In the intricate landscape of nonprofit support, some of the most critical needs often go unnoticed. This is the story of how one innovative grant helped transform a dance organization’s future by embracing a radical approach to philanthropy.
Traditional grantmaking often constrains nonprofit leaders, forcing them into narrow funding categories that may not address their most pressing challenges. That’s why, in 2024, social innovation company Next Stage sought to change this narrative through a unique $10,000 grant initiative: The UnFundable Project.
The project emerged from the company’s steadfast belief in the power of trust-based philanthropy, a funding approach that encourages grantors to give nonprofit leaders more freedom in figuring out how to fulfill their missions. The initiative’s goal was to support the need of a nonprofit that fell outside conventional funding models.
Caroline Calouche, the Executive Director of Carouline Calouche & Co.
The recipient of the inaugural award was Caroline Calouche & Co., a Charlotte-based arts organization that aims to build community through dance and circus arts. Their request? An essential but often overlooked need — funding to pay off a credit card used to replace a damaged sprung floor.
One year later, we caught up with the nonprofit’s founder and artistic director, Caroline Calouche, to learn about the impact of the grant and hear what’s next for the organization as it approaches another exciting milestone.
Addressing a Critical, Yet “UnFundable” Need
A youth dance performance at Caroline Calouche & Co.
When Caroline applied for The UnFundable Project, the need was clear but unconventional by typical grantmaking standards. The organization’s sprung floor — a critical piece of equipment for both their professional performing company and dance and circus arts school — had been damaged and required replacement. “We had taken out a credit card to cover the cost of replacing the floor, and we’d been trying to defer interest through balance transfers as long as possible,” Caroline continued.
The specialized sprung floor absorbs shocks and provides a cushioned surface to reduce injuries and enhance performance. And given the organization’s dual purpose of serving both youth and adult students, the floor is in constant use and plays a pivotal role in their artistic mission. By eliminating the financial burden associated with the floor replacement, Caroline Calouche & Co. has been able to provide a safer, more professional space for both aspiring and seasoned artists.
“This grant allowed us to pay off the balance and save money on interest, which gave us some breathing room to focus on our mission.”
Rethinking Philanthropy: Supporting What’s Often Overlooked
One of the most insightful reflections from Caroline was about the broader implications of The UnFundable Project. “It was hard at first to wrap my mind around what an ‘unfundable’ project meant,” she admitted. “Most grants focus on future-facing programs or specific initiatives, but this was different. Paying off past expenses or addressing operational needs isn’t usually something funders are interested in.”
Caroline highlighted how critical operating support and debt relief can be for arts organizations — especially in a funding landscape that has shifted dramatically. “Right now, there’s not much local funding for the arts. Operating support like this is rare but incredibly impactful. But eliminating this debt opens up new possibilities and allows us to move forward with more freedom.”
Looking Ahead: Celebrating 20 Years of Impact
As Caroline Calouche & Co. looks to the future, the organization is gearing up for an exciting milestone in 2026 — celebrating its 20th anniversary. In preparation, the nonprofit’s upcoming season promises to bring more innovative programming, community engagement, and opportunities for audiences to connect with the magic of dance and circus arts.
“We’ve weathered an economic recession, a pandemic, and changes in arts funding,” Caroline reflected. “To still be here and thriving is something we’re really proud of.”
Continuing the Journey
As Next Stage continues to champion trust-based philanthropy and partner with organizations that push boundaries, we’re proud to celebrate Caroline Calouche & Co.’s success — an inspiring reminder of how sometimes, the most impactful projects are the ones that don’t fit neatly into a grant application box.
Follow Caroline Calouche & Co. on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected and learn how you can support their mission as the organization enters its 20th anniversary season.
Next Stage partners with nonprofits, private sector companies, government agencies, health organizations, faith institutions, and philanthropy and community leaders to develop and implement effective strategies that center community voice, foster collaboration, and fuel social change.
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