Now Accepting Class Project Proposals

Leadership Tri-Cities is now accepting Class Project Proposals for our upcoming class!

Are you a local non-profit with a project that could make a lasting impact in the Tri-Cities community? We want to hear from you!

Each year, our class selects a project that allows them to give back in a meaningful, hands-on way. If your organization has a need that aligns with our mission of cultivating informed, connected, and engaged community leaders, this is your chance to partner with us!

Request for Proposals (RFP) 

Community Service Class Project 

I. Introduction

Leadership Tri-Cities (LTC) invites proposals from qualified nonprofit organizations and other charitable agencies in Benton and Franklin Counties to be considered for the Class Community Service Project. The selected project will be planned and executed by members of the current class and will be designed to provide a meaningful, lasting impact for the partner organization and the community at large.

II. About Leadership Tri-Cities

Established in 1994, Leadership Tri-Cities is a nonprofit organization dedicated to identifying, developing, and connecting community leaders. Each year, 25 individuals participate in an 11-month leadership program consisting of monthly sessions, community engagement, and a culminating class project.

The Class Project is a signature component of the program. It allows participants to apply their leadership skills, collaborate with community partners, and contribute to the improvement of the Tri-Cities region. Past projects have included facility renovations, technology enhancements, and community enrichment initiatives.

III. Eligibility

Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria: 

1. Be a nonprofit organization or charitable agency located in Benton or Franklin County, Washington.

2. Demonstrate the capacity to partner effectively with the current LTC Class to complete the proposed project by the class June graduation. 

3. Class and board member organizations are welcome to apply, noting that no special preference will be given and abstention votes will be required by those with a conflict of interest. 

   
   

IV. Project Scope and Budget Parameters

Projects should:

• Align with and advance the mission of the applicant organization.

• Deliver a tangible and sustainable benefit to the organization and/or community.

• Provide hands-on engagement opportunities for the current LTC class members.

  Be feasible for completion within final five months of the class year (January – May).

• Fall within one of the following budget categories:

  • $0 – $10,000

  • $10,000 – $20,000

  • $20,000+

Funds for the project will be raised by the LTC Class under the LTC non-profit. While LTC is committed to supporting the project financially, applicants should recognize that funds cannot be guaranteed until raised.

V. Proposal Requirements

Proposals must be submitted in a single PDF document and include the following information:

A. Organizational Information

1. Legal Name of Organization

2. Mission Statement

3. Description of Programs and Services

4. IRS Tax ID Number (EIN) and UBI

5. Primary Contact Information (Name, Title, Phone Number, Email Address)

   
   

B. Project Information

1. Project Title

2. Project Description (scope of work, activities, and deliverables)

3. Explanation of how the project will benefit your organization and the community

4. Estimated Budget and indication of which funding category applies:

   • $0 – $10,000

   • $10,000 – $20,000

   • $20,000+

5. Proposed Timeline (must be achievable by the class graduation)

6. Description of anticipated role and responsibilities of LTC class members

7. Description of support/resources your organization will provide to ensure project success (e.g., staff involvement, materials, permits, etc.)

   
   

VI. Submission Instructions

• Deadline for Submission: October 9, 2026

• Submission Format: One (1) PDF document emailed to the address below

• Submission Email: Anne Spilman, ExecutiveDirector 

• Email:anne@leadershiptricities.com

Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

VII. Review and Selection Process

Proposals will be reviewed by the Leadership Tri-Cities Board of Directors. Finalist organizations may be invited to present their proposals to the class prior to final selection.

Selection will be based on the following criteria:

1. Alignment with LTC’s mission and values.

2. Potential community impact.

3. Feasibility of project scope within the short timeline.

4. Appropriate fit within budget parameters.

5. Level of engagement opportunities for class members.

   
   

VIII. Contact for Questions

Questions regarding this RFP may be directed to:

Anne Spilman Executive Director, Leadership Tri-Cities 

Email: anne@leadershiptricities.com 

Website: leadershiptricities.org

IX. Timeline

• Proposal Submission Deadline: October 9, 2026

• Finalist Presentations (if requested): October/November 

• Project Selection: November 

• Project Completion: Class Graduation – June 9, 2027

Leadership Tri-Cities looks forward to collaborating with many community partners to create a lasting and meaningful impact through the Community Service Project. Thank you for all you do for the Tri-Cities community.