Gilchrist Foundation: Endowment Grant

Gilchrist Foundation: Endowment Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Gilchrist Foundation
Last Updated: February 13, 2026

Summary

The Gilchrist Foundation offers endowment grants aimed at supporting pre-selected non-profit organizations that align with its mission in the arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief. Although unsolicited applications are not accepted, organizations can request an invitation to apply. The Foundation prefers projects that demonstrate robust board participation and offers matching funds, particularly favoring initiatives in the Sioux City area. Approximately 55% of grants are allocated to endowment and capital campaigns.

Overview

NOTE: The Gilchrist Foundation does not accept any unsolicited applications for funds, but makes grants to pre-selected charities which have been Invited to apply based on the perceived match of both organizations’ missions. Any entity wishing to apply for funding from the Foundation will need to first request an INVITATION to apply. Upon approval of your request for invitation to apply for funding, you will be sent a URL link where you can download, complete, and submit your Project Grant Application, by the "full proposal" deadline above. Mission & Purpose The mission of The Gilchrist Foundation is to further the philanthropic interests of the Gilchrist family in the arts, wildlife and conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief. The Foundation provides incentives and funds to pre-selected non-profit organizations that further these goals, with a preference for the Sioux City area. Most grants are for a single year, but multi-year grants may be requested. The mission of the Gilchrist Foundation is to carry out the philanthropy established by the Gilchrist family. The emphasis is on fostering the long-term viability of the charity and enabling special projects rather than supplying short-term operating funds. The Foundation provides incentives and funds to pre-selected non-profit organizations, with a preference for the Sioux City areas. Interests considered for funding include: Wildlife and Conservation Organizations that support wildlife habitats, humane treatment of animals, conservation efforts, dogs and birds are encouraged to apply for funding through the Gilchrist Foundation. Jocelyn Gilchrist had a special fondness for animals. She also loved fishing and visiting wildlife parks and habitats. The Arts & Public Broadcasting Orchestra music, art museums and theater were all passions of Jocelyn Gilchrist. As she grew older, she enjoyed listening to orchestra performances on local public broadcasting stations. As such, organizations related to the Arts or public broadcasting are invited to apply for funding through the Gilchrist Foundation. Disaster Relief Jocelyn was deeply concerned about supporting people in need and was specifically interested in disaster relief. Organizations designed to aid in disaster recovery are encouraged to apply for funding through the Gilchrist Endowment Grant The goal of an endowment grant is to promote viable endowments, with healthy board participation. The Gilchrist Foundation strives to be a significant contributor to the endowment, without becoming the main supporter of the endowment. Over the years, the Gilchrist Foundation has made about 55% of its total grants to endowment and capital campaigns. The Foundation also has a pattern of awarding about 45% of its total grants to the Arts, including not only the fine arts, but also cultural and historical groups.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. The Foundation provides incentives and funds to pre-selected non-profit organizations that further these goals, with a preference for the Sioux City areas.