FAQs
How many letters of intent and grant proposals do you review each year?
The number of applications we receive varies depending on community need. During a recent grant cycle, we received 13 letters of intent, which resulted in 10 full grant proposals. Of those, six were selected for funding. To better understand our funding patterns, we encourage you to review the list of grants awarded in recent years.
What is a nonprofit? What is a 501(c)(3)?
A 501(c)(3) is a federally recognized charitable organization under the IRS code, and contributions made to it may be tax-deductible.
A nonprofit corporation is an organization that is registered at the state level and does not automatically qualify for federal tax-exempt status. While a nonprofit can generate revenue, those funds must be reinvested in the mission—it cannot distribute profits to individuals. Employees may be compensated for their work (i.e. paid salary), but no individual may profit from the organization’s earnings.
We would like to meet with someone at the Foundation to discuss a proposal. How do we arrange a meeting?
We’d be happy to connect. Please email us at info@givetofcf.com to schedule a time to discuss your idea or proposal.
Our organization’s program doesn’t seem to fall within the descriptions in the Foundation’s grant guidelines. Does that mean we should not apply?
It likely means the Foundation is not the best fit for your project. If your program is unrelated to any of the Foundation’s listed funding priorities, we encourage you to seek alternative sources of support. If you believe there may be some alignment—for example, your work touches on education or health but you’re unsure of fit—please reach out to our Program Officer for clarification before applying.
The Foundation’s deadline is approaching but we will not have all the required attachments ready to submit. Can we submit our proposal and supplement it later?
Unfortunately, no. Due to limited staffing and a short review window, all materials must be complete and submitted by the deadline. We strongly encourage you to work closely with our Program Officer in advance to ensure everything is ready to go on time.
Will the Foundation accept proposals that are submitted after the deadline?
No. We cannot accept late submissions. All proposals must be received by noon on the day of the deadline to be considered.
If the Foundation conducts a site visit, does that mean we will get funded?
Not necessarily. While a site visit is typically a positive step in the review process, it does not guarantee funding. Site visits help us better understand your project, but we also sometimes decline proposals after a visit.
What happens if we receive a grant but cannot use the grant funds as originally proposed?
Please contact our Program Officer immediately. Do not reallocate or repurpose grant funds without prior written approval from the Foundation. Unauthorized use of grant funds is a violation of the grant agreement and could affect your eligibility for future funding.
Will my agency have any continuing obligation to the Foundation?
Yes. If awarded a grant, your organization will enter into a grant contract with the Foundation. One of the key requirements is submitting a final report detailing how funds were spent, due within 30 days of the project’s completion, and we typically like to see projects completed within a year of receiving the grant. Our Program Officer will review the contract terms with you after the grant is awarded.
If my agency has previously applied for a grant from the Foundation, when can we apply again?
If your agency received funding, you may apply for funding for the same project two years after the grant was awarded. You may apply for a different project at any time after your final report has been submitted, though please note that the number of applications submitted may be considered by the Grant Committee.
If your previous proposal was not funded, you’re welcome to reapply at any time. However, we recommend speaking with our staff beforehand. We may be able to provide feedback on your previous application or guide you on whether a resubmission is advisable.
