Richard S. Shineman Foundation Strategic Grants

The Richard S. Shineman Foundation Strategic Grants focus on enhancing community well-being in Oswego County. Established in honor of Dr. Richard S. Shineman, the foundation supports projects in various areas, including arts, civic benefit, education, and health services. Organizations classified as tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) are encouraged to apply for grants exceeding $10,000, which are reviewed biannually in May and November. A Letter of Inquiry is required for consideration.

Note: Letter of Inquiry required. If your LOI is approved, you will receive an email notification indicating that a complete grant application has been requested.
The Richard S. Shineman Foundation stands as a testament to the legacy of Dr. Richard S. Shineman, a distinguished professor of chemistry at SUNY Oswego, whose profound commitment to intellectual pursuits and community well-being shaped the foundation's inception. Established through Dr. Shineman's foresight and under the ongoing guidance of Barbara Palmer Shineman, the foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the communities it serves, with a particular focus on Oswego County.
Focus Areas
Arts and Culture: Music, music education, museums, historical societies, theaters
Civic Benefit: Community improvement development, philanthropy/volunteerism, capacity building, etc.
Economic/Workforce Development: Examples - job creation/job retention, job training and educational programs to grow skills and develop tools needed for business success.
Education: Early childhood development and education for children, adult learning programs, etc.
Environment: Beautification, environmental protection, restoration and saving of natural habitat
Health and Human Services: Counseling programs, alcohol & drug related programs, crisis/domestic violence, medical services, senior services, respite care, food related, homelessness and housing
Historic Preservation: Preservation and protection of artifacts of historical significance
Grant Categories
We offer three grant categories: Strategic Grants; Community Impact Grants; and Community Enrichment Grants.
For requests over $10,000
Strategic Grants are accepted twice yearly, with reviews conducted in May and November. Following an initial consultation with Foundation staff, if your proposal aligns with our priorities, you will receive an access code to submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI).

Eligibility

At this time, we will consider organizations located in -- or can demonstrate a direct benefit to -- Oswego County through specific projects or programs.
Grants are only made to organizations classified as tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or those considered exempt, such as governmental subdivisions.

Ineligibility

No grants or loans will be made to individuals.Grant applications for large requests for funding over $200,000 will not be considered until at least 50% of the total project budget has been raised by the applicant prior to applying.