Joseph and Mercedes McMicking Foundation Grants

The Joseph and Mercedes McMicking Foundation is a private, California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to enhancing the quality of life for residents of the San Francisco Bay Area. The Foundation achieves this mission through grants and scholarships aimed primarily at supporting the education and welfare of children and their families. With a long-standing interest in areas such as arts, education, technology, and science, the Foundation provides financial support to organizations delivering meaningful and measurable impacts to the region’s youth across diverse backgrounds and communities. The Foundation awards grants exclusively to organizations that are exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and are not classified as private foundations under section 509(a). Organizations must either be located in the San Francisco Bay Area or demonstrate a direct and significant benefit to residents of that area. The Foundation does not provide grants to individuals, nor does it support initiatives aimed at influencing legislation. Moreover, organizations are restricted from submitting more than one proposal within a twelve-month period, ensuring broad access and rotation among applicants. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Executive Director via phone or email before submitting a Letter of Inquiry (LOI). Only after this initial consultation may selected organizations be invited to submit a full proposal through the Foundation’s online grant portal. This approach ensures alignment with the Foundation’s strategic interests and focuses the evaluation process on high-potential initiatives. Proposals must include a comprehensive organizational overview, a detailed description of the project or program for which funds are being requested, and financial documentation including both agency and project budgets, annual financial statements, and, when available, an audit. The Foundation’s Board of Directors typically reviews proposals within 90 days of receipt. Depending on the grant size and nature of the request, the Foundation may conduct additional due diligence through meetings, phone calls, or site visits. Awards may be granted for one-year terms, with consideration for two- to three-year funding in cases where project goals warrant extended support. However, the Foundation makes clear that it does not assume responsibility for the permanent funding of any program. Multi-year commitments are considered only when aligned with clearly articulated, long-term impact objectives. Grantees are required to sign a Grant Agreement upon receiving an award. At the end of the grant period, recipients must submit a final report detailing the outcomes of the funded program or project, including an itemized financial accounting of how grant funds were used. The specific reporting format and evaluation criteria will be outlined in the Grant Contract. This process enables the Foundation to track the effectiveness of its philanthropy and encourages accountability and transparency among its grantees. Through its structured yet flexible funding model, the Joseph and Mercedes McMicking Foundation plays a vital role in advancing educational equity, artistic expression, scientific inquiry, and technological innovation for children across the San Francisco Bay Area. Its commitment to thoughtful funding and active engagement with nonprofit partners ensures that its grants catalyze real change in communities and empower future generations.

Contact the Executive Director before submitting LOI. Ensure all financials and board information are current and complete. Highlight measurable objectives and local impact.