Program empowers small nonprofits to expand their impact  

Wilmington, DE – DANA, the Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement, has officially opened the application period for the second cohort of its Nonprofit Accelerator Program. Nonprofits across Delaware are invited to apply for this opportunity. 

The three-year program, running from 2024 to 2027, aims to empower small nonprofits dedicated to serving historically underserved communities in Delaware. Selected nonprofit leaders will work together to address distinctive obstacles faced by their organizations, which often struggle due to limited scale and resources, hindering their ability to maximize impact.  

Key components of the Accelerator Program include in-depth organizational assessments, tailored workshops, participation in an exclusive executive peer-to-peer cohort, one-on-one consulting and coaching sessions, and administrative guidance. Each nonprofit will be assigned an Accelerator Navigator from the DANA team to assist with access to essential resources. Dedicated staff and consultant partners will lend their expertise to assist nonprofit boards of directors, executive leaders, and staff members. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage in knowledge-sharing sessions with fellow nonprofit leaders, fostering a supportive environment for collective growth. 

Sheila Bravo, President & CEO of DANA, emphasizes the crucial role of nonprofits in Delaware. “Smaller organizations are providing critical services day to day in local communities, yet they struggle to meet escalating service demands while navigating the complexities of sustaining day-to-day operations. Through this program, DANA aims to provide vital support to help these nonprofits fortify their leadership capabilities, build organizational strength, and advance their missions within their communities,” she says.  

Accelerator Cohort One participant Kim Leisey, Executive Director of CAMP Rehoboth stated that “The Accelerator Program has been an excellent resource and support for our Board of Directors, staff, and me.  As a nonprofit that has been in existence for over 30 years the Accelerator Program is helping to ensure that we are sustainable and a source of positive change over the next thirty years. The consultants, programs and learning are an excellent investment in our work and community.” 

Ideal candidates for the program are organizations that have been operational for at least three years, led by a paid full-time executive director, and maintain a budget below $3 million. Seats are limited. DANA, in collaboration with nonprofit leaders and an advisory council, has established a selection process to ensure the readiness of each organization to participate. The application window will remain open until July 31st, offering interested nonprofits the opportunity to apply for this transformative program.  

Visit delawarenonprofit.org/accelerator for more information or to apply. 

### 

DANA is committed to strengthening, enhancing, and advancing the nonprofit sector by providing low-cost professional development, consulting, and advocacy support for nonprofit leaders and boards of directors. For more information, visit DANA’s website at www.DelawareNonprofit.org.