Bolger Foundation Grant

The Bolger Foundation is a private charitable organization based in Ridgewood, New Jersey, dedicated to supporting initiatives that foster conservation and preservation, serve underprivileged and underserved populations, enhance health and mental health services, strengthen communities, and expand educational opportunities. The Foundation has a particular preference for capital projects and prioritizes one-time investments in tangible improvements. Examples include the construction or purchase of new facilities, building renovations, upgrades, or acquisitions of capital equipment and furnishings. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations with a valid tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and must be classified as public charities under Sections 509(a)(1) or 509(a)(2). Additionally, the proposed project must operate with a total budget of under $5 million. The Foundation strictly excludes applications from individuals, fiscal agents, or projects based outside the United States. Applications seeking endowment funding, general operating support, or those related to benefit fundraisers or annual appeals are not considered. Funding amounts for approved grants typically range between $10,000 and $250,000. Although the Foundation does not specify the total program funding available or the number of awards expected, each application is evaluated based on its alignment with the Foundation’s mission and its clear, justifiable budget. There is no matching funds requirement mentioned, nor does the Foundation indicate any preference for geographic areas beyond its limitation to U.S.-based projects. Applications must be submitted through the Foundation’s online grant portal and include several required documents: a short organizational mission narrative, a description of the project and whether funding will be partial or complete, a detailed line-item project budget, the most recent audited financial report or IRS Form 990, IRS determination letters for 501(c)(3) and 509(a) status, and the organization's latest annual report if available. The grant application process is divided into two annual cycles. Spring applications are accepted from November 1 to February 1, and Fall applications from June 1 to September 1. The submission portal closes promptly at 5 PM Eastern Time on the final day of each application period. If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the cutoff shifts to the next business day. Applications are reviewed at the end of each application window, and funding decisions are made within six weeks. Grantees are notified either via email or postal mail. For additional questions or clarifications, prospective applicants are encouraged to consult the Foundation’s FAQ or contact them directly via email. The organization’s office is located at 79 Chestnut Street, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, and can be reached by phone at (201) 670-9270.

Review all guidelines before applying. Prepare concise narratives and ensure all financial and legal documents are current.