FAQs

General operating support is funding an organization uses for its core operations and to meet its mission. General operating support is used for any cost that keeps the organization running, unless otherwise restricted at the time of the grant. This gives more flexibility to the grantee.  

Program/project support is funding for specific, mission-related programs, projects and initiatives. Programs/projects must have a defined goal, and typically have a set beginning and end. They may fall within the organization’s core operations. Grants for this purpose only cover costs related to the program or project specified in the application.  

If a program is ongoing, enter your organization’s fiscal year dates as the beginning and end dates. Please include extra clarity or details about the schedule in your narrative responses.

No. The competitive grants program of the endowment makes grants to nonprofit organizations. If a nonprofit is partnering with a school or church that nonprofit can apply for funding for the partnership.  

This restriction also applies to the fundraising and/or foundation arms of public and private schools, colleges and universities. It also applies to foundations and/or nonprofit organizations housed in and/or administered by the schools, colleges or universities if the school receives direct benefit from the administration of that program.

No. Schools and churches are not eligible for funding even if they have 501c(3) nonprofit status.

No. The program does not accept applications from local, state or federal government agencies, including but not limited to local county health departments, human services departments, public schools, colleges, and universities. This also includes fundraising and/or foundation arms of government agencies. 

Grants may be awarded to health care systems both partially or solely owned or operated by publicly funded colleges and universities.

Capital expenses that are not part of active or planned capital campaigns are allowed. Grants cannot be made for expenses that fall within an active or planned capital campaign.

Re-granting means a grantee plans to use the funding for its own grant program. This is not an allowable expense for this program.  

Organizations using an application process to distribute funds to people in need may be granted a rare exception if the distribution is core to its mission and values.

No. Grants are not awarded for the repayment of loans or for expenses already incurred by the organization.

No. Grants are not awarded for reimbursement of costs already incurred. Grants are only available for costs occurring after the submission deadline. 

The endowment only supports programs and services that benefit education, health and human services. If arts or the environment are a component of the program or service, they may be considered but the primary goals must fall within one of the three defined focus areas.

No, we are not able to accept applications submitted after the NOON deadline on July 30, 2024, for any reason. We recommend submitting your application well before the deadline. We are unable to accommodate late submissions due to technological issues.