We do not accept unsolicited requests for large grants; all large grants are initiated by the Foundation.
Archives: FAQs
Where can I find the grant application form?
Application forms are made available online one month prior to the grant deadlines listed above. If it is more than one month before the deadline, the application form for that deadline will not be viewable yet. The Foundation only reviews applications submitted through our Online Grants Manager System. To access an application form, you will need to log into the Online Grants Manager System. Click on the green “Apply” button at the top of our homepage to get started. For more information, you can read our Online Grants Manager guide.
What size grant should we ask for?
The majority of grants are in the $7,500 – $30,000 range, however, it is unusual for an organization to receive more than $15,000 for a first-time grant. Also, please note that larger grants ($50,000 and above) are initiated by the Foundation. Please look at the Foundation’s Grants List for more information or contact the Foundation for guidance.
What are the deadlines to apply for a grant?
- For Winter 2022, the deadline is 11:59pm on January 14, 2022 (April Board Review).
- For Spring 2022, the deadline is 11:59pm on March 4, 2022 (June Board Review).
- For Summer 2022, the deadline is 11:59pm on June 3, 2022 (September Board Review).
- For Fall 2022, the deadline is 11:59pm on September 16, 2022 (December Board Review).
Has the Foundation changed its area of focus or priorities as a result of COVID-19?
The Foundation’s focus remains on legal services and social justice in Northern California. However, we are prioritizing organizations with which we have an existing relationship at this time. If you are new to the Foundation, you may apply but it is highly unlikely that your request will result in a grant.
How often do you consider grant requests?
The board meets four times a year to review grant requests.
Do you fund national or statewide organizations?
Yes, if the organization has an office and/or staff on the ground running a program/project in Northern California.
How does the Foundation define Northern California?
We consider Northern California to include Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, Stanislaus, Tuolumne, and Alpine Counties and all counties north of these five counties.
What types of organizations does the Foundation fund in service to its mission?
Except for remote counties in the far north where the Foundation supports Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) programs, the Board focuses exclusively on organizations that provide direct legal services and legal and/or policy advocacy.
What is the mission of the Foundation?
The Foundation’s mission is to promote social justice in Northern California through legal services and advocacy.