Ford Family Foundation Large funding Grant

The Ford Family Foundation offers Larger Funding Requests for organizations seeking more than $25,000 in support for programs, operations, or capital projects that align with its defined funding priorities. These grants are intended for initiatives that significantly impact the lives of rural children and their families in Oregon and Siskiyou County, California. Applicants must engage directly with Foundation staff prior to submission to ensure alignment with strategic goals. Capital grants under this program can reach up to $250,000 and are available for projects that fall within the Foundation’s impact areas: Family, Education, and Community. For capital funding, the Foundation generally funds up to one-third of the project’s total cost. Applicants must demonstrate substantial community investment, with at least 50 percent of the total budget secured before applying. The grant review process for capital projects typically takes three to six months. Projects aligned with the Community impact area are limited to specific facility types, such as community centers, libraries, children’s museums, fire halls, and rural health centers, particularly where youth services are involved. In contrast, Family impact area grants support programs that foster nurturing parent-child relationships, prevent abuse, and improve financial stability, while Education impact area grants promote early childhood development, literacy, college and career readiness, and support for underserved rural students. All proposals must demonstrate sustainability and community engagement. The Foundation expects applicants to show how their work will continue beyond the grant term and how local resources support the initiative. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) nonprofits, tribal nations, and governmental agencies serving rural Oregon or Siskiyou County. The Foundation does not fund adult-only treatment, basic infrastructure, routine school curriculum development, or capital connected to for-profit health systems. Proposals for funding must align with the Foundation’s mission and exhibit the potential to improve outcomes for children and families in rural communities. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis following staff consultation.

Ensure alignment with designated impact areas; demonstrate high community investment and a strong sustainability plan; raise 50% of funds before applying.