Zimmer Community Fund Program

The Edw. F. Zimmer Community Fund is a donor-advised fund managed by Vanguard Charitable that supports grassroots and small-to-medium-sized nonprofits working to enhance the quality of life, culture, and environment across New Mexico. The fund emphasizes local engagement and empowers community organizations through modest but impactful grants. With a hands-on and locally rooted philosophy, the Zimmer Community Fund is committed to uplifting initiatives that drive meaningful change throughout New Mexico’s communities. Grants are awarded on a quarterly basis, with deadlines falling on the 15th of March, June, September, and December. The current opportunity is for the 3rd Quarter 2025 cycle, and applications must be submitted by September 15, 2025. Approved applicants receive funding in the same quarter, with the possibility of a second grant six months later, contingent on re-approval. Applicants are required to submit an online application, email 2–3 JPEG photos for marketing, and include any grant-specific supporting documentation. Notably, the fund relies on the applicant to initiate follow-up after submission; the fund does not initiate contact if questions arise. Only authorized employees, such as the executive director or grants manager listed on the latest NM COROS report, may submit applications unless a written confirmation is submitted. Three types of grants are offered. The standard Unrestricted Grant is available to New Mexico-based public charities that have filed US-990 long forms for the last three years. These grants are capped at 5% of direct program expenses minus program income and may not exceed $25,000 semi-annually for larger nonprofits. Targeted Grants are for one-time or unique expenses and require pre-submission consultation. Token of Appreciation Grants, which award $500 annually, are available to nonprofits that do not fully meet eligibility criteria but align with the program’s values—this includes organizations using fiscal sponsors or those with limited 990 history. Organizations eligible for funding are primarily public charities based in New Mexico. Out-of-state nonprofits can apply if they register annually with NM COROS and submit financials that detail New Mexico-specific revenues and expenses. Funding will be based solely on these figures. Certain types of organizations and expenditures are not eligible, including those that do not comply with government regulations, research-focused entities, faith-based programs, lobbying groups, and those requesting funds for capital expenses, scholarships, debt retirement, travel, or meetings. Additionally, organizations with income exceeding $10 million or a net worth above $20 million, based on New Mexico operations, are generally excluded. When total grants awarded exceed $20,000, the foundation recommends a personal meeting in Santa Fe to discuss the organization’s goals and future funding prospects. Grants are finalized and distributed by Vanguard Charitable, often through PayPal. Neglecting to acknowledge grant receipt may affect future funding eligibility. The foundation reserves the right to change grant amounts, frequency, or continued participation at its discretion. Applicants can direct questions or submit documentation to the foundation via email at hello@zimmer-foundation.org or by mail to PO Box 6815, Santa Fe, NM 87502. The contact phone number is 505-466-1676. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and ongoing participation may require annual reapplication to stay active within the foundation’s pool of grantees.

Applicants must follow up post-submission; the fund does not initiate contact. Acknowledge awards to stay in good standing.