The Cowles Charitable Trust, based in Staten Island, New York, is a private philanthropic organization that supports nonprofit initiatives primarily in Downstate New York and South Florida. The Trust's mission centers on advancing the arts, education, ethical journalism, medical and climate research. While it occasionally supports national or international initiatives that align with its mission or represent longstanding partnerships, its funding is concentrated within these regional and thematic priorities.
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The Trust does not fund individuals, and applicants may apply no more than once every twelve months. Organizations that have been awarded a multi-year grant must wait until all disbursements have been completed before reapplying.
Applications must be submitted as a single PDF by email to submissions@cowlescharitabletrust.org. The proposal packet must include a completed cover sheet, a letter of application (no longer than two pages), project and organizational budgets, a list of governing officers with affiliations, and IRS proof of current tax-exempt status. Incomplete packets will not be reviewed. The cover letter must describe the organization's mission and current activities, the project’s purpose and objectives, and a timeline of planned activities. General Operating Support is also an allowable request category.
Proposals are reviewed quarterly, and must be received by December 1 for January consideration, March 1 for April, June 1 for July, and September 1 for the October meeting. If a deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the submission is due the next business day. The Trust replies to all inquiries and notifies applicants of funding decisions within two weeks of the corresponding board meeting. Phone calls and interviews are discouraged unless initiated by the Trust.
Award amounts are capped at $10,000 annually. Awardees are required to acknowledge receipt of funds and submit a final report within 60 days of completing the program or fully expending funds. Reports must detail whether objectives were achieved and outline any ongoing impact. The Trust may request additional updates as needed. Failure to submit reports may disqualify future applications.
Incomplete packets will not be reviewed; adhere to submission deadlines; no phone follow-ups allowed unless initiated by Trust.
