FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Foundation fund organizations and projects outside the United States?

Yes, provided there is mission alignment and the organization is a US based 501(c)3.

Does the Foundation make General Operation Grants?

Sometimes, depending on the details of the application.

Does the Foundation have a formal application?

Yes. The Foundation’s formal online application process begins with a Letter of Inquiry available hereOrganizations whose Letters of Inquiry have been accepted will be invited to submit a complete grant application.

How do I apply?

Grant application begins with a LOI or pre-application available here. This is reviewed by Foundation staff. Where appropriate, staff will request the grant seeker submit a more lengthy application for further consideration by the Board.

You can start the online application, save it, and return later to continue working on it. You will receive an email confirmation that we have received your pre-application/LOI and will generally hear back from us within 3-4 weeks.

What are the deadlines for Foundation requests?

Letters of Inquiry are accepted any time.  Within 45 days of review, applicants are notified of grant proposal invitation status.

The Pincus Family Foundation reviews grant requests throughout the year. Grant approvals take place at Foundation Board meetings in February, May, September, and November. Generally, the process takes 2-3 months from inquiry to approval.

Are there organizations the Foundation does not fund?

The Foundation will not make grants to or for the following:

  • Political parties, candidates or political activities
  • Individuals
  • Religious organizations where the primary purpose is promotion of a specific religious doctrine
  • Event promotion (such as telethons, walk-a-thons, golf tournaments, parties)
  • Past operating deficits
  • Travel or conference expenses
  • 509(a)(3) organizations

What grant amount should my organization apply for?

Grants vary in size based on the program or project. We value organizations that have a diversified base of support and advise that agencies should not rely on the Foundation for substantial, ongoing annual support.

Does the Foundation make multi-year grants?

Yes, the Foundation does make multi-year grants depending on the type of project and level of partnership.

Will I be required to submit reports showing how my grant is being used?

Each grant carries different reporting requirements. These requirements will be discussed when an organization is notified of grant approval. It is the responsibility of the grant recipient to ensure that the grant is used for the purposes indicated in the grant award.

How will my organization know if its application has been approved?

An applicant’s Program Officer is contacted directly by a Foundation representative soon after the Foundation’s Board has acted upon that applicant’s proposal.

Once my organization’s grant proposal has been approved, how soon will we receive the award?

Payment schedules vary and are described in the award letter. Some awards are made as grant pledges, which may carry contingency requirements to be met before grant payments are made.