Ford Family Foundation Technical Assistance Grants

The Technical Assistance grants from The Ford Family Foundation are part of its Open Oregon Grants initiative, designed to strengthen the internal capacity of rural organizations in Oregon and Siskiyou County, California. These grants support community-rooted efforts by helping organizations build skills, engage expertise, and implement strategies to enhance their impact. Emphasizing accessibility and flexibility, the Foundation offers an open-door application process without fixed deadlines, reflecting its commitment to meeting rural communities where they are. Eligible organizations can request funding for activities such as attending conferences, engaging in strategic planning, developing leadership capacity, or contracting consultants for targeted initiatives. The Foundation encourages applications from groups with annual budgets under $1 million, although exceptions are considered. A cash match of 10% is required, which can come from the applicant organization or other contributors supporting the project. Typical award amounts are up to $5,000. To apply, organizations must submit two attachments: either a consultant's scope of work or a conference/training agenda, and a simple budget form. Proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis, and applicants can expect to hear back within six to ten weeks of submission. While organizations are encouraged to apply as needed, those who have received funding in the past 12 months should consult with Foundation staff before reapplying. The Foundation primarily funds 501(c)(3) nonprofits, governmental agencies, and tribal nations. Applicants must ensure their proposed projects benefit rural areas—defined as communities with populations under 35,000 and not adjacent to metropolitan zones—and demonstrate significant community buy-in through local support, donations, or partnerships. Restrictions include ineligibility for individuals, discriminatory organizations, and projects related to debt reduction, endowments, reserve funds, political activity, or religious proselytizing. The Foundation values meaningful engagement and sustainability, prioritizing organizations that align with its mission and demonstrate a strong connection to the community.

Demonstrating strong community buy-in and alignment with rural goals can strengthen the application.