Information for Grant Seekers
Applying for a Grant
The first step in applying to the foundation is a short letter of inquiry. We review letters on a continual basis. They may be submitted at any time during the year. We try to acknowledge the receipt of all letters of inquiry. If you do not receive notification of receipt within one month, feel free to contact the foundation.
All letters are reviewed to determine if they fall within the foundation’s priority areas. Those that do not are immediately declined. Letters that are within the foundations priorities are then reviewed to determine the following:
- The priority of the proposed activity within the foundation's goals
- The impact of the potential results of the activities
- The availability of foundation funds
Limitations on Grantmaking
- Grants will only be awarded to non-profit, tax-exempt organizations or groups that work through a tax-exempt organization.
- Funds will not be provided for legislative lobbying or to influence public elections.
Submitting a Letter of Inquiry
Letters of inquiry should be no more than two pages and should include the following:
- A brief statement of the issues to be addressed, goals of your organization, and your organization's involvement with these issues.
- A brief summary of the activities for which you are requesting support.
- The approximate starting date and duration of the proposed activities.
- The total amount of funding requested.
Proposals
When a letter of inquiry addresses the foundation’s program priorities, we will request a full proposal. Proposals should be submitted to the foundation only upon request. Since the foundation receives more proposals than it can fund, you should not interpret such a request as an indication of likely support. Often the staff will request additional information from applicants. Proposal deadlines are May 1 and November 1.
Grant proposals should include:
- History and mission of the organization
- Problem statement or needs assessment
- Program goals and objectives
- Methodology
- Evaluation
- Sustainability including a list of current funding sources
- Budget
Appendices:
- 501 (c) (3) Letter
- Articles or other supporting documentation (optional)
- Up to three letters of support (optional)
Proposals should not exceed five pages in length including a cover sheet and budget.
Download a Cover Sheet: Cover Sheet (Word Format) Cover Sheet (PDF Format)
Final decisions on proposals are made by the foundation's board of directors, which meets twice a year. You will be informed of the board's decision immediately following the board meeting at which your proposal is considered. If a grant is awarded, you will be asked to sign a Grant Agreement that includes reporting and other requirements.