Zimmer Community Fund Program 2025

The Edw. F. Zimmer Community Fund, a donor-advised fund managed by Vanguard Charitable, offers quarterly grant opportunities for small to medium-sized nonprofits operating in New Mexico. The fund is committed to improving the life, environment, and culture of New Mexico communities through financial support tailored to organizations actively involved in these efforts. Their grants are structured to assist nonprofits classified as public charities with a significant operational presence or activity in New Mexico. Organizations based outside New Mexico may also apply if they meet additional registration and financial reporting criteria. Grants are issued on a quarterly schedule, with applications closing on the 15th of March, June, September, and December. The fund awards initial grants during the quarter of submission, with a potential follow-up grant disbursed six months later, contingent on re-approval. The current application window for 2nd Quarter 2025 grants closes on June 15th, 2025. The fund offers three types of grants: Unrestricted, Targeted, and Token. Unrestricted grants provide general operating support and are the standard offering for eligible nonprofits with a minimum of three years of long-form US-990s uploaded to their NM COROS page. These grants are typically capped at no more than 5% of direct program expenses minus income and are also subject to an upper limit of 5% of qualifying contributions. Large organizations can receive up to $25,000 semi-annually. Targeted grants are designated for specific, often one-time, needs and require prior consultation and additional documentation. Token grants of $500 are reserved for smaller nonprofits or those not fully meeting the eligibility criteria but aligning with the fund’s mission, including fiscally sponsored groups pending 501(c)(3) status. To apply, organizations must complete an online application and submit 2–3 JPEG program photos and any other required documentation via email. Applications must be submitted by an authorized employee such as an executive director or grants manager listed in the latest COROS report. If someone else submits the application, written approval from the executive director is necessary. Annual applications are advised to maintain consideration for ongoing funding. Eligibility is primarily limited to New Mexico-based nonprofits classified as public charities. Organizations from outside the state must register with NM COROS annually and submit two years of NM-specific financials. The fund does not support capital expenses, scholarships, debt retirement, travel, meeting costs, or organizations focused on research, faith, political activities, or grant-giving. Additionally, nonprofits with over $10 million in annual income or $20 million in net worth, based on New Mexico operations, are generally excluded. All grants require final approval from Vanguard Charitable. Organizations receiving over $20,000 in total funding are encouraged to meet in person in Santa Fe to maintain eligibility for continued funding. For inquiries, applicants may contact the fund at hello@zimmer-foundation.org or call 505-466-1676.