How do I apply for a grant?

"The community foundation is an organization to give money through, not an organization to give money to."

George Bennett
Former President, NCCF

Grant Application Procedure

Applicants may telephone or submit a letter of intent briefly describing the project before submitting a proposal in order to find out if their ideas are potentially fundable by the Foundation. Feel free to contact us by calling 260-894-3335 Monday through Friday or by email at nccf@ligtel.com.

In applying for grants, the following points MUST be addressed (with explanation if information is not available):

1. The specific purpose and the need for the funds requested.
2. The need for the project in the community.
3. The amount requested.
4. A detailed description of how the money would be spent. Also, for existing projects, a copy of the latest annual operating budget reflecting expenditures, receipts, and a balance sheet.
5. A statement advising how the grant, if made, will be evaluated with regard to improving life in Noble County.
6. Recent grants received and applications pending.
7. Listing of the current board and/or project organizers and their phone numbers.
8. A copy of the organization’s Internal Revenue Service federal tax-exempt letter stating 501(c)3 status (if you have one.)
9. For schools applying a letter of support from your superintendent/principal.

After your request has been received, you may be contacted by a representative of the Foundation requesting a site visit or additional information. Decisions are made approximately 60 days after the deadline and you will be contacted about the Boards’ decision.

The general policy of the Foundation and Community Initiatives is to make grants for innovative, creative projects and programs responsive to changing community needs in the areas of health and human services, education, arts, and culture and civic affairs. The funding from the Foundation and Community Initiatives is not limited to these areas and grant seekers are encouraged to respond to emerging community needs.

Seventy-five percent of Community Initiatives funding is to improve the quality of life for youth in Noble County.Foundation staff members are available for consultation, and will also periodically conduct how-to-write a grant workshops. Please contact the Foundation for more information about funding interests.