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HOME > APPLY > HOW TO APPLY

Application Process

For most strategic grant opportunities, the Trust will issue open, public Requests for Proposals (RFPs). Each RFP will detail the outcomes sought by the Trust, and the criteria used to award grants. RFPs will be published on the website in each specific funding priority and will contain complete details and deadlines.

The Trust is now using a transitional online system for submitting applications. The format will be new to all applicants, including those who have already received funding from the Trust. Review these instructions before you start.

Start up
On the logon page, you will be prompted to provide your email address, which will serve as your username. (If you used our previous online system, you cannot log in using your previous username and password.) Next, choose "Create New Account" to begin registration. All fields marked with an asterisk (*) on the registration form are required.
In Section 1, provide contact information for the individual completing the application. In Section 2, provide contact information for the head of the organization. If that is the same person, you will need to complete both sections with the same information.
Click "Proceed to Next Step." You will now create a password. Click "Save." You will be taken to your dashboard, where you can edit your contact information or begin the application process.
Preparing an application
From the left menu, click "Apply" to view all RFPs accepting applications. Select the appropriate application for your project.
The "Question List PDF" at the top of the page will show you all the questions in that application. You can use this document to prepare the information and documents you will need.
Excel worksheets are attached throughout the application form. These will help  ensure that you input accurate data in the sections for project revenue, project expenses, client demographics, organizational financials and organizational demographics.
Do not use commas in fields requesting a dollar amount or quantity.
Save frequently using the "Save Draft" button at the bottom of the application. If you have saved a draft, you can log out and return to your application later. Do not log out without saving your application.
Upload all required documents. Supporting documents in Microsoft Word, Excel or PDF format can be uploaded. We will not accept supporting documents by mail or email.
Submitting an application
When your application is complete, please click "Submit Form". You will not be able to submit your application until you have completed all required fields and documents.
You will not be able to review your application once it is submitted—so make sure that this is your final version.
You will see a confirmation page with the message "The application has been submitted." You will not receive an email confirmation. You can go to your Dashboard to view the status of your application.
More tips and tools
  • Use the "Question List PDF" at the top of the application page as your guide when preparing to apply.
  • Character counts include spaces.
  • Do not use commas in any field requesting a dollar amount or quantity
  • Most narrative fields are expandable: look for the grey hash mark in the lower right corner of the text field.
  • Wherever numerical data is needed, a spreadsheet with a built-in formula will make sure your numbers add up correctly.
  • Save often. Your application will auto-save every 20 minutes. Saving preserves your data and allows you to log out and return.
  • Use the Application Packet document at the top of the application to review your completed form.
  • If your supporting documents are not Word, Excel or PDF files, choose "Fax to File" from the left menu to convert them to PDFs.
  • For more step-by-step help, watch this video tutorial.

 

Review And Evaluation Of Proposals

The Trust’s program staff reviews proposals and presents recommendations to the Executive Committee (board of directors). They determine whether an applicant’s proposal is consistent with the Trust’s program strategies and goals; whether the organization demonstrates the capacity to meet its objectives; if it can design strategies to achieve results; and if the project has the potential for measurable impact. Program officers may also conduct site visits to assist their evaluation and to better understand the proposed project.

Due to the volume of applications, the Trust is unable to fund all requests submitted for consideration, including those that meet program priorities.

 

Grant Decisions

The Executive Committee makes decisions on grant recommendations of over $25,000 in each of the foundation’s three grant cycles: January, May, and September. Organizations will be notified of grant decisions soon after each board meeting. Requests for funding of $25,000 and under are submitted for internal review and approved on a rolling basis during each cycle. Organizations must return their signed grant agreements by the 10th of the month in order to receive payment on the 20th of the following month.

 

Reporting On Your Outcomes

Grant recipients provide narrative and financial reports on their project activity. The grant award letter specifies the deadline for submitting reports. Read more about final reports.