The Mike & Gillian Goodrich Foundation has been a significant source of support for nonprofit organizations across Alabama, providing over $37 million in grants since 2009. The foundation focuses on supporting projects in the Birmingham metro area, the Black Belt counties of Dallas, Greene, Hale, Perry, and Sumter, as well as initiatives that influence policy changes across the state. Their grantmaking spans a wide range of sectors, including education, environmental stewardship, neighborhood revitalization, arts and culture, and strengthening strategic community assets.
The foundation offers different types of grants, including program grants, operating grants, and capital campaign grants. Program grants can provide up to $30,000 for specific programs, while operating grants, which are available in any amount, can be awarded for up to three years with annual reviews. These grants are designed to reduce the burden of constant applications and allow grantees to focus on their missions. Capital campaign grants, which can be for any amount, are also considered throughout the year to support larger, long-term projects.
Grant applications must be submitted by the deadlines of February 1, May 1, August 1, and November 1 for review at the quarterly board meetings. However, applications related to the Black Belt Region must be submitted by January 16 or July 16. The foundation does not provide funding to individuals, private schools, individual school programs or classrooms, scholarships, mission trips, or health-related research. Grants are also not awarded to support fundraising events unless they are entirely tax-deductible. However, faith-based organizations may receive grants if their programs align strongly with the foundation's focus areas.
The foundation's wide-ranging impact on education, green spaces, community revitalization, and the arts makes it a crucial player in fostering Alabama’s development, particularly in underserved regions like the Black Belt.
