Introducing the Nursey Foundation Impact Fund (NFIF): Empowering Grassroots Nonprofits in Tampa Bay

February 17, 2025

The Nursey Foundation is proud to announce the launch of the Nursey Foundation Impact Fund (NFIF)—an exciting new grant initiative designed to support grassroots nonprofits committed to making a meaningful difference in the Greater Tampa Bay area. This initiative reflects our ongoing dedication to addressing critical community needs through collaboration, support, and impact-driven investments.

Why We Created NFIF

At the Nursey Foundation, we believe in the power of local organizations to create lasting change. Through NFIF, we aim to empower community-based nonprofits and programs that align with our five core pillars:

Mental Health: Supporting services that promote emotional well-being and mental health resources.

Hunger: Addressing food insecurity through initiatives that provide access to nutritious meals.

Homelessness: Funding programs that offer shelter, resources, and long-term solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Foster Care Transitions: Assisting youth as they transition from foster care to independence with mentorship, resources, and support.

Childhood Illness: Supporting initiatives that improve the lives of children facing chronic and acute illnesses.

By prioritizing these focus areas, NFIF aims to build stronger, healthier communities across Tampa Bay.

How the NFIF Grant Process Works

The NFIF grant application process is structured to be fair, transparent and compliant. Here’s what nonprofits can expect:

Phase 1: Initial Application Review

• Applicants submit key programmatic details, a budget breakdown, and essential organizational information.
• Applications are evaluated based on mission alignment, impact potential, feasibility, innovation, and governance.
• Only applicants scoring 70% or higher move to the next phase.

Phase 2: Financial Review

• Eligible applicants provide financial documents, including IRS Form 990s, balance sheets, and revenue statements.
• Our review team assesses fiscal responsibility, sustainability, and financial health.

Board Review and Decision

Applications that pass Phase 2 undergo a final review by our Board of Directors.

Organizations are notified of funding decisions following this review.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for an NFIF grant, applicants must:

• Be a 501(c)(3) public charity in good standing with the IRS
• Have been operational for at least three years with a proven track record of community impact
• Be physically located in the Greater Tampa Bay Area and serve the local community
• Align with at least one of NFIF’s five funding pillars (your organization may operate outside these pillars, as long as the specific program or initiative seeking funding aligns with one of them)
• Submit a complete application with all required documentation
• Ensure your program or project does not require recipients to pay for services
• Submit only one application per year, regardless of the outcome

Key Dates to Remember

NFIF will accept applications on a quarterly basis, with these upcoming dates:

Application Opens: March 3rd

Application Closes: April 11th

Funds Disbursed: First week of July

What Can NFIF Funding Be Used For?

NFIF grants are designed to support programmatic activities, not operational overhead. Funds can be used for:

• Program implementation
• Community outreach initiatives
• Resource development and service delivery
• Training and capacity-building for staff

Funding Restrictions: Grants cannot be used for general operating expenses, capital improvements, debt repayment, or any purpose not outlined in the approved budget.

The Impact We Hope to Achieve

By supporting innovative, community-focused programs, NFIF strives to:

• Improve access to mental health resources for vulnerable populations.
• Reduce food insecurity through partnerships with local food banks and community programs.
• Provide stable, supportive environments for individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Empower foster youth with the skills and support needed for independence.
• Enhance the quality of life for children facing serious health challenges.

Get Involved

Whether you’re part of a nonprofit organization, a community advocate, or simply someone who cares about building a better Tampa Bay, we invite you to join us in this exciting new initiative.

📅 Applications open March 3rd! 💻 Visit our website to learn more and apply.

Together, we can make a meaningful impact—one grant at a time.