What is the Greater Worcester Community Foundation interested in funding?
The Foundation is dedicated to making our region a vibrant and healthy place for all people. We use the discretionary endowment funds entrusted to us by local donors to meet this goal.
Grants are made across a wide range of focus areas. We are interested in funding all aspects of community life. Therefore, our grants are made for the public enjoyment of music, art, literature and history; for the natural environment and green spaces; for the health of children and adults. We want to make neighborhoods safe and pleasant and create homes for people. We help students do better in school and in the workforce. All of this is done through nonprofit organizations working in these areas.
What is the typical grant size?
Grants from discretionary funds vary in size from $5,000 to $25,000. Usually, these grants are $15,000 or less.
Annual operating budgets of grantees range from under $250,000 to more than $10 million. We are not usually the primary source of funding for a grantee’s project. (See recent Foundation grants in our Annual Report or view Recent Grants).
What is your geographic territory?
The Foundation was created to serve all of the cities and towns in Worcester County. Your program must be located in or benefit residents of Worcester County although your headquarters may be located elsewhere.
Do you prefer new grants or renewals?
The Foundation funds both types of proposals. We invest in new ideas that need money to get started as well as time-tested efforts that need grants to keep them going. We welcome first-time applicants as well as existing and past grantees.
Should I call you before submitting an application?
Yes, we would like to hear from you in advance, particularly if you are applying to us for the first time or plan a new program. This conversation will allow you to find out more about us and how we operate, and enable us to learn about your organization. Call (508) 755-0980 and ask to speak with a program officer (Pam Kane or Lois Smith).
How do you support applicants as they prepare a grant proposal?
Early in the process, you will be assigned a program officer, who will develop an understanding of your organization and its distinctive strengths, challenges and aspirations. Your program officer will guide and advise you throughout the process.
How do you assess my organization's financials and project budget?
As part of your application, you provide financial information that includes a recently audited financial statement or its equivalent, a current organizational operating budget and a detailed project budget noting anticipated revenues and costs.