The Achelis and Bodman Foundation Grant Program

The Achelis & Bodman Foundation is a private philanthropic organization that supports nonprofit initiatives in New York City and northern New Jersey. The Foundation directs its resources toward projects aligned with its six core areas of interest: Arts and Culture, Education, Employment, Health, Public Policy, and Youth and Families. These program areas reflect the Foundation’s commitment to enhancing civic life and community well-being in the designated geographic region. Organizations interested in the Foundation’s support are encouraged to review detailed descriptions of past grants to better understand the types of projects and initiatives typically funded. The Foundation does not operate with application cycles or firm deadlines. Instead, it reviews grant inquiries on a rolling basis throughout the year. Funding decisions are made at one of the Foundation’s three annual board meetings, held in May, September, and December. The application process begins with a brief inquiry letter, and full proposals are submitted by invitation only. Organizations are advised not to send full proposals or application materials unless specifically requested, and materials should not be mailed to the Foundation’s physical office. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt nonprofit organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The organization must also be based in New York City or northern New Jersey, as the Foundation does not fund entities operating outside of these regions. Ineligible applicants and activities include public K-12 schools (with the exception of charter schools), endowments, capital campaigns, small arts groups, housing projects, fundraising events, and organizations primarily funded by government sources. The Foundation also avoids providing direct grants to individuals or funding organizations based outside the United States. To initiate an application, eligible organizations should email an inquiry letter to application@achelisbodman.org. The letter must summarize the project’s history, objectives, time frame, budget, evaluation plan, and key staff. It should be printed on organizational letterhead and include the contact information of both the organization and the individual submitting the inquiry. The inquiry must also be accompanied by the organization's latest annual report, most recent audited financial statements, and IRS tax-exemption determination letter. Following review, inquiries consistent with the Foundation’s mission and priorities may be selected for further evaluation. This may involve requests for additional documentation, site visits, or meetings. Given the limited size of the Foundation’s staff and its high volume of applications, only a small number of proposals can be funded. The Foundation also does not typically fund the same organization on an annual recurring basis, emphasizing one-time or infrequent support. While there is no posted limit on the size of grants awarded, the Foundation's commitment to strategic philanthropy means that funding is targeted and selective. All grant decisions rest with the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, who evaluate proposals based on alignment with program areas, organizational strength, project feasibility, and long-term impact. The Foundation does not publish a list of average or maximum award sizes, and applicants are advised to tailor requests based on realistic project needs and comparability to previously funded initiatives.

Do not send full proposals unless requested. Include latest annual report, audited financials, and IRS tax-exemption letter in email. Do not mail anything.