Dear ,

Welcome to the Summer 2011 issue of NSP Update.  This edition includes information about larger organizations now being eligible for some NSP grants, as well as NSP's recently completed evaluation.  In partnership with the Hartford Foundation, the Hartford Public Library will be offering another Building & Sustaining Your Nonprofit workshop for smaller organizations.

We hope you find this issue helpful.  As always, we welcome your feedback.  Let us know what you think by contacting us at nsp@hfpg.org or 860-548-1888.

NSP Completes Evaluation

An evaluation of NSP's programs and grantmaking was completed this spring.  The evaluation was conducted by Technical Development Corporation (TDC) in Boston.  It included in-depth interviews with agencies that make frequent use of NSP's offerings; national leaders in organizational capacity building; consultants who regularly work with nonprofits; and staff and leadership of the Hartford Foundation. 

The study found that NSP is well-regarded by grantees, colleagues, consultants and peer-capacity providers and that it has, over the years, had a consistent, significant and positive influence on the capacity building of the region's nonprofits.

Based on their findings, the consultants recommended that NSP review and make adjustments to several of its existing programs.  These modifications would aim to update and improve the programs.  The consultants also recommended that NSP consider adjusting the way it currently measures outcomes. 

Download an executive summary of TDC's report, including recommendations and methodology.   

If you are interested in the entire report, please contact us at

nsp@hfpg.org. 

Larger Agencies Now Eligible
for NSP Grants

Based on a review of NSP's programs, our recent program evaluation, and feedback from local agencies, the Hartford Foundation's board recently voted to expand eligibility for some of NSP's grant programs.

Financial Management Program

The maximum budget size of organizations eligible to apply for this program has been increased to $8 million.  Agencies with budgets between $300,000 and $8 million may now apply for the program, which includes the opportunity to apply for a grant of up to $50,000.  The Financial Management Program helps organizations to improve their financial systems through a combination of assessments, grants and consultation.

You may find additional information on NSP's website.

Nonprofit Business Analyses are now available to eligible organizations of any size.  The NBA is ideal for organizations considering or experiencing significant change.  It can be particularly helpful to organizations analyzing or reconsidering their business model and/or their physical facilities.  

Additional information on the NBA may be found here.

Strategic Technology Program

The maximum budget size of organizations eligible to apply for this program has been increased to $8 million.  Agencies with budgets up to $8 million may apply for the program, which includes the opportunity to apply for a grant of up to $50,000.  The Strategic Technology Program is designed to help agencies plan for and use technology strategically, and focuses on the development of a multi-year strategic technology plan for your organization.     

You may find additional information on NSP's website.   

Building & Sustaining Your Nonprofit

The Nonprofit Support Program is partnering with the Hartford Public Library to provide a periodic workshop for smaller nonprofit organizations that are interested in building a solid foundation. 

The workshop is led by Martey Rhine of Management Solutions & Resources, and covers the basics of building a board, budgeting, planning, marketing and fundraising.  The session provides useful tools and tips for effectively structuring your nonprofit and enhancing your ability to achieve its mission. 

The next session will take place on Wednesday, June 22 from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the Hartford Public Library.  Registration is required and may be completed online, or by calling 860-695-6295.