About The Draper Richards Kaplan (DRK) Foundation provides catalytic support to early-stage social impact organizations working to solve some of the world’s most urgent social and environmental problems. With a focus on bold, scalable solutions, DRK funds mission-driven, impact-first ventures that are ready to move from pilot to scale. DRK accepts applications year-round, with no submission deadline, making it a flexible and accessible opportunity for emerging leaders in the social sector. What DRK Funds DRK seeks to invest in organizations that are: Problem-first: Addressing urgent social or environmental challenges in ways that serve underserved or marginalized populations Systemic in approach: Working within or alongside existing systems, institutions, or infrastructure to drive sustained impact Scalable: Capable of directly impacting a minimum of 10,000 lives within five years, with ambitions for exponential growth Geographically aligned: Based in or operating within Africa, Europe, India, and the United States (Latin America considered in select cases) Independent entities: Structured as nonprofit or mission-driven for-profit entities (e.g. 501(c)(3), B Corporations, C Corporations, or similar), including fiscally sponsored initiatives with a plan to spin out Financially sustainable: Demonstrating or developing a growable stream of earned income to support future operations Data-driven: Grounded in measurable impact, with pilot evidence that shows clear benefit to target populations Who DRK Funds DRK typically funds early-stage organizations, specifically those that are: Post-pilot and pre-scale Already delivering programs or services in the field Demonstrating initial impact through real-world use and outcomes Relatively young (usually between 2–5 years old, but flexibility is applied) For for-profit ventures, DRK supports organizations at the Seed to Series A stage, but does not lead funding rounds or participate in raises exceeding a $15 million USD post-money valuation. What DRK Looks for in a Team Founders and leadership teams must demonstrate: Full-time commitment or a clear intent to go full-time soon Innovative thinking, leveraging systems and resources creatively Proximity to the problem, with lived or deeply informed experience A learning stance, constantly testing, adapting, and improving their model A collaborative mindset, ready to engage in a hands-on, three-year relationship with DRK’s team Who is Not Eligible DRK does not fund: Idea-stage or pre-product initiatives Organizations post-Series A Programs focused solely on advocacy, awareness, research, or policy change Projects without a direct intervention component Place-based initiatives without plans for scaling Programs not focused on measurable impact or those lacking an impact framework Entities like S-Corps, Partnerships, LLCs, 501(c)(4) organizations, or investment funds Initiatives promoting religious doctrine How DRK Supports Selected Organizations 1. Capacity Building DRK provides deep, long-term operational support over a three-year period, often valued at over $500,000 USD in in-kind services. Each portfolio organization is matched with a senior DRK team member who serves on its board and works closely with the leadership team on: Strategy and scaling Fundraising and financial modeling Talent and leadership development Governance and board strengthening Weekly engagements and targeted technical support ensure that grantees are supported as they navigate their growth journey. 2. Capital Investment DRK invests up to $300,000 USD in unrestricted grant funding or investment capital, typically disbursed in multiple tranches over the three-year support period. The structure of the investment is tailored through discussions with the organization during the onboarding phase. 3. Community Connection Portfolio organizations gain access to DRK’s global community of fellows, funders, and alumni. DRK hosts: An annual three-day portfolio retreat Ongoing community events, networking opportunities, and knowledge exchange forums One-on-one introductions and peer learning moments across sectors and geographies Application Process DRK accepts applications on a rolling basis. Interested organizations can submit their application through DRK’s website at any time. While DRK receives over 2,200 applications annually, only about 20 organizations are selected each year, making the process highly competitive. Important Notes DRK does not reinvest in portfolio organizations after the three-year term Applicants must be prepared to engage deeply with DRK’s team DRK is focused on organizations with clear pathways to scale, measurable impact, and a financially sustainable model Contact and More Information For full application guidelines or to submit an application, visit the DRK Foundation website. Explore DRK’s 2024 portfolio, review success stories, or sign up for updates through the foundation’s newsletter. For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the oganization offering the funding. For any inquiries, please contact the funding organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.