simple giving for bold ideas
Once a year, Nest offers a $2,500 micro grant for doers, makers and disruptors.
We make it easy. Because, giving simply is simply giving, and small boosts can create big impact.
Applications for the current round are OPEN through September 30th. Apply now!
How It Works
Three steps. No kidding.
- Share your idea. In 300 words or less, tell us what your project is, who it serves, your timeline, and your budget. Keep it simple.
- Keep it local. Your project must happen in or serve DC, Takoma Park, Hyattsville, Chevy Chase, or Mt. Rainier — and be wrapped up within three months from when you receive the grant.
- Hit submit. That’s it. No strings. Not one
Where Our Grants Landed
We’ve sponsored murals, stocked diverse library books for under-resourced schools, chipped in for a tractor for a veteran farmer, and backed a small group that throws birthday parties for children experiencing homelessness. We’ve helped a local entrepreneur package his DC-specific hot sauce, underwritten a bicycle repair station in Southeast where none existed, and partnered with an organization to provide carbon monoxide and smoke detectors for seniors East of the River.
And we know there’s more out there to invest in.
Is it your idea?
community impact
for doers, makers and disruptors making an impact in our communities
no strings, not one
no catch, no red tape. just $2,500 to hatch your idea.
dc + md
funding for DC and metro MD
annually
subscribe below to be notified of the next giving round
meet our summer 2024 hatch! microgrant winners!
DC
Bunker Hill Elementary Parent Teacher Organization with "Garden to Classroom" Enhancement Initiative This project just got a hatch! boost to transform this NE DC school's garden into a dynamic outdoor learning space. Soon, students will be building picnic tables, creating weatherproof art, and getting hands-on lessons in plant care. It's all about turning a simple garden into a vibrant classroom where education, creativity, and nature grow together.
MD
Good Trouble Think Tank with "Your Voice & Your Vote Matters in 2024" Video Campaign With their hatch! boost, this team is set to create an inspiring video targeting Hyattsville's young adults and first-time voters. Their goal? To make sure every voice is heard in the 2024 election. This project is all about energizing the community and showing that every vote truly counts.
faq
Q: Why is Nest DC giving money away?
A: Cool things happen when you share resources without creating stress. Also, we believe in supporting the community that supports our business. In tangible ways.
Q: What is a doer, maker or disruptor?
A: You tell us! Present a project you can complete in three months. Think food, art, culture, education. We have on $2,500 grant for a DC project - and another grant for Maryland. Some examples of former grantees are described below.
Q. What’s the money for?
A. You tell us! We’ve supported murals, community gatherings, bicycle repair stations, birthday parties for homeless kids and more. If your project is underway, that’s okay. You can still submit.
Q. Do I have to be a non-profit to apply?
A. Definitely not. You don’t need to be a business either. Be yourself and apply based on your project
Q. Do I have to do a report or do a presentation to get the grant?
A. Nope. Spend the money, go about your business. We’d love a picture and shout out - and we’ll talk about your project in our socials.
Q. Who decides?
A. We have a diverse team of volunteer Nesters who review and score applications. That committee selects the top candidate. Nobody you know can review your application.
Q: I have some more questions that are not answered on this page, who should I talk to?
A: We love that you are so interested in our micro grant! Please email us at hatch@nest-dc.com to get your other questions answered.
keep in touch and in the know!
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