Hosted September 2025
On September 4th, we came together for a powerful conversation about what’s next for nonprofits navigating today’s challenging funding and advocacy landscape. With nearly 700 applications to our 2025 Building Capacity for Health Advocacy program, this session was designed to share what we learned, highlight trends shaping philanthropy, and create space for nonprofit leaders to connect with one another.
Not This Round—But Not the End
lessons Rx Foundation’s 2025 Building Capacity for Health Advocacy Grant Cycle
Not This Round—But Not the End: Tools, Tips & Community for What’s Next was convened in response to the overwhelming interest in Rx Foundation’s 2025 Building Capacity for Health Advocacy grant program. With nearly 700 applications submitted—and only a limited number able to be funded—we felt a responsibility to create a space for connection, reflection, and shared learning.
This session brought together nonprofit leaders and philanthropic partners to “look behind the curtain” of grantmaking, highlight shifts in the funding landscape, and offer practical strategies for strengthening proposals and partnerships. More than a review of applications, the conversation was about sustaining community, lifting up smaller wins as part of larger advocacy goals, and exploring how health, democracy, and justice are deeply interconnected.
Watch the Recording
Key Takeaways
Our panelists brought a wide range of experience and wisdom to the discussion:
- David Martinez III (Vitalyst Health Foundation) reflected on lessons from the review process and the importance of smaller wins and hyperlocal leadership.
- Steve Paprocki (Access Philanthropy) provided perspective on broader philanthropic trends, noting that while the field shifts every few years, priorities like health access and DEI remain central.
- José Morales (Democracy Fund) reminded us that health and democracy are deeply connected, and encouraged nonprofits to “get curious” about new and unlikely partnerships.
- Cara James (Grantmakers in Health) highlighted philanthropy’s critical role in minimizing risks for grantees and shaping narratives, even as government funding becomes less reliable.
Audience Q&A: Not This Round—But Not the End
We know there were more thoughtful questions from participants than we had time to cover live. We’ve gathered answers and insights here:
Funding Priorities
Q: What do you feel is needed to move philanthropy toward general operating support, rather than just talking about it?
A: Many in philanthropy are calling for a shift from program-specific to general operating support, whether as part of a trust-based approach or to simplify grantmaking. Nonprofits can strengthen their case by telling a cohesive story that connects organizational milestones and metrics directly to their overall budget. Too often, proposals still frame requests as project-based even when funders are looking to invest in capacity.
Resource: Fund the People: Long-Haul Grantmaking Report
“Applicants are often doing the most with the least—connecting milestones to capacity will make the case for general support stronger.” — David Martinez III
Q: Corporate funders are asking us to remove “DEI” from project names to receive support. Is this a trend?
A: There’s no single answer. Some foundations have asked grantees to alter project language, while others are doubling down on commitments to racial equity. Nonprofits should research potential funders to understand their current stance and tailor their approach accordingly.
“While some are pulling back, many funders are doubling down. DEI is not going away.” — Steve Paprocki
Building Partnerships
Q: How can organizations get on the radar of funders who don’t accept applications?
A: A strong way to build visibility is by being good stewards of current funder relationships. Go beyond formal reports by sharing updates, media mentions, and success stories. Invite funders to be thought partners. When funders talk about standout organizations in their networks, these organic mentions often open doors to new opportunities.
“The water is warm for partnership—engage funders as thought partners, not just grantmakers.” — José Morales
Q: How can large, national nonprofits position themselves as “worthy grantees” when working with local partners?
A: Large organizations need to show—not just tell—that they are valued partners. Funders may ask: Who are you accountable to? How do you determine local partners’ needs? How are resources shared? Demonstrating authentic partnership and accountability is key. Remember: funders also review your 990s—what story does your budget tell about how you use resources?
Measuring Impact
Q: How are foundations using AI tools like ChatGPT?
A: Many funders are experimenting with AI to review applications, analyze data, and streamline processes.
- Candid: Funders’ Insights on AI
- Chronicle of Philanthropy: Vetting Grantees with AI
- AHP: Practical AI Tools
Answered Live During the Session
Q: Who are potential partners and funders supporting public health advocacy and public policy, especially around science and combating misinformation?
A: The Impala & Democracy Funders Network’s U.S. Democracy Hub is a great clearinghouse of funders in this space.
Q: What makes a community organization appear stronger to funders?
A: Funders often look for evidence of small but meaningful policy wins. For example, Vitalyst Health Foundation’s 2023 partner, Activate Food Arizona, successfully advanced SNAP policy to support online purchases while building systems that connect local farmers to markets. Incremental wins like these demonstrate both proof of concept and long-term vision.
“Policy takes time, but small victories—like stopping a harmful bill or shifting an agency protocol—are proof of progress.” — David Martinez
Q: What’s a best practice for creating sustainable plans and diversifying revenue streams?
A: Think in terms of “mission moments.” Even if a funder doesn’t explicitly support advocacy, your outcomes may align with their mission. For example, advocacy to ensure children are counted in the Census can connect to early childhood funders concerned with equitable access to healthcare and education.
Continuing the Conversation
While this round of funding could not include every applicant, the conversation reminded us that our shared work is bigger than any single grant cycle. By lifting up lessons, resources, and stories from across the field, we continue to strengthen the network of leaders advancing health, equity, and justice. We invite you to stay connected, share your own tools and experiences, and join us in upcoming gatherings as we keep learning, building, and imagining what’s possible.
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