Spanish. Fellows can participate in discussions and presentations in either language, and NALCAB’s bilingual staff will provide translation when needed. The final community development project presentation can be done in the language the fellow feels most comfortable with, though English is encouraged for broader accessibility.
6. Collaboration and Final Project
Fellows can provide feedback on each other’s community development projects, but each project must be submitted individually. The final presentation will be made in front of current fellows, NALCAB staff, partners, and possible funders, who will evaluate and provide feedback on the project.
7. Refund Policy for Withdrawal
If a fellow needs to drop out of the program, partial refunds may be available, but this is handled on a case-by-case basis. The fellowship team advises considering the time commitment before applying to avoid disrupting the group dynamic.
Why Apply for NALCAB Grants and Fellowship?
NALCAB grants and fellowships provide much more than just funding—they offer a comprehensive support system for organizations and individuals focused on Latino economic empowerment. Here are some key reasons to apply:
- Strengthen Your Impact: Funding allows you to scale your organization’s efforts and make a greater impact in your community.
- Access to Resources: NALCAB provides not only financial support but also access to a network of experts, mentors, and other community organizations.
- Build Capacity: By leveraging NALCAB’s support, you can enhance your organization’s capacity to carry out long-term, sustainable programs.
- Join a Powerful Network: As a grantee or fellow, you’ll be part of a larger network of organizations and individuals that are working together to advance the economic mobility of Latino communities.
- Improve Latino Economic Empowerment: Ultimately, these grants and fellowships help ensure that Latino families and businesses have the tools and resources they need to thrive in today’s economy.
Conclusion
The NALCAB grants and fellowship program present an incredible opportunity for organizations dedicated to fostering Latino community empowerment and economic mobility. Whether you’re seeking funding to expand your existing work or aiming to build a new initiative, applying for these programs could take your efforts to the next level.