Giving Tree Grant Program

The Giving Tree Grant Program is the flagship community-focused initiative administered by the Community Foundation through its 29 affiliate offices across the state. This competitive grantmaking program supports a broad array of charitable projects that either address immediate local needs or hold the potential for broader statewide impact. Each affiliate manages its own Giving Tree Endowment and leads the review process locally, guided by committees of community leaders who are most familiar with regional priorities. The program conducts two major application cycles each year: January 10 through February 15 and July 10 through August 15. Eligibility for the grants is limited to organizations that serve counties where affiliates are actively accepting proposals during a given cycle. In the Spring 2026 cycle, multiple counties are participating, including Faulkner, Fayetteville Area (Washington County), and Phillips, among others. Each affiliate may have unique focus areas and funding ranges; for instance, Faulkner County is prioritizing projects addressing early literacy, food security, and child physical activity, while Fayetteville Area focuses on animal welfare and support for individuals with disabilities. The program is open to 501(c)(3) public charities, schools, hospitals, and government agencies operating in eligible counties. Regional or statewide organizations may apply but must demonstrate how their proposed project will directly impact the county they are applying through. Funding is typically available in the $500 to $4,000 range, depending on the affiliate, with some offering smaller or larger amounts based on local resources and priorities. Applicants may seek either capacity building support—such as upgrades to infrastructure, technology, or strategic planning—or program/project support for specific services, initiatives, or outreach activities. While most grants fall into the project support category, capacity building requests are also welcome. Applications require organizations to submit a description of the need or opportunity being addressed, details of the funding request and intended outcomes, a project budget, and an explanation of how success will be measured. Certain types of requests are generally not considered for funding. These include annual fundraising campaigns, capital campaigns, religious or political projects, multi-year funding, scholarships, and salaries. Applicants are encouraged to consult with their affiliate's executive director to confirm eligibility and alignment with local priorities before submitting. Applications must be submitted through the Community Foundation's online portal. Organizations are advised to contact their local affiliate for timelines, average grant size, and application guidance. The Foundation also encourages donors to support their local Giving Tree Endowment to sustain this impactful grantmaking work.

Align proposals with affiliate priorities and show direct local impact; statewide orgs should tailor by county.