Space Grant FAQ

Grace Farms provides a platform for not-for-profits, offering a supportive place for organizations to foster new partnerships, actively participate in the Foundation’s programming, advance their work by utilizing meeting space, or simply enjoy the expansive landscape and River building. As a ‘type b’ place in a ‘type a’ world, Grace Farms inspires not-for-profit organizations to think creatively and reframe the work they are doing. Individuals often leave with a sense of renewal and connectedness with colleagues, motivating organizations to continue their meaningful work.

What is a space grant?

As a new kind of public space committed to advancing good in the world, Grace Farms believes that offering our space to not-for-profit organizations is central to our mission. These grants of space, offered to support not-for-profits on the front lines of service, include access to the River building, barns, grounds, and Foundation team. By serving as a nexus for these organizations, Grace Farms seeks to foster collaboration, promote charitable work, and contribute to human flourishing.

Who can apply for a space grant?

In order to apply for a space grant, you must be a registered not-for-profit or 501c3 organization. Organizations directly connected with one or more of the Foundation’s five initiatives — nature, arts, justice, community, and faith— may benefit from the professional program space available within the River building, our meeting spaces within the West barn, or our 80 acres of open landscape.

How can I apply for a Space grant and when are these applications reviewed?

Organizations looking to participate in the Space Grant Program at Grace Farms may apply by submitting a Space Grant Application online. Inquiries are reviewed and accepted on a quarterly basis.

Are there any restrictions on the timing of events that occur through space grants?

Space grants may take place Tuesday – Friday, 10 am – 6 pm. At times, we are able to accommodate special requests, but please note that this is not always feasible. Some Saturday and evening programs are available on a limited basis. The Foundation will do its best to accommodate proposed event dates based on the availability of space on the requested day(s) and the time(s) requested.

What kinds of events related to my not-for-profit can I host at Grace Farms through a space grant?

Space Grant partners at Grace Farms use their gift of space for a variety of kinds of events— staff and board retreats, trainings, capacity-building programs, and workshops, among others. Grace Farms is unable to host fundraisers, performances, galas and for-profit organizations, at this time. While most Space Grants host smaller groups (under 50 participants), we do offer a limited number of larger space grants each year to organizations that wish to host larger trainings, invited speaker panels, and public convenings. At this time, we do not host outside organizations on Sundays and we are closed to the public on Mondays.

How much does a space grant cost?

The cost of the use of space at Grace Farms is waived for not-for-profit organizations. In lieu of monetary support, we offer the gift of space which includes the use of a meeting room in the West Barn or a volume in the River building, basic AV/IT support, and assistance with room set-up from our on-site Facilities team. A space grant also provides organizations opportunities to network with other not-for-profit partners, including invitations to curated roundtable discussions. All food and beverage costs and any extensive production costs will be the financial responsibility of the organization.

What other benefits do I get out of being a Grace Farms space grant recipient?

The Community Initiative proactively curates gatherings of not-for-profit partners throughout the year in the form of focused roundtable discussions and seasonal networking opportunities. Intentional proximity and strategic dialogue have led to critical discussions resulting in shared strategies and mutual support. Roundtable dialogues have brought together grant-making organizations, special needs organizations, and women changemakers.