Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation (DRK) Grants | OpenGrants

Venture Philanthropy

Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation (DRK) Grant Funding

DRK Foundation provides early-stage social enterprises with up to $300,000 in unrestricted capital over three years, plus a board seat and $500,000 in capacity-building support — a venture capital approach to social change.

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$300K

Unrestricted funding over 3 years

280+

Organizations funded since 2002

$500K

In-kind capacity support per grantee

3 yrs

Intensive support period

What Is the DRK Foundation?

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation (DRK) is a venture philanthropy organization founded in 2002 by William H. Draper III and Robin Richards Donohoe, later joined by Robert S. Kaplan in 2010. DRK applies venture capital principles to social impact — providing unrestricted capital, board representation, and intensive operational support to early-stage social enterprises with the potential for transformative impact.

Since its founding, DRK has funded 280+ organizations including Kiva, The Mission Continues, IDEO.org, One Acre Fund, and Recidiviz. Each grantee receives up to $300,000 in unrestricted funding over three years, a DRK board member, and approximately $500,000 in capacity-building resources — making it one of the most hands-on philanthropic partnerships available for early-stage social ventures.

Who is eligible?

DRK funds organizations that are post-pilot and pre-scale — typically 2–5 years old with a program already in market and early evidence of impact. Eligible entities include independent nonprofits, mission-driven for-profits (C corps, B corps), hybrid organizations, and fiscally sponsored projects. Applications are accepted year-round with an 8–10 week initial review period.

What makes DRK different?

DRK's model goes far beyond writing checks. Each grantee receives a dedicated DRK team member who joins their board of directors for three years, providing strategic guidance, network access, and accountability. The $500,000 in capacity-building support includes executive coaching, communications strategy, financial modeling, fundraising support, and peer learning with the DRK portfolio community. Declined applicants can re-apply after one year (up to twice).

Venture Philanthropy Model

DRK applies VC principles to social impact: unrestricted capital, hands-on board involvement, and intensive 3-year support. Up to $300K in funding plus $500K in capacity support. This model has backed transformative organizations like Kiva, One Acre Fund, and IDEO.org.

Learn about DRK

Board Service & Mentorship

Every DRK grantee gets a dedicated DRK team member on their board for 3 years — providing strategic guidance, accountability, network connections, and hands-on support. This level of engagement distinguishes DRK from traditional grant-makers.

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Year-Round Applications

Unlike most foundations, DRK accepts applications year-round. Initial review takes 8–10 weeks. Applicants submit an executive summary or pitch deck addressing specified topics. Existing materials can be reused — no custom formatting required.

Application details

Proven Track Record: 280+ Orgs

DRK's portfolio includes Kiva, The Mission Continues, IDEO.org, One Acre Fund, Taproot Foundation, Food for Education, Shamiri Institute, Recidiviz, and SIRUM. Many have scaled to reach millions of people worldwide.

View portfolio

Essential Resources

ORG

DRK Foundation — Official Site Mission, portfolio, and funding model
TOOL

Apply for Funding Application process, criteria, and submission
DATA

DRK Portfolio Current and past funded organizations
EDU

OpenGrants Find and apply to grant opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DRK Foundation's funding structure?

DRK provides up to $300,000 in unrestricted capital over three years, plus approximately $500,000 in in-kind capacity-building support including executive coaching, communications strategy, financial modeling, and peer learning. Each grantee also receives a dedicated DRK board member.

What stage organizations does DRK fund?

DRK funds post-pilot, pre-scale organizations — typically 2–5 years old with a program already in market and early evidence of impact. They seek organizations that have proven their model works and are ready to scale, but haven't yet reached large-scale operations.

Can for-profit companies apply to DRK?

Yes. DRK funds mission-driven for-profits (C corps, B corps), hybrid organizations, and fiscally sponsored projects in addition to traditional nonprofits. The key criterion is social impact potential, not legal structure.

How long does the DRK application process take?

Applications are accepted year-round. Initial review takes 8–10 weeks on average. Applicants submit an executive summary or pitch deck addressing specified topics — existing materials can be reused. If declined, organizations can re-apply after one year (up to twice).

How does OpenGrants help with venture philanthropy applications?

OpenGrants matches your social enterprise to relevant venture philanthropy opportunities including DRK and similar funders. Access expert grant writers and live support to craft compelling applications that demonstrate your impact and scalability.

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