To be eligible for LEAP, groups should be or have the following:

• A local, state or regional nonprofit working on environmental issues
• An environmental justice organization, environmental activist organization, or network or coalition made up of and formed by environmental justice and/or activist groups 
• A full-time paid Executive Director or lead staff person who will have been with the organization for two years by the time they enter the LEAP Program
• A 501(c)3 designation or fiscal sponsor  (LEAP groups do not need to have their own nonprofit status)
• A budget between $50,000 - $500,000
• A record of environmental accomplishments and activities

Priority is given to groups that demonstrate the following:

• Serve low-income people and/or people of color, reflecting this constituency among their leadership

• Work in states or on issues for which ESC currently has restricted grant obligations

 Organizations that are accepted for LEAP cover a range of sizes, ages and stages of development.  We select groups who display the greatest need and ability to make good use of LEAP. 

Some things we look for include:

• Commitment of key leaders in making an organizational transition

• Readiness for long-term change, particularly through LEAP

• The financial capacity to cover expenses

• Time to dedicate towards managing consultants and receiving training

• Although have a need for change or improvement, are not in a state of crisis

Apply to our Leadership and Enhanced Assistance Program here

Back to the LEAP Program Description