The Fund encourages all prospective applicants to read through these Frequently Asked Questions prior to completing an application.
Eligibility
Do you accept unsolicited proposals?
Any organization that meets the Fund’s eligibility criteria is welcome to apply.
Can I schedule a meeting with a member of the Fund’s staff to discuss a prospective grant application?
Unfortunately, due to the volume of requests, the Fund cannot meet with applicants prior to submitting an application. The Fund’s staff typically conducts site visits and meetings after full proposal invitations have been extended.
My organization has a pending 501(c)(3) status; can I apply to the Fund?
Only organizations that are verified with a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) designation, as determined by the Internal Revenue Service, are eligible to receive grants.
My organization has not yet completed an annual audit; can I still apply to the Fund?
Organizations may still apply to the Fund even if they have not completed an annual audit. In lieu of the audit application requirement, please upload a copy of the organization’s most recent IRS 990 filing (signed and dated) with the Letter of Inquiry.
Is the Fund’s support limited to organizations in certain geographic locations?
Yes. Please refer to the Eligibility page for a complete listing of jurisdictions in which the Fund awards grants.
Application Review
When will I be notified if my organization has been invited to submit a full proposal?
Organizations will either be invited to submit a full proposal or declined within 45 days of each Letter of Inquiry deadline.
If my organization has been invited to submit a full proposal, will the Fund conduct a site visit?
The Fund will coordinate with your application’s request contact to schedule a meeting, conference call, or site visit as needed.
How long does it take to receive a final funding decision?
Each grantmaking cycle lasts between four and six months from the Letter of Inquiry deadline to receipt of the final decision.
When are grants approved?
The Board of Trustees typically convenes to determine grant awards three times per year in the spring, summer and late fall/early winter.