Our Process
1. Once the grant application is received via the online form, Whitearn board members will review all applications to confirm basic eligibility requirements are met and the application is complete. Any request for funding of equipment should be accompanied by a formal estimate.
Applicants may be contacted to provide clarification or further detail on their budget or proposed project.
2. Eligible applications will then be forwarded to the selection committee and recommendations from the selection committee will be forwarded to the board for final approval.
3. Applicants will receive notification of the outcome of their funding requests 2 to 3 months after the application deadline.
4. Reporting back to the Foundation by donees is expected at specified intervals according to project timelines, as stipulated in the grant agreement.
5. The deadlines for submission of grant proposals are April 1st and October 1st.
*Please note that requests for funding often exceed the amount available and not every eligible application will receive funding. Funding provided in one year does not guarantee funding will be awarded in subsequent years. The amount approved for each project may be less than the amount requested, and will be based on how closely the project meets grant criteria, eligibility of expenses, the number of requests received, and consideration for providing support across the country.
Applications are assessed based on clear criteria, including:
The project is aligned with one or more of Whitearn’s funding themes and priorities.
The application is complete. All questions must be answered and responses should provide enough information for the selection committee to make a recommendation.
The proposed expenses for the project are eligible under the program guidelines.
The application identifies a demonstrated need or community priority.
The proposed project is designed to address the need or issue. The project is feasible, will reach its intended audience, and is likely to achieve the expected benefits and outcomes for participants.
The project complements other community initiatives. The project involves partnerships, is not a duplication of services, and has community support.
The project includes an evaluation plan for determining its success and the outcomes achieved by participants.
The budget is realistic and supports the project design and key activities.
The application demonstrates the rationale for the funding requested and how other financial resources will be secured to support the project.