Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Funding
By Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation
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Quick Answer
Global venture-philanthropy firm that funds early-stage, high-impact social enterprises with up to US$300,000 in unrestricted grants and three years of hands-on support.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹2.49 Cr
- Funding type
- Grant
- Application deadline
- Rolling
- Location
- International
About this grant
The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation (DRK) is a global venture-philanthropy firm dedicated to supporting early-stage, high-impact social enterprises. DRK provides crucial funding and extensive hands-on support to organizations that are tackling significant social or environmental challenges with scalable solutions. The foundation invests in both non-profit and mission-driven for-profit/hybrid organizations, including B-corps and C-corps, that have moved past the pilot phase and demonstrated proof of traction. Beyond financial capital, DRK commits to a three-year partnership, offering strategic guidance through a dedicated board/portfolio seat and leveraging its extensive network to help enterprises achieve their full potential. This comprehensive approach aims to accelerate the growth and impact of promising social innovations globally, with a specific focus on geographies like India.
Eligibility
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Grant providers
Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation (DRK) is a global venture philanthropy firm that supports early-stage, high-impact social enterprises. Operating in Africa, Europe, India, and the United States, and occasionally in Latin America, DRK provides up to $300,000 USD in unrestricted…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹2.49 Cr
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides up to US$300,000 in unrestricted funding, disbursed over three years, typically in tranches. This substantial capital is complemented by an equivalent of up to US$500,000 in-kind capacity support, encompassing three years of intensive hands-on guidance. Selected social enterprises also benefit from a dedicated board or portfolio seat, offering strategic oversight and direct access to DRK's extensive global network of mentors, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs, significantly enhancing their potential for scalable impact.
- Disbursement
- Tranched
- Duration
- 37 months
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Applications
Rolling basis
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation's investment team. The evaluation focuses on the scalability of the social or environmental solution, the organization's proof of traction, the strength of the leadership team, and its potential for high impact. Shortlisted organizations typically undergo a rigorous due diligence process, which may include interviews, reference checks, and a deeper dive into their operations and financials. Final selections are made by the DRK investment committee, leading to an invitation to join their portfolio.
Application Process
- 1
Submit Application
Submit your comprehensive application through the DRK online portal.
You - 2
- 3
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- 5
How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Line up your documents
Keep every document from the checklist ready in one folder. Missing docs are the #1 reason applications get bounced.
- 4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of organizations does DRK Foundation fund?
DRK Foundation funds early-stage, high-impact social enterprises, including both nonprofits and mission-driven for-profit/hybrid organizations (like B-corps and C-corps), that are past the pilot phase and have demonstrated traction.
What is the funding amount and nature of support?
Selected organizations receive up to US$300,000 in unrestricted funding over three years, typically disbursed in tranches. This non-dilutive capital is augmented by up to US$500,000-equivalent in-kind capacity support, including hands-on guidance, a board/portfolio seat, and access to DRK's extensive global network.
Are there any geographical restrictions?
The program is global, with a specific focus on India as a priority geography. Indian organizations are encouraged to apply.
Is there a deadline for applications?
No, applications are accepted on a rolling basis year-round. There is no fixed deadline for submissions.
What stage should an organization be in to apply?
DRK typically supports early-stage organizations, roughly 3-5 years old, that have moved beyond the pilot phase and can demonstrate proof of traction with strong potential for scalability.
Does DRK take equity in the organizations it funds?
No, the funding provided by DRK is non-dilutive, meaning they do not take an equity stake in the recipient organizations.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
