Competitive Grants for Bucks County

The Bucks County Foundation provides competitive grant opportunities to nonprofit organizations that serve the residents of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. With a mission to enhance the quality of life across the region, the Foundation awards discretionary grants twice a year through a structured, community-informed process. This process draws on the knowledge of staff, trustees, and a diverse network of local ambassadors. Since 2004, the Foundation has granted over $2.78 million to more than 110 organizations, focusing on community improvement and support for underserved populations. Grants are awarded through two primary cycles, with deadlines on January 15 and July 15 annually. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and deliver services directly to Bucks County residents. Organizations with annual operating budgets under $500,000 may apply for general operating or program support, while those above that threshold must apply exclusively for program funding. All grants are for a single year, and successful applicants may reapply the following year. However, regardless of the outcome, an organization may only apply once every twelve months. The Foundation prioritizes proposals that identify and creatively address community needs, offer long-term solutions to underlying issues, and demonstrate collaboration across agencies. A key emphasis is placed on inclusivity and support for disadvantaged populations. Grant funding will not be awarded to organizations that discriminate on the basis of ethnicity, race, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or marital status, although programs serving historically marginalized groups are permitted. The Foundation does not fund individuals, private foundations, political campaigns, debt reduction, religious construction, or pass-through funding. Applicants must submit their proposals by the applicable deadline via the Foundation’s grant portal. No pre-application requirements such as letters of intent are indicated. The Foundation reserves the right to conduct site visits as part of its evaluation process. While specific evaluation criteria are not outlined, a focus on innovation, collaboration, and equity is evident throughout their stated priorities. Questions regarding eligibility or proposed submissions can be directed to the Foundation by phone at 215-997-8566. There is no stated contact email, and the Foundation does not provide a downloadable PDF of grant guidelines. The La-Mel Garden Fund, a separate initiative, supports nonprofits serving Perkasie and Sellersville and operates on a different timeline with an early October deadline. Nonetheless, both funding streams adhere to the Foundation’s overarching commitment to impactful, community-driven philanthropy.

Focus on underserved communities and present collaborative approaches; applications are limited to once every 12 months.