General Grantmaking Guidelines


The general purpose of the Foundations grant making is to improve the quality of life through creative and innovative programs. Priority in all grant programs will be given to those applications for programs and project that reflect the following characteristics, which should be clearly stated in the grant application:

  1. The potential impact of the request and number of people who will benefit.
  2. An imaginative and experimental approach to problem-solving.
  3. The extent of local volunteer involvement and support for the project.
  4. The commitment and composition of the requesting organization’s directors and staff.
  5. The degree to which the applicant works with or complements other community organizations to eliminate duplication of services.
  6. The organization’s fiscal responsibility and management policies.
  7. The possibility of using the grant as seed money for matching funds from other sources.
  8. The ability of the organization to obtain additional funding (if necessary) to implement the project.
  9. The ability of the organization to provide ongoing funding after the term of the grant.
  10. Develops new solutions to community challenges/needs.
  11. Increases the effectiveness of the nonprofit’s activities.
  12. Encourages civic development and volunteerism.

Normally, grants will not be made for:

  1. General operating support.
  2. Endowments.
  3. Fundraising campaigns.
  4. Sectarian or political programs.
  5. Grants to individuals (except as allowed by specific laws or funds so designated such as scholarship funds or student loan funds).
  6. Conferences

Please Note:  For additional guidelines, including areas of geographic focus, please read the individual grantmaking program descriptions found on this website.

CADILLAC AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

As a grantmaker, the Cadillac Area Community Foundation seeks to promote respect for all people. Through its grantmaking programs, the Foundation will support organizations that do not intend to deny services, employment, or volunteer involvement on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, veteran status, ancestry, or any other legally protected characteristics. It is not the intent of this policy to deny support for programs that serve specifically defined populations.

PLEASE NOTE: Electronic grant application submission is required for ALL GRANT PROGRAMS as well as a signed, original copy which is to be mailed.  Specific instructions are included in the applications.

The National Standards Seal by our name indicