Dupaco’s Gift of Innovation strengthens nonprofits

Fixing the leaks is important—but building a better boat? That’s where the magic happens.

Facing the aftermath of the pandemic, Derecho, economic climate and funding shifts, Waypoint Services noticed a pattern: too many quick fixes trying to stay afloat and not enough time spent strengthening its foundation. Their senior leadership team and board recognized the need to press pause and focus on improving the organization’s structure for long-term growth and impact. This coming at a perfect time with their current CEO retiring after 12 years.

Enter Dupaco’s Gift of Innovation.

Nonprofits like Waypoint face real challenges—just like any business. And let’s be honest, they often do it with fewer resources and bigger hearts. That’s why innovation isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. Dupaco’s Gift of Innovation Grant program, in partnership with The Innovation Lab, is designed to help nonprofits unlock their full potential.

This grant helps organizations tackle the tough stuff:

• Strategic planning
• Process improvements
• Financial sustainability
• And yes, even bold new ideas

From one-day sessions to full-year capacity-building journeys, the program meets nonprofits where they are—and helps them get where they want to go.

“We tailor the session to the needs of the nonprofit,” said Eric Dregne, director of The Innovation Lab. “At a minimum, grant recipients walk away with two to three highly actionable strategies to boost their operations and capacity.”

Waypoint Services is proof.

Serving 14 counties in Iowa, with its main location in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Waypoint tackles some of the community’s most pressing challenges—housing instability, poverty, violence and the need for quality, affordable childcare. As a vital resource for individuals and families navigating tough times, Waypoint knows that strengthening its internal structure is key to strengthening its impact.

As a Gift of Innovation grant recipient of two full-day innovation sessions, Waypoint’s senior leaders and board worked with Eric to reimagine their organizational design. They asked a powerful question: “What capabilities and roles do we need to succeed in the future we’re building?”

That question sparked a deep dive into the structure, strengths and strategy needed to move forward. Together, they made thoughtful decisions rooted in clarity and purpose.

“The Innovation Lab helped Waypoint envision a sustainable and impactful future by laying a strong foundation for long-term growth and success,” said Autumn Paine, Waypoint’s current Chief Development and Marketing Officer and incoming CEO. “They helped us identify key position responsibilities and align them with individual strengths and organizational needs. The information gained through the session will help guide us in making the needed steps to achieve our goals. We are excited for day two, which will involve all leadership staff, helping us identify strategic goals while building alignment around organizational roles and their purpose.”

Looking for your own breakthrough moment?

If you’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ready to level up, check out Dupaco’s Gift of Innovation Grant program. It’s not just about solving problems—it’s about building something better.