Richmond will move to a new grantmaking system for nonprofit funding starting with the fiscal year 2027 budget. The city will stop managing “non-departmental” grants directly and instead work with expert grantmaking partners in four areas: economic mobility, children and families, arts and culture, and health. Nonprofits, including current grantees, will need to apply through these partners beginning in summer 2026. Grants are expected to be awarded by early fall 2026.
The city has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) to find organizations experienced in grant administration that can manage the application process. These selected partners will provide technical support, faster timelines, and structured help for applicants. The city will still oversee the process and decide on funding levels for each area, but the chosen partners will handle competitive awarding of grants.
Key features of this new model include a shorter timeline from application to award, increased technical assistance for applicants, clearer performance measures with regular reporting requirements, and alignment with Richmond’s 2025 Mayoral Action Plan. The structure builds on previous successful efforts such as the Health Equity Fund.
Amy Popovich, Deputy Chief Administrative Office of Human Services, said: “This new structure keeps Richmond’s priorities front and center while giving nonprofits the expert support they deserve. It streamlines requirements, accelerates funding, and ensures organizations can focus more on serving residents and less on navigating the process.”
The timeline for implementing this change begins November 25, 2025 with the release of an RFP to select grantmaking partners. The mayor’s proposed FY27 budget is set for March 2026; City Council adoption follows in May 2026. Applications are projected to open between July and August 2026, with awards announced September-October 2026.
Current recipients of FY26 grants will continue receiving funds without interruption during this transition period. Information sessions for nonprofits about the new process are scheduled for spring 2026.
Learn more about the grantmaking process and access the RFP here.