Spring Anschutz Family Foundation Grants

The Anschutz Family Foundation provides grant funding to support nonprofit and public service organizations whose activities are located within Colorado. Founded as a private charitable entity, the Foundation seeks to enhance the capacity and sustainability of small to mid-sized nonprofits across the state. The grantmaking mission emphasizes a balanced geographic distribution between urban and rural areas, with the intention of supporting underserved communities and enhancing community wellbeing throughout Colorado. Grants are awarded to a range of 501(c)(3) public charities, fiscally-sponsored projects of such entities, and government or tax-supported public institutions. To be considered, organizations must meet eligibility criteria including tax-exempt status and active programming within the state. The Foundation does not support organizations with operating budgets over $10 million or those in leadership transition. Other ineligible entities include religious organizations applying for religious activities, organizations engaged in political activity, and start-ups with under three years of operational history. Grant awards typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, though they generally do not exceed 10% of an organization's annual operating budget. These grants may be applied to general operating expenses or project-specific needs. While the Foundation occasionally offers challenge or matching grants, these are issued at the Foundation’s discretion during the spring funding cycle and are not granted upon request. Funding is explicitly not provided for capital campaigns (with rare exceptions for rural-focused organizations), arts and culture, healthcare, education, and several other restricted areas. The application process is conducted via an online portal, which becomes active approximately six weeks prior to the biannual deadlines of January 15 and July 1. A complete submission includes a full online application and required documents such as a narrative response, a table of income sources, and a major contributors list using the Foundation's provided templates. Though optional, first-time applicants and those unsure of alignment with the Foundation’s priorities are encouraged to submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) well in advance—at least three weeks before a grant deadline to ensure review within the current cycle. The evaluation of applications is based on alignment with the Foundation’s mission, clear articulation of goals and strategies, evidence of sustainability and community support, and financial health. Review staff may contact applicants for clarification, additional documents, or a site visit. Grant decisions are finalized and communicated by mail in late May or late November depending on the cycle. Organizations receiving funding in two consecutive years must wait one year before reapplying, and a final report on prior funding is required before a new request can be considered. Applicants are advised to reach out with questions via phone or email. The Foundation can be contacted at 303-293-2338 or by email at info@anschutzfamily.org. As a note, the Anschutz Family Foundation is distinct from The Anschutz Foundation and operates its own independent grantmaking process.

Submit early to avoid tech issues; ensure strong alignment; LOI is recommended for new or previously rejected applicants; reporting on past grants is mandatory before reapplying.