Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first step in sending a proposal to the Foundation?
If you have not been funded by the Foundation before or it has been more then two years since your last grant, the first step is a letter of inquiry. If you have been funded in the past, a report on the previous grant is required before we would consider another request.
What should be included in a letter of inquiry?
A letter of inquiry should describe your organization, what you do, and the purpose and amount of your request. It should be no longer than two pages long. It may be sent by email, fax or regular mail. The board will review it within two weeks and let you know if we are interested in a full proposal.
May an applicant discuss its letter of inquiry or proposal with the Foundation?
We suggest that you call (609-924-5939) to discuss your request before you send it. This can lead you in the right direction and save you time and effort.
Is there anything you will not fund?
Organizations that do not have
- e 501(C)3 status
- Loans
- Direct grants to individuals or personal businesses
- Litigation
- Travel expenses for bands and sports teams
- Charter schools
- Political candidates or lobbying activity
- Advertising for fundraising events
This list is not all-inclusive. There are many reasons why proposals are declined.
Are there geographic restrictions?
We fund in New Jersey with particular interest in Middlesex and Union counties. Secondarily, we fund in Mercer and Somerset counties. We fund the local branches of national organizations and also some international relief organizations.
If a letter of inquiry is selected for a full proposal, then what?
An organization that is selected for a full proposal will be notified in 2-3 weeks. A full proposal must include all of the information found in the "Application Procedures" section of this website.
Are there application deadlines?
No. The Foundation reviews proposals every 30 days and your proposal will be considered on the next agenda after it is received.
Do you fund general operating expenses?
Yes. The Foundation funds general operating expenses.
How much money should we request?
Your request should be based on your project, but our average grants range from $1,000-$10,000. It is important that your proposal explain, as specifically as possible, how the money will be used.
What kind of budget information do you require?
For requests for general operating support we require the budget for the entire organization. For specific projects we need the budget for that project, as well as the budget for the entire organization.
How should the proposal be delivered?
Full proposals should be delivered by regular mail. There is no need to spend money to expedite delivery. Please send the proposal with no signature required.
How will we know if you have received our proposal?
If you provide an email address on the first page of your proposal, we will notify you that we have received your proposal.
When will we know if our proposal is being funded?
You will hear from us within two weeks after sending a letter of inquiry and within 60 days of receipt of a full proposal.
Is a site visit customary?
A site visit may be required for new applicants. Applicants should be proactive in offering site visits. We rely on grantees to notify us of their events so that trustees may attend, if appropriate.
If we are declined, may we submit another proposal?
Yes, another proposal may be sent for a different project. Or, wait a year to reapply for the same type of project. We suggest you call us (609-924-5939) before sending another proposal.
If we are funded for one year, can we count on receiving funding in the future years?
Some grants are for one year and grantees need to reapply each year. One year of funding does not guarantee future funding. Other grants are multi-year (up to three years). Those require submission of an annual report before the next yearís funds are released.
Is there a specific format for written grant reports?
There is no specific format, but a report is required no later than a year from the date of the grant.
Is there a limit to the number of grants one organization can receive in one year?
Organizations can only receive one grant in a given calendar year. You must decide what your priority is and make your request accordingly.