Arnold F. Keller, Jr. Grant for New Initiatives/Program Expansion

Geographic Scope: Capitol Hill neighborhood, Washington, DC

Program Overview:
The Keller Grant is a single $25,000 grant awarded each year. Similar to Innovation Grants, it supports the creation or expansion of major initiatives with potential to significantly benefit the Capitol Hill community.

Focus Areas:

• Creation of new major initiatives
• Expansion of existing programs
• Initiatives addressing timely community needs
• Programs supporting one of the Foundation's core areas:
  • Schools and Teachers
  • Youth Programming
  • Arts and Culture
  • Social Services
  • Community Spaces

Preference Criteria:
The Foundation gives preference to:

• Organizations that have previously received Foundation support
• Applications that address a timely community need

Examples of Recent Winners:

• Organizations that increased assistance for unhoused neighborhood residents
• Organizations that assisted vulnerable populations during COVID pandemic
• Eastern High School's centennial celebration project
• Literacy program expansion in Capitol Hill elementary schools

Note: Organizations submitting proposals in the area of arts and culture should apply for the John Franzén Grant instead.

Award Timeline:

• Grant award announcement: Typically by February
• Award presentation: Spring at Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awards ceremony

How to Apply for Keller Grant

Submission Format:

• Application letter format (not a standard form)
• Maximum length: Four pages

Submission Methods (choose one):

1. Mail a hard copy to:
   • Mark Weinheimer
   • Chair, CHCF Grants Committee
   • 419 East Capitol Street, SE
   • Washington, DC 20003

Deadline: Monday, October 27, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.

Application Letter Should Include:

• Description of your new initiative or program expansion
• Explanation of how it will significantly benefit the Capitol Hill community
• How it creates or expands a major initiative
• How it addresses a timely community need (if applicable)
• Explanation of previous Foundation support received (if applicable)
• Keep to four pages maximum

Important Note:

• If your proposal is in arts and culture, apply for the John Franzén Grant instead

For Questions:

Download Instructions: Download instructions for the application letter are available on the Foundation's website.