Operating Grants

Operating Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Daniel Foundation of Alabama
Amount: Up to US $25,000
Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Summary

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.

Overview

NOTE: For 2026, we will not be considering organizations that have never received board funding from the Foundation. The Daniel Foundation of Alabama’s mission is to strengthen communities within Alabama and improve the quality of life for Alabama citizens. We believe this can be achieved through the support of effective organizations that are focused on building a healthy and well-educated population, living in a vibrant and collaborative community. Operating Grants 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 & Community 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. Health & Human Services 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

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. 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.