Deadlines For Grant Applications Coming Soon
Mark your calendars, the deadline for 2018 grant applications is June 29, 2018. If you’ve been invited to apply for funding, make sure to get your applications to us by then. If you’re interested in applying for one of our grants, there are a couple things you should know.
How does the application process work?
The Gilchrist Foundation has a process in place for considering where its funds should be dispersed. First off, the foundation does not accept any unsolicited applications. Rather, we invite pre-selected charities to apply for grants based on how we think their mission aligns with ours. That is, our mission is to support and further philanthropic interests in the arts, wildlife and conservation, public broadcasting and disaster relief, with a preference for organizations in the Sioux City area. Past recipients include: the American Red Cross, the Art Center Association of Sioux City, Briar Cliff University, Camp High Hopes, Downtown Partners, Friends of Iowa Public Television Foundation, Latham Park and Saturday in the Park. You can see a complete list here.
How do I get invited to apply?
If you think your organization’s mission matches ours, you can submit a request for invitation form to be considered to apply for a grant. The form can either be downloaded and mailed or submitted from our website. Either way, we’re looking for information about your mission, how it relates to the Gilchrist Foundation and the geographic area your organization serves. You must also attach a copy of your IRS tax exempt status. The grant cycle begins each April and awards are announced in mid-July.
One note - organizations that request less than $5,000 can simply apply for our micro-grant opportunity, which does not require an invitation. The micro-grants offer a one-time grant of up to $5,000. These grants are given to bring theater, music, art, green spaces, parks, wildlife and conservation efforts to Siouxland. You can apply for a micro-grant at any time.
How do I apply for funding?
Once you receive an invitation to apply, you will be sent a URL link where you can download, complete and submit your grant application. There are three types of these grants available: Capital Campaign, Project Grant or Endowment.
What’s the difference between the grants?
The Project Grant is used to both enhance existing programs and to offer new programs. This grant’s funding is temporary and not a permanent budget line item to keep the program going. About 45 percent of the foundation’s awards go to Project Grants, and while some do go to social service agencies or colleges, they have a conservation or arts purpose.
The other two grants make up the remaining 55 percent. The Endowment grant is given to promote endowments, where the Gilchrist Foundation is a significant contributor but not the main supporter. The goal is to ultimately have board participation to help raise funds. Also, fundraising challenges that match foundation funds receive preference. Lastly, a Capital Campaign makes a significant contribution to renovation or expansion projects. Preference is given to the use of foundation funds to stimulate matching funds.
Have more questions? Learn more about the grant application process here or contact us here.