Mildred’s Dream Foundation Non-Profit Grant Program

Mildred’s Dream Foundation (MDF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to supporting community-based nonprofit organizations that provide essential services aligned with its mission. The foundation's philanthropic approach focuses on addressing systemic challenges through targeted support in three primary areas: education, domestic violence prevention and survivor support, and physical and mental health challenges. Funding from MDF is designed to empower organizations working directly with underserved and vulnerable populations, thereby contributing to meaningful and measurable community impact. For the 2025 grant cycle, MDF will award grants of up to $25,000 per recipient, with most awards averaging between $5,000 and $10,000. These grants are designated for specific programs or projects rather than general operational support. However, up to 20% of the grant may be allocated to general operating costs, excluding items such as rent, utilities, office supplies, taxes, and insurance. Salaries for staff involved in the program’s delivery or expansion may be included in the budget if justified. Funding is not available for capital projects, lobbying, scholarships, or endowments. Organizations applying must be registered as 501(c)(3) nonprofits and directly deliver services, programs, or advocacy in one of the foundation’s focus areas. MDF does not fund higher education institutions, hospitals, politically affiliated groups, or private schools that restrict access. Organizations with endowments or those with less than three months or more than nine months of operating reserves may be disqualified. Additionally, grantees who received funding in 2024 must submit a required progress report by June 30, 2025, to be eligible for the 2025 cycle. Applications must be submitted through MDF's online portal on the SurveyMonkey Apply platform no later than July 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST. Required application documents include the MDF Budget Workbook (specific to forecasting 2026 operational costs), a current balance sheet, and the organization’s IRS determination letter. Only MDF’s proprietary budget template will be accepted. Late or incomplete submissions will not be reviewed. Review and award notifications will be sent by October 1, 2025, and disbursements will be made before January 1, 2026. Post-award, all funded organizations are required to submit an impact report within six months of receiving funds, no later than July 1, 2026, via the SurveyMonkey Apply platform. Failure to comply with this reporting requirement may result in disqualification from future funding. MDF also stipulates that beginning in the 2026 cycle, organizations that have received funding for three consecutive years in either education or health will be required to take one year off from applying. For inquiries, applicants may contact Kimberly Pine at kpine@mildredsdreamfoundation.org or the general MDF email at info@mildredsdreamfoundation.org. More information, including details on previously funded organizations and access to the required application documents, is available at the MDF website.

Ensure you use the official MDF Budget Workbook template. Submit all documents before the deadline.