Introduction
The Foundation funds agencies that provide critical support for those individuals and families with the greatest need, as well as organizations whose work improves the quality of life for individuals and families within our three county (Onondaga, Madison & Oswego) investment area. In addition, we offer assistance to those organizations that contribute to our cultural and artistic landscape.
The Foundation only invites proposals after meeting with organizations. If you are interested in applying you should complete a Grant Inquiry Form and you will be called by program staff. You may also meet with program staff even if you do not have a specific project as yet in mind.
Developing the Capacity of Communities and Organizations (DCCO grants)
Purpose: Through our grantmaking, it is the Gifford Foundation’s goal to develop communities and organizations by supporting and expanding their vision for the future, providing them with resources and tools to achieve their vision and insure their access and inclusion in discussions concerning the community.
- Grants concentrate specifically in the following counties: Onondaga, Oswego and Madison.
- Please be aware that our average grant award is $12,000.
- Please note that an invitation to submit does NOT guarantee funding.
- Proposals can be submitted at any time during the year. Drafts are accepted upon invitation to submit a proposal.
For 2011 the Foundation will continue its commitment to capacity building and community growth. We are now identifying with more specificity the focus areas that encompass these goals.
- Grants are awarded to agencies in the following four areas of focus: (You MUST choose at least one of these areas on which to focus.)
- Projects that allow organizations to become more efficient. This may include improved technology, staff development, software, energy/environmental changes, exploration of strategic partnerships, capital, etc.
- Projects that work to develop new programs or strengthen current programs that align with community needs, as well as projects that seek to provide opportunities for organizations to build on community plans or aspirations. This may include assessments and evaluations of existing programs, community convening’s, collaborations, arts and cultural events and new programs that evolve from community or organizational planning activities.
- Projects that engage and develop board capacity. This may include board training, retreats, conferences, consulting assistance, etc.
- Projects that diversify revenue streams. This may include business planning, collaborations, development of fee for service or other fundraising avenues, etc.
NOTE FOR ALL ARTS AND CULTURAL ORGANIZATIONS:
The Foundation requires submission of a Cultural Data Project report with all proposals. In many instances this report will replace information required as part of the guidelines. For further information on the
Cultural Data Project please click
here and also visit our
FAQs section. Creating a CDP data profile does require some time for input and review; please allow for this when developing your timeline for applying to the Foundation.