Operating Grants

The Daniel Foundation of Alabama provides operating grants, up to $25,000, aimed at strengthening communities and enhancing quality of life. Key focus areas include early childhood education, K-12 academic improvements, adult life skills, arts and community support, and health services. Eligible organizations must be based in Alabama and meet specific criteria, including revenue limits and employee requirements, to qualify for funding to benefit local residents.

The following priority areas will be eligible for operating grants up to $25,000.
Birth - 5
Giving kids birth to 5 a positive start and preparing them to be successful in school.
K-12
Programs working on academic improvement and better educational outcomes for children in Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Adult Life Skills
Programs for adults that teach skills that lead to independence and life success.
Arts
Support for arts organizations with year round programming.
Youth Mentoring
Groups working with children and youth who directly mentor or teach skills needed to be successful in school and life.
Basic Needs
Primarily addressing short term needs for food, emergency shelter, clothing, safety, etc.
Health Care
Programs providing health screenings and medical care and services for low income individuals and families and the uninsured.
Mental Health
Programs supporting mental wellness through counseling and therapeutic services and activities.
Veterans
Programs related specifically to veterans.

Eligibility

IRS Determination Letter must indicate an effective date of exemption that is at least two years prior to the submission date of the LOI.Organization must have filed Form 990/990EZ within the last two years. 990-N does meet this qualification.Revenue (line 12, Form 990)/ (line 9, Form 990EZ) cannot exceed 5,000,000.Revenue mix must not include more than 75% government grants or contracts.Organization must have at least one paid employee.Organization must be based in Alabama; funding will only be considered for the benefit of Alabama residents.Organizations awarded funding must sit out one year before being eligible to apply for future funding (e.g., if an award is made in 2026, application cannot be made again until 2028).

Ineligibility

Higher educationPublic schools and public school foundationsPublic librariesSummer learning (we will continue to participate in the SAIL (Summer Adventures in Learning) opportunities)Historical preservationGreenspace projects such as parks, playgrounds, trails, etc.Medical researchLong-term affordable housingAdult Leadership programsCommunity revitalizationFor 2026, we will not be considering organizations that have never received board funding from the Foundation.