Changing How People Think
Canopy is a cooperatively run 501c3 that encourages an entrepreneurial approach to improving our world. We support exceptional people doing extraordinary work through grants and fiscal sponsorship of individuals.
If you have a project idea that you think fits our mission, please apply today!
Small is Beautiful
Canopy is most appropriate for clearly defined, limited time projects. Grant rewards are made to existing 501c3 organizations while Sponsored Canopy projects are independently managed by individuals who have successful applied to be Project Directors. Directors work with an existing Canopy "Champion" as guide and mentor, but are given wide latitude to act as independent agents of change through their approved, chosen project under the Canopy umbrella. Project Directors may apply to use existing Canopy funds or bring their own funding to the project, using Canopy as their 501(c)(3) Fiscal Sponsor.
Cooperatively Run
Canopy is managed by the people running the projects. We use formalized peer-based oversight, coaching and new project selection to keep projects relevant and on track. This allows for a leaner operation while building capacity and connections between otherwise independent directors. Canopy Project Directors cooperatively make organizational level operating and management decisions in coordination with the Canopy Board.
Improving our World
Canopy supports projects that will make a positive difference to our environment and communities. We champion individuals whose project ideas may generate the greatest benefit for the amount of support we can offer, especially in the fields of agriculture, forestry and education. Sometimes just a nudge with a little funding makes a difference in changing how we think. In other cases, support through our technical expertise, connections or the use of the Canopy 501(c)(3) structure to receive and manage outside grant/foundation funding are most helpful.
100% of Donated Funds go to Project Expenses
Projects sometimes incur staff, accounting or legal expenses directly needed for the success of that individual project but all the expenses, and overhead costs associated with the operation and management of the Canopy organization itself are covered by Canopy Board members.