The Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF), formerly known as The Community Foundation, is a nonprofit public charity that supports philanthropic efforts in Southern California by managing charitable funds and distributing grants to nonprofit organizations. Its mission is to strengthen the Inland Empire through philanthropy, and it holds national certification standards for excellence as a member of several foundation councils.
The Idyllwild Community Fund (ICF), a permanent affiliate fund of IECF, was established in the mid-1990s through anonymous community donations. It serves the Idyllwild area by offering financial support to nonprofit programs that enhance local quality of life. Each year, interest earned from the fund’s assets is awarded as grants to local 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Grant decisions are guided by an advisory committee composed of Idyllwild residents committed to community improvement.
Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or other qualified nonprofits that operate in the Idyllwild and surrounding mountain communities. Grants support projects in the areas of the arts, education, welfare, environmental protection, and community safety. Funding typically ranges between $1,200 and $2,500, with a maximum request of $5,000. Large capital expenditures and requests from individuals or for political or religious programs are ineligible.
Applications must be submitted online through the IECF grant portal, where applicants are required to complete an eligibility assessment and upload several documents, including IRS determination letters, financial statements, budget narratives, and board member listings. If equipment purchases are included, at least three competitive bids must be submitted.
Grants are competitive and evaluated based on broad impact, program integrity, fiscal responsibility, and potential to serve underserved populations. Administrative expenses may be included, not exceeding 10% of the total funding request. Program stipends may also be considered as long as they are tied to specific activities and not general operations.
The application portal opened in February/March 2025 and closes at 5:00 PM Pacific Time on April 11, 2025. All applicants will be notified of decisions by the week of July 19, 2025. Selected grantees will receive funding for a one-year period beginning August 1, 2025, and ending July 31, 2026. Technical assistance and a portal guide are available on the IECF website. For further information, applicants can contact grant-info@iegives.org.
