FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About The Schenectady Foundation's Grant Program

Does the Foundation make grants only for capital and equipment expenses?

No.

While it is true that nearly all of The Schenectady Foundation's grants prior to 2000 were for capital projects or equipment, our current grant program is open to any non-profit project or program, and may include operating expenses as part of the proposal. Proposals including a combination of capital and seed or operating funds are also eligible.

How often can an organization apply for a grant?

Generally, an organization may apply one year following full payment of their previous grant from the Foundation.

We are in the process of applying to the IRS for our tax-exempt status (501c3). Can we apply for a grant now?

No. You must have received a letter from the IRS designating your organization as 501c3. An alternative is to have an established 501c3 act as the fiduciary agent and applicant for your project.

What is the grant amount we should request?

There is no particular amount that should be requested; the amount is primarily dependent on the nature of the project and the budget required for implementation. Generally, The Schenectady Foundation tends to be a significant part (20% - 25%) of a project, but is rarely the primary or only source of funding. The importance and impact of the project for the community is a key determinant of the amount of the grant.

Can we ask for a matching grant?

Yes. In many cases a matching grant will stimulate success with other funding sources. In some cases the Foundation may offer a matching or challenge grant without having been asked for one.

Our program does not really address the Foundation's grant emphasis areas. Are we still eligible?

Yes. The Schenectady Foundation is open to new ideas and programs that have potential for benefiting the community. However, your proposal is less likely to be a priority within the Foundation's very competitive grant program if it does not substantively address a grant emphasis area.

Can we ask for a grant payable over a period of years?

Yes. The Foundation often makes large multi-year grants, and suggests that program-related (operating) grants be structured over a two to three year period to enable the organization to develop other reliable sources of funding.

What kind of reporting does the Foundation require of its grant recipients?

Grant recipients are responsible for providing periodic reports during the project, and a final report upon the project's conclusion. Reporting will be based upon the project's proposed outcomes and achievements. The Schenectady Foundation will typically want to know:

• Have the project results been achieved? If not, why, and what will the organization do differently to improve its results?
• Has the project achieved its financial targets in terms of completing and/or sustaining the project over time?
• Has the project used the grant funds appropriately, and for the purposes stated in the grant proposal?

In some cases a small amount of the grant will be withheld until receipt of the final grant report.

Do you have other questions about the grant program? Submit your question here.