The community foundation provides grants to various entities, including 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies, and religious organizations. For those not fitting these categories, partnering with a fiscal agent may be necessary, or the foundation may consider eligibility on a case-by-case basis. Grants are typically limited to projects serving the geographic areas covered by the foundation.
Eligible projects include community-serving programs, seed funding for new initiatives, capacity-building activities (such as staff training, technology upgrades, or new staff), capital improvements like facility renovations, and endowment funds for specific initiatives. However, requests for endowment funding are less likely to receive support unless tied to a specific purpose.
The foundation does not fund incomplete, incorrect, or late applications, political activities, discriminatory projects, or debt retirement. Grant applications are accepted during two cycles: the Fall Cycle (September 15 - November 15) and the Spring Cycle (February 15 - April 15), with funds such as the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund, Health Needs for Smith County Fund, and Kansas Health Foundation Fund available.
For more details or assistance, applicants can contact Director Aurielle Hughes or access resources like a grant support center, instructional videos, and brochures.
