Commerce Launches Free Resource To Guide Maryland Nonprofits

Maryland’s nonprofit organizations have a new resource in navigating State processes and funding opportunities. The Maryland Department of Commerce’s Nonprofit Navigator offers support to help organizations navigate red tape and focus on serving their communities.

The Nonprofit Navigator is a free State resource within the Maryland Department of Commerce offering direct assistance for nonprofits serving Marylanders. The resource is aiming to help organizations overcome administrative roadblocks and support them in securing funding.

The Nonprofit Navigator provides:

  • Hands-On Help: Assistance with State grant applications and review of final drafts of all other proposals.
  • Problem-Solving: Resolution of procedural roadblocks after an award is made, especially payment delays or contractual/administrative snags, with awarded State grants.
  • Grant Search Expertise: One-on-one support to assist nonprofits with finding relevant Federal, State, Local, and Private funding opportunities for their mission.

According to the Department of Commerce’s testimony on the legislation establishing the Nonprofit Navigator, there are over 40,000 registered nonprofit organizations in Maryland.

From the Department’s testimony:

In December, Governor Wes Moore announced the establishment of the Governor’s Office of Business Advancement (GOBA) within Commerce. GOBA is intended to guide businesses – including non-profits – through the state’s economic development ecosystem. The office will provide a wide range of services from assistance with navigating state permitting requirements to troubleshooting issues with state agencies and identifying financial incentives to close deals. The nonprofit Navigator will provide similar services to nonprofits by providing technical assistance in working with State agencies and applying for grant funding.

Sign up for the newsletter on monthly grant opportunities.

Request a direct meeting for technical assistance or support in navigating State grant processes.

Read the fiscal and policy note on the Nonprofit Organizations Navigator legislation.