You have access to three distinct Rasmuson Foundation Capital Grant programs tailored to varying project scales across Alaska. Whether you’re aiming for a small capital improvement with Tier 1 Grants capped at $35,000, or a broader community initiative through Community Support Grants reaching $250,000, each option demands attention to collaboration, eligibility, and sustainable impact. But how do you determine which grant fits your project’s complexity and goals?
Key Takeaways
- Rasmuson Foundation offers three capital grant programs: Tier 1 (up to $35,000), Community Support (up to $250,000), and Legacy Grants (over $250,000).
- Tier 1 Grants fund small-scale capital projects like technology upgrades and infrastructure, with year-round rolling applications and decisions within 90 days.
- Community Support Grants support mid-level capital and programmatic projects addressing broad community needs and require Letters of Inquiry, with quarterly reviews for capital projects.
- Legacy Grants fund large-scale strategic capital projects exceeding $250,000, emphasizing collaboration, sustainability, and statewide impact.
- Applicants must demonstrate financial stability, project sustainability, and community impact, with clear application details and appropriate timing between grant requests.
Overview of Rasmuson Foundation Capital Grants
Although the Rasmuson Foundation offers various capital grants across Alaska, you can apply to three main programs based on the size and scope of your project.
Tier 1 Grants provide up to $35,000 for small capital projects and one-time investments that directly benefit Alaskans, with ongoing applications and a 90-day project evaluation.
Community Support Grants fund larger capital and programmatic efforts up to $250,000, targeting broad community impact and requiring Letters of Inquiry with priority deadlines.
Legacy Grants support significant statewide projects exceeding $250,000, emphasizing collaboration and thorough evaluation through Letters of Inquiry and extended review.
Tier 1 Grants: Small-Scale Capital Projects
To apply for a Tier 1 Grant, you must be an Alaska-based nonprofit, Tribe, or government entity with active operations and 501(c)(3) status for at least one year.
Your application can be submitted year-round and will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with decisions made within about 90 days.
Most awards range between $5,000 and $20,000, targeting small capital projects like technology upgrades, vehicle purchases, and infrastructure improvements that benefit local communities.
Eligibility Requirements
If you’re an Alaska-based nonprofit or local or Tribal government, you can apply for a Tier 1 Grant to fund small capital projects or one-time investments like technology upgrades, vehicle purchases, or renovations.
Grant eligibility requires at least one completed fiscal year of financials and 501(c)(3) status for a minimum of one year. Funding restrictions exclude core government functions, K-12 education, and certain other projects. Only community-benefiting initiatives are supported.
Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions typically within 90 days.
Application Process
Once you’re ready to move forward with your Tier 1 Grant proposal, the Rasmuson Foundation makes the application process as straightforward as possible for eligible Alaska-based nonprofits, Tribes, and local governments.
They encourage you to submit your request online at their grants portal anytime during the year. You should book a meeting with program staff for application tips and grant writing guidance before applying.
Strong proposals clearly address community needs, project benefits, organizational capacity, and sustainability. Your application must demonstrate financial stability with at least one full fiscal year of financials.
- Submit your application online anytime; reviews are on a rolling basis with decisions within 90 days
- Prepare a clear project description including benefits and sustainability
- Show organizational financial health and capacity to manage grant funds
Eligibility Criteria for Tier 1 Funding
Although numerous organizations work within Alaska, only certain ones qualify for Tier 1 funding from the Rasmuson Foundation.
Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least one year of status and a completed fiscal year of financials, local governments, and Tribal entities active in Alaska.
Faith-based groups can apply if their projects show broad community impact.
Tier 1 funding supports small capital projects, such as technology upgrades and vehicle purchases, with requests up to $35,000 and no matching funds required.
These funding opportunities prioritize nonprofit eligibility focused on one-time investments that benefit Alaska communities.
Community Support Grants: Mid-Level Investments
You can access mid-level investments through Rasmuson Foundation’s Community Support Grants, which provide up to $250,000 for capital and programmatic projects that deliver broad community impact in Alaska.
These grants help organizations address strong community needs with projects like construction, renovation, land acquisition, and major equipment or furnishings.
To strengthen your funding strategies, collaborate with multiple partners, as the Foundation rarely funds large projects alone.
- Projects must show clear community impact
- Eligible applicants include nonprofits, local governments, and Tribal entities
- Letters of Inquiry have priority deadlines on February 1 and August 1
Legacy Grants: Large-Scale Strategic Funding
Legacy Grants focus on funding large-scale projects that bring broad community or statewide benefits, requiring strategic planning and significant collaboration.
