Background Information on Foundation Grants and Corporate Giving

Foundations are non-profit organizations that make funds available, usually to other non-profit organizations, for some type of public benefit or service. Corporations that are interested in giving funds for charitable purposes sometimes establish foundations, but can also give funds directly through corporate giving programs.

Most foundations and corporations have restrictions associated with their charitable giving. For example, giving may be restricted to certain geographical areas, to certain types of organizations, to certain social issues, and/or to specific population groups.

Fortunately, grantseekers have many resources available to assist them in learning about foundation and corporate grants.

There are many excellent sites on the internet that provide valuable information about what foundations are and how they function; how to go about researching funding opportunities; how to develop grant proposals; etc.

To learn more on the topic of foundation grants and corporate giving, your first stop on the web should be the Foundation Center. The Foundation Center's site provides comprehensive learning and resource materials for grant seekers. Follow the links within the site for free online training and tutorials.

Be sure to visit the other foundation grants pages in DSAAPD's web site to find out more about where to look for grants; tips on applying for grants; getting technical assistance from our staff; and more.

Good luck!