Helping charities in their service to Rhode Island and its people.
The capital projects that are funded by Champlin are often behind-the-scenes but always essential: a new roof at a Boys and Girls Club, a HVAC system at a food bank, technology for a library. We are proud to provide support for hundreds of nonprofits in Rhode Island so they can focus on their mission.
Every day, in some way it happens.
Whether strengthening the safety net, modernizing medicine, or inspiring the next young dreamer, nonprofits that apply to Champlin touch all Rhode Islanders. The applications we receive are a profound testament to the organizations and individuals who have dedicated themselves to improving our community.
Public libraries, hospitals, schools, nature preserves, museums, social service organizations, and beyond—every year, our grants provide funding for a diverse range of capital projects and needs. Our goal is always the same: improving the lives of Rhode Islanders. To see different types of requests Champlin has recently funded, look through the Annual Reports.
Welfare of Animals
Sadly, animals have the same ability to suffer as humans. Our support of well-established regional organizations that offer care, adoption services, medical treatment, and more helps ensure that more animals across the state are healthy, well-nourished, and free from distress.
Stories of impact
Arts & Culture
Creative expression enables greater understanding and a deeper perspective of our society. Artists give voice, spark imagination, and inspire. Creative communities are economic drivers. Supporting theaters, museums, music groups, and other arts organizations provides access for children and adults to enjoy Rhode Island’s exceptional artists and arts organizations.
Stories of impact
Conservation & Parks
As the nation’s second most densely populated state, open space is a precious, priceless resource in Rhode Island. Preserves and parks contribute mightily to the high quality of life enjoyed in the Ocean State, which is why working with land trusts, conservancies, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, The Nature Conservancy, and others has been a priority for the foundation.
Stories of impact
Education
Our young are a reflection of what our future will be. This is why Champlin maintains a focus on supporting those organizations and schools that provide equitable access to experience and learning—in the classroom, after school, or beyond. Whether it is funding equipment for classroom innovation or grants toward building infrastructure, for preparatory and enrichment programs or independent and charter schools, it all plays a role in Champlin’s grant strategy.
Stories of impact
Healthcare
Every Rhode Islander deserves equal access to quality, affordable healthcare and a strong public health system in our state. This means ensuring that our local hospitals, community health centers, treatment centers, and other nonprofit healthcare providers have the infrastructure and state-of-the-art equipment needed to provide quality care and service to all, regardless of the patient’s background or zip code.
Stories of impact
Historic Preservation & Heritage
Learning from the past contributes mightily to understanding the present. Rhode Islanders respect and treasure their history—from First Nations, Colonial era, and the Industrial Revolution through the Great Wars. Historic homes, landmark locations, and museums are one reason Rhode Island is a fascinating place to live and visit.
Stories of impact
Libraries
In the 21st century, libraries have evolved into hubs for education, professional development, and community engagement. In many communities, the local library also serves as an after-school haven and the access point to technology for young and old. With programming that fosters creativity, innovation, and dialogue, libraries across Rhode Island remain a home for knowledge and meaningful connection.
Stories of impact
Social Services
We see and support the often-invisible heroes in our communities, whose efforts are providing our most vulnerable and marginalized populations with food, shelter, education, job training, and more. We are committed to keeping these essential agencies and organizations strong.
Stories of impact
Youth Services
The Champlin family recognized the importance of investing in the young—the future leaders of industry, community, and government. From Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs to Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, summer camps, and career and leadership development, supporting the organizations that help them to develop physically and mentally is a cornerstone of the Foundation.
Stories of impact1210
The number of individual organizations that have received Champlin funding since 1932
291
The average number of applications Champlin receives annually requesting support
10
The number of organizations and agencies receiving a grant from Champlin for the first time in 2024
Improving lives and building communities.
In 85 years of supporting the capital needs of nonprofits from Westerly to Woonsocket, the impact of Champlin grantees has been widespread and profound. We are proud to share some of the stories of the people and organizations who are in the community and making an extraordinary difference in the lives of their neighbors.
If you’d like to share a story about the impact your organization has had thanks to Champlin Foundation funding, please email office@champlinfoundation.org. Please include any high-resolution photos you would like to share on our website or in our annual report.
Application Process
The Champlin Foundation uses a web-based grant application hosted by Foundant Technologies, Inc. Prior to entering the portal, be sure that you have read and understand the guidelines and policies outlined here. Once you have gained access to the portal, you will be able to update your contact information, review your organization’s request history, and apply for a grant.
As most communications are now done electronically, please remember to update the system should your information change at any time. If you have questions about accessing the portal or navigating the online application, please call or email our Grants & Systems Manager, Heather Fraser, at 401-944-9200 x115 or hfraser@champlinfoundation.org.