You’ll need to demonstrate your organization’s capacity and secure multiple financial partners for projects exceeding $250,000.
These grants prioritize capital investments like construction, renovation, and historic preservation that go beyond routine government functions.
Large-Scale Impact Focus
Legacy Grants typically support:
- Construction, renovation, and historic preservation projects
- Strategic programs with measurable community benefits
- Collaboration and community financial support, emphasizing board contributions
Salaries and core government functions aren’t usually funded.
Strategic Project Requirements
When pursuing large-scale strategic funding, your project must demonstrate broad community or statewide significance and fit within the Foundation’s focus on capital-intensive or innovative solutions.
Your project needs clear strategic alignment with the Foundation’s priorities, addressing important issues in Alaska through construction, renovation, or creative community approaches.
Expect to show project sustainability by evidencing organizational capacity and community benefit while securing financial support beyond the Foundation, including from your board.
Eligibility requires you to be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or local/Tribal government operating in Alaska, with faith-based projects qualifying if impact is broad and inclusive.
Program-Related Investments and Financial Sustainability
While grants provide essential upfront support, Program-Related Investments (PRIs) offer a powerful way to build financial sustainability for your community projects.
PRIs help you develop sustainable revenue streams while tackling pressing community challenges. These investments require repayment, encouraging organizations to plan for long-term success and measurable social returns.
- PRIs foster innovative solutions to local issues
- They complement grants, leveraging more resources for your project
- PRIs promote financial discipline and lasting community impact
Arts and Individual Artist Awards Programs
Alongside investments in financial resilience, the Rasmuson Foundation provides robust support directly to Alaska’s creative community through its Individual Artist Awards Programs.
You’ll find the Distinguished Artist Award recognizing decades of creative excellence, reopening for nominations in 2026, and fellowships launching the same year, with Project Awards following in 2027.
These grants fuel time for reflection and experimentation—critical for your artistic development—while fostering innovation and artist collaboration within the state.
Community engagement is central, amplifying the impact your work has on Alaskan society.
It’s a clear signal of the Foundation’s broader mission: to enrich cultural vibrancy and quality of life across Alaska.
Application Process and Tips for Successful Grants
To increase your chances of success with Rasmuson Foundation capital grants, start by connecting with program staff to discuss your project before submitting your application.
Use these successful strategies for effective grant writing:
- Clearly explain community needs and how your project will benefit Alaska.
- Show your organization’s financial stability and capacity.
- Highlight project sustainability and long-term impact.
Be thorough in your application, detailing both organizational and project specifics.
After your project finishes, wait 12 months before applying again.
Strong proposals focus on community impact, organizational strength, and clear, concise grant writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Timeline for Receiving a Decision on a Tier 1 Grant?
You typically receive a decision on a Tier 1 grant within about 90 days after submitting your application. The application process involves a monthly grant review by a program officer who then makes recommendations to leadership for approval. This rolling review schedule aims to provide timely funding decisions.
Can Faith-Based Organizations Apply for Capital Grants if Projects Benefit the Wider Community?
You sure can apply if your faith-based project shows serious community engagement beyond your pews—grant eligibility hinges on benefiting the wider Alaskan public, not just your congregation’s Sunday best.
Are Indirect Costs Like Salaries Eligible Expenses in Capital Grant Budgets?
Yes, you can include indirect costs like salaries as eligible expenses in your capital grant budget. Salary considerations are allowed, with up to 15% of the grant covering these costs for Tier 1 and Community Support grants.
Is There Technical Support Available for Applicants Lacking Internet Access?
You can get phone assistance for application guidance if you lack internet access. Contact Rasmuson Foundation by phone at 907-297-2700 or toll-free in Alaska at 877-366-2700 for direct support with your application.
How Are Site Visits Conducted for Large Legacy Grant Proposals?
For large legacy grant proposals, site visits involve key staff and board members and focus on site evaluation aligned with funding criteria. The visit lets staff assess the facility, project benefits, and community support before recommending funding.
Conclusion
You might think larger grants always mean bigger impact, but with Rasmuson Foundation Capital Grants, even small Tier 1 awards under $35,000 can spark meaningful change in Alaskan communities. Their layered approach lets you start small, build credibility, and scale up through Community Support and Legacy Grants, proving strategic, community-driven investments matter more than just the dollar amount. Investigate how combining collaboration and sustainability creates lasting benefits statewide.