The FINRA Investor Education Foundation’s General Grant Program supports research that enhances financial literacy and decision-making capabilities among individuals in the United States. This private foundation focuses on empowering the public with knowledge, skills, and tools to make informed financial choices throughout their lives. The Foundation is affiliated with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), a key self-regulatory organization in the U.S. financial industry, underscoring its commitment to investor protection and education.
Grants through this program typically range from $50,000 to $100,000, with a general preference for projects under the $100,000 threshold. While the program does not specify a total funding pool or number of grants, indirect costs or overheads are capped at 10% of direct costs. Most grant-funded projects are expected to be completed within 24 months. Grants are awarded only after successful negotiation of a grant agreement and are disbursed in performance-based installments.
Eligibility for this program is limited to IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organizations and state or other public colleges and universities. The Foundation explicitly excludes funding for individuals, securities firms regulated by FINRA, their affiliates, and organizations with conflicts of interest or discriminatory practices. Additionally, the Foundation generally avoids funding local or international programs, capital expenses, staff salaries, and projects with proprietary elements or political activities.
The application process begins with the submission of a Project Concept Form. Upon review, selected applicants are invited to submit a full proposal with specific instructions. The Foundation accepts concept forms on a rolling basis and responds within one month. The full application process, including review and notification, spans several months and includes evaluation by the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
All submissions must be sent via email to the official Foundation address. Key contacts for inquiries include Laura Rowell and Robert Ganem of the FINRA Foundation. The grant program is ongoing, and applications are accepted throughout the year without fixed deadlines. Although no explicit cadence is mentioned, the rolling nature and the use of invitations for full proposals suggest that applicants should prepare proactively.
Strong focus on national scope and long-term financial education impact; avoid local-only or proprietary content.
