The Karma Foundation provides financial support to local, national, and international nonprofit organizations. Within New Jersey, grant funding is restricted to projects based in Middlesex, Union, and Mercer Counties. However, New Jersey-based organizations with a regional or statewide scope are also eligible for consideration. The foundation operates with a focus on enhancing organizational capacity and addressing community needs through a flexible and responsive grantmaking approach.
The foundation typically awards grants ranging from five hundred to twenty-five thousand dollars, with the majority of grants falling between one thousand and ten thousand dollars. These grants are open to organizations that have secured 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Funding is available for a wide variety of purposes including capacity building, capital needs, disaster relief, equipment and materials, operating expenses, special projects and programs, and support for start-up initiatives. The foundation encourages applicants to leverage Karma Foundation funding to secure additional grants from other sources.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and can be submitted at any time during the year. Organizations interested in applying must first complete a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) available in the Applying section of the foundation’s website. After submission, the board will review the LOI within two to four weeks to determine if a full proposal should be invited. Applicants will be notified of the foundation’s decision within ninety days of receiving their proposal. Successful applicants may be publicly acknowledged on the foundation’s website.
To support organizations unfamiliar with the Karma Foundation’s funding process, it is recommended that new applicants email info@karmafoundation.org for assistance prior to beginning the LOI or application process. The foundation is also proactive in identifying potential grantees and may reach out to eligible organizations to encourage them to apply, even if they have not previously submitted a request.
While the foundation strives to fund as many worthwhile projects as possible, the number of qualifying applications often exceeds the available financial resources. Consequently, not all meritorious proposals can be supported. Applicants are encouraged to present well-prepared and compelling submissions to maximize their chances of receiving funding. No specific application questions, evaluation criteria, phone contact information, or exact award or close dates are provided in the available documentation.
The foundation suggests that new applicants email them for assistance before beginning the LOI or application process.
