Nonprofit Operating Grants
A nonprofit operating or general grant is one that does not restrict use of funds. Grantees receiving an operating or general use grant may opt to utilize funds for rent, utilities, salaries or any other general operating expenses. While the bulk of foundations restrict grant funds to specific programs, services and populations, several large foundations in the United States also offer some operating grants.
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The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation
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Located in the state of Michigan, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation's giving reaches national and international grantees, as well as local nonprofits. The foundation's vision is one of partnership with the human race as a whole, aiming for the betterment of all mankind. The foundation's giving is far-reaching and all encompassing, allowing a wide variety of funded programs and services. The foundation's interests are in sustainable communities, employment development, education, health care, the arts and children's services. To apply, submit a letter of intent (LOI) to the foundation. Potential grantees will be contacted to submit a full proposal if necessary.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation
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The Annie E. Casey Foundation has a long-standing reputation of acting as a champion for children in need. The foundation's annual publication, Kids Count, is a valuable resource for lay-persons, social workers, health care professionals, and legislators. The foundation's mission is one of building better futures for children via improved public policy, human services and community support. The foundation offers limited operations grants annually to programs that assist disadvantaged children and their families. While the foundation does not often fund unsolicited proposals, a letter of intent can be submitted for review to the foundation via snail mail.
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The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
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Bill and Melinda Gates established their foundation in 1994 with the belief that each life has equal value. Since its inception, the foundation has given millions globally to improve the lives of human beings living in poverty. While the foundation does not grant funds to individuals, it does provide operation dollars to 501c3 designated nonprofit organizations. The foundation seeks programs and projects that effect significant, positive change, produce measurable results, uses preventive approaches and have the potential for longevity. The foundation welcomes letters of intent that describe programs and projects in detail. If interested, the foundation will request a comprehensive proposal, detailing goals, objectives, budgeting and other pertinent information and documentation.
The Ford Foundation
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The Ford Foundation funds approximately 2,000 grants each year out of about 44,000 submissions. The foundation gives globally with a mission to "reduce poverty and injustice, promoting democratic values and advancing human knowledge, creativity and achievement." To save potential grantees time and money, the foundation offers a grant inquiry option on their website. Prior to making a grant inquiry, an applicant should have several pieces of information at hand including proof of 501c3 status, federal tax identification number, detailed budget information, as well as an overview of the proposed program or project. The foundation will request a full proposal as needed.
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References
- Photo Credit Poverty. image by wrangler from Fotolia.com
