Grant FAQ's
Grant Application Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Community Foundation award grants for operating support?
In general, we do not award funding for operations, however, these requests can be reviewed on a case by case basis. Please, contact the Grants Manager for more information.
Our organization is in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, but we have not yet received it. Can we apply for a grant?
Yes, but only if your project is currently sponsored by a qualified 501(c)(3) organization. This organization should have a mission consistent with yours, as well as the administrative capacity to accept the legal responsibility for the grant and administer it accordingly.
Can a state-supported educational institution or a government entity apply for a grant even if it is not a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization?
Yes, but it must provide a letter indicating its tax status and its federal tax ID number.
Will you review a draft of our proposal and give us suggestions for improvement?
No, but there are opportunities to learn about our process and ask questions. One-on-one consultations can be scheduled with the Grants Manager.
How often can we apply for a grant?
Once per year.
Does the Community Foundation support capital campaigns?
The Community Foundation awards grants for specific capital projects such as buildings that will be utilized by many in the community.
Does the Community Foundation support capacity-building projects to improve a nonprofit organization’s fundraising, marketing, training, ect.?
Yes. For more information, please contact the Grants Manager.
Our organization received an unsolicited grant from an advised fund at the Community Foundation. Can we apply directly to that fund for another grant?
No. However, you can apply for a Community Impact Grant, through our competitive process.
Our program is part of a much larger parent organization, such as a university or county government. Should we send the Community Foundation its full financial report and budget?
No. Information about the annual budget for your department is sufficient.
Our organization received a grant through the competitive process last year, but our project still needs support. Can we apply for another grant for the same project?
Not unless several criteria have been met or there are special circumstances. This would be evaluated on an individual basis. Please contact the Grants Manager for more information.
If a proposal for a competitive grant is declined, can we resubmit the same project later?
It is not advisable to submit the same project unless new circumstances — such as additional funding partners, or strengthened leadership — have made the project more competitive. It's always best to learn why the proposal was rejected before investing time in resubmitting it.
Who selects grant recipients?
The Board of Directors makes all final decisions but they utilize a volunteer grants committee to review applications, host site visits, and make recommendations.
Before I submit an application, should I talk with a Community Foundation staff person to make sure my funding request is appropriate and matches with funding opportunities?
Yes, before you begin working on a grant proposal it is strongly recommended (although not required) you talk with programming staff about your funding request. For more information, contact the Program Officer before submitting your proposal.
Does the LIFE Youth Philanthropy program have grant opportunities?
Yes, LIFE supports educational programs that impact youth. Please, visit our LIFE page for more information.
What are the possible outcomes after submitting a grant application?
A proposal can be approved, approved with condition, approved in part, or denied.
Example Documents
