Application Process

1. Determine fit within grantmaking structure - Review the grantmaking programs on the Community Foundation's website. Current grant programs include Leadership Grants, Community Response Grants, & Technical Assistance Mini-Grants. Each grant program has its own schedule and eligibility requirements. Please review these requirements carefully to determine fit of the proposal. To discuss specific questions regarding the fit of the proposed program/project, please call Dan Raedeker at 515.244.0340 or raedeker@desmoinesfoundation.org.
   
   
2. Submit Letter of Intent - A Letter of Intent must be submitted to the Community Foundation utilizing the format provided. The Letter of Intent is reviewed to determine if the project merits further consideration in light of available resources and Leadership Agenda strategies.
   
   (Please note: Requests for Technical Assistance Mini-Grants need only submit a Letter of Application.)  
   
   
3. Invitation to apply - If the Community Foundation determines the program or project meets eligibility requirements, the nonprofit organization will receive an invitation to submit a full grant application.
   
   
4. Submit full application - The Grantmaking Committee reviews proposals and provides project analysis and funding recommendations to the Board of Directors. The Board must approve all grant awards made by the Community Foundation.
   
   
5. Notification - All applicants receive written notification of the Board's action. Those selected for a grant must sign a Grant Agreement upon receipt of the grant award, and must submit a project evaluation at the completion of the project.