Gilchrist Foundation: Project Grant

The Gilchrist Foundation offers project grants to pre-selected non-profit organizations that align with its mission in the arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief, primarily focusing on the Sioux City area. Organizations can apply for funding to enhance or establish programs that are self-sustaining, as the foundation does not intend to provide long-term financing. Interested parties must first request an invitation to apply for funding.

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 Foundation.
The goal of a project grant is to allow recipients to enhance existing programs or to offer new programs that will further the mission and outreach of the organization. The expectation is that foundation support for a program is temporary and the program will become self-sustaining. It is not the intention of the Gilchrist Foundation to become a permanent budget line item in support of an ongoing program, even one that closely matches the Gilchrist Foundation’s mission.
Over the years, the Gilchrist Foundation has made about 45% of its total grant awards to special projects. While some grants have gone to social service agencies or institutions of higher education, they have had a conservation or arts purpose.

Eligibility

The Foundation provides incentives and funds to pre-selected non-profit organizations that further these goals, with a preference for the Sioux City areas.