Private Foundation Grants Orientation

Foundation grants are Free Cash Grants generally issued by grant-making institutions to the general public for specific needs.

Why would an institution issue grants to individuals or groups? To better the community, a specific cause or to improve life for people in general. Many foundations have been set up by individuals (both living and deceased) to promote the causes of grantor. Some have been set up as charitable memorials to great people. Others have been set up by companies and other institutions to promote different areas of interest. Whatever the foundation makeup, grant-making foundations are required to grant specific percentages of their assets each year to maintain non-profit status.

Unlike banks, Foundations don't care if you have declared bankrutcy, have bad credit history and don't have a job. As long as you can demonstrate need and meet the requirements of the program, you can apply to the grant program. Apply to as many programs as possible and don't get discouraged if you are turned down. Persistence and patience will pay dividends.

We have categorized the premier and most popular grant making agencies by name and by category in the quicklinks section.