Grant Guidelines

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Grantmaking Philosophy

The purpose of the Grants Process is to accomplish the mission of the Foundation through innovative and effective grantmaking and stewardship in a way that:

• Encourages innovation;
• Builds capacity; and
• Recognizes the positive impact of diversity to improve lives in our community.

Grant Guidelines

Who Can Apply for a Grant?

By Invitation Only.

Criteria for Grantmaking

All organizations applying for Foundation funds must be able to demonstrate the following organizational characteristics:

• Staff capacity, sound fiscal policy and responsible financial management.
• An elected, engaged Board of Directors which fairly reflects the organization’s constituencies and has the ability and policy-making authority to complete the proposed project.
• Capacity to conduct program evaluation.
• Collaboration and cooperation with other organizations.
• Understanding of and ability to describe the relationship between the proposed project and other services, and service providers within the community.
• A base of community and financial support.

The McKenzie Foundation does not fund:

• General operating support for organizations.
• Private non-operating foundations.
• Organizations where person(s) are excluded from employment, volunteer participation, or agency services because of age, gender, race, national origin, religious beliefs and background, physical abilities, disability, sexual orientation, economic circumstances, and any other characteristic protected by law. Exceptions may be made for religious organizations who can demonstrate bona fide occupational qualifications based on religious belief for employment and volunteer participation.
• Needs assessments.
• Comprehensive program evaluations.
• Endowment campaigns.
• Conference expenses, memberships, tickets to events or informational visits by experts or recognized speakers.
• Political candidates or organizations, fraternal organizations or veteran organizations.
• Advertising or telephone solicitations.
• Feasibility studies for capital campaigns.
• Fundraising expenses or activities or staff positions related to development or fundraising.