Submitted by the Orcas Island Community Foundation.

The Orcas Island Community Foundation is excited to announce that applications are now being accepted for the Winter 2026 Leadership, Excellence, Advancement, and Development Grant Program.

The LEAD Grant Program, which first launched last summer, was created in an effort to support professional development for Orcas Island-based nonprofit organizations. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for financial support for continuing education and professional development programs that will strengthen their team’s leadership skills and promote organizational excellence.

LEAD grant applications will be considered for funding of up to $2,000 per individual, and a maximum of $6,000 per organization, per grant program year. The LEAD Grant Program year is July through June and includes two cycles. Grant funds may be used to cover the cost of continuing education and professional development programs, including registration fees for online and in-person training, conferences and/or related travel expenses. Detailed eligibility criteria and information about applying for grants can be found at https://oicf.us/lead-grants/.

LEAD grants are made possible by generous donations to the Hilary Canty Leadership Fund, which was established to provide educational and experiential opportunities for those interested in improving their understanding of the leadership skills practiced by successful nonprofits, and to the Marilyn Anderson Excellence Fund, which was established to promote nonprofit excellence. Contributions are welcome at www.oicf.us/donate.

The deadline to complete the application and submit the required documents is 5 p.m. on Feb. 9. Applicant questions can be directed to OICF Grants Manager Lynn White at lynn@oicf.us.