What We Support |
It is the Foundation's general policy to give preference to proposals seeking funds for new or enhanced programs, capacity-building support, one-time, short-term grants to sustain a program until funding is stabilized, matching grants to encourage the participation of other donors, and "last dollars" towards a capital campaign.
Additionally, we favor proposals that focus on making a positive and transformative impact on the community, including long-term investments in social capital and infrastructure; enhancing the viability of the applicant, and the sustainability of the program; have clearly stated and achievable objectives and time-frames; and emphasize collaboration within the community and the inclusion of diverse voices/perspectives.
The Foundation does consider proposals in the areas of Environment and Historic Preservation, however, as these are not core focus areas, funding is often limited. Priority will be given to proposals in other focus areas.
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Types Of Grants
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Organizational Capacity Building
Projects that strengthen a nonprofit’s ability to fulfill its mission and sustain itself over time, thereby enhancing the nonprofit’s ability to have a positive impact on lives and communities.
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Special Projects
Time-limited projects that usually will not need on-going funding
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New Programs
New and innovative programs, or the expansion of proven existing programs that address the community’s most pressing needs
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Seed Grants
Grants for nonprofit organizations in their startup phase, or established nonprofits starting up a new program, offering or approach. Seed grants may cover salaries and other operating expenses of a new project.
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Capital Campaigns
Nonprofit fundraising campaign with the goal of raising a large amount of money for a specific purpose within a predetermined time frame. The goal of a capital campaign is to raise funds for a specific infrastructure project that is essential to furthering the organization’s mission.
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Matching/Challenge Grants
A grant that is paid only if the organization is able to raise additional funds from other sources. Challenge or matching grants are often used to stimulate giving from other donors.
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Focus Areas
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Arts and Culture
Music, music education, museums, historical societies, theaters
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Civic Benefit
Community improvement development, philanthropy/volunteerism, capacity building, etc.
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Economic/Workforce Development
Economic well-being and quality of life of individuals and the local community are improved according to targeted goals and objectives. Examples: job creation/job retention, job training and educational programs to grow skills and develop tools needed for business success.
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Education
Early childhood development and education for children, adult learning programs, etc.
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Environment
Beautification, environmental protection, restoration and saving of natural habitat
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Health and Human Services
Counseling programs, alcohol & drug related programs, crisis/domestic violence, medical services, senior services, respite care, food related, homelessness and housing
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Historic Preservation
Preservation and protection of artifacts of historical significance
Applicant Qualifications:
- At this time, we will consider organizations located in -- or can demonstrate a direct benefit to -- Oswego County through specific projects or programs.
- Grants are only made to organizations classified as tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or those considered exempt, such as governmental subdivisions. Community Enrichment Grants will require a designated tax-exempt fiscal sponsor.
- Grant applications for large requests for funding over $200,000 will not be considered until at least 50% of the total project budget has been raised by the applicant prior to applying.
- For capital campaigns or projects, the Foundation will award no more than 10% of the total project budget.
- No grants or loans will be made to individuals.