|
 The Greater Tacoma Community Foundation invests in the community through grants to vital nonprofit agencies that are turning donations into action. Through the Community Grant Program, The Foundation offers grants to nonprofits in all fields that help to make a difference in the lives of Pierce County residents. The Foundation makes capital, equipment, project and operating support grants.
While grants are made across all fields, principal funding areas include:
| Arts & Culture: programs and projects that bring beauty and thoughtful connection to Pierce County by providing broad access to artistic and cultural opportunities. We fund arts education, programs that support cultural diversity and performance. |
| Civic: programs and projects that preserve and beautify community assets, fostering strong and connected neighborhoods. We fund neighborhood development, training of community leaders, nonprofit capacity building and capital projects. |
| Education: programs and projects that provide youth and adults quality learning opportunities, encouraging them to grow and experience new perspectives. We fund literacy and work-force programs, programs that promote staying in school, and after-school programs. |
| Environment: programs and projects that protect and sustain our natural environment. We fund environmental education, stewardship, restoration, land purchase, and animal welfare. |
| Health: programs and projects that promote wellness and healthy choices. We fund education, prevention and direct services. |
| Human Services: programs and projects that meet the basic needs of Pierce County residents. We fund programs that promote self-sufficiency and family sustainability. |
Eligibility
To be eligible for community grant funding, organizations must meet the following criteria:
- Attest to non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, age, national origin, religion, physical or mental handicap, veteran status or sexual orientation.
- Provide a service primarily for residents of Pierce County.
- Qualify as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code.
- Apply no more than once a year for any one governing or umbrella organization.
Applications are reviewed by Foundation staff and then carefully considered by a Distribution Committee appointed by the Board of Directors. Sitting on this committee are both members of the Board and other members of The Foundation. The Distribution Committee submits its recommendations to the Board of Directors for final action.
Proposals Ineligible for Funding: Grants will not be made for or to:
- Fundraising events or fundraising feasibility projects
- Individuals
- Religious organizations for sacramental/theological purposes
- Production of books, videos, films or other publications
|
Annual Campaign appeals
Travel
Political or lobbying activities
Endowments
Debt reduction
Events or programs that occur prior to the Board of Directors decision/notification dates
|
|
GRANT DEADLINES: |
|
|
Spring |
Fall |
|
Letter of Intent (LOI) |
January 15 |
July 15 |
|
Grant proposal |
February 15 |
August 15 |
|
Notification |
June |
December |
Selection Criteria:
Applications will be evaluated by the Distribution Committee using a variety of criteria, including the following:
· Feasibility and value of the program or project to the health of Pierce County.
· Demonstrated capability of management (diversity of board members, leadership of staff).
· Innovative solutions for positive community change, including collaborations with other Pierce County agencies.
· Understanding of potential outcomes and demonstrated evaluation methods.
· Sustainable plan for long-range or on-going funding support.
|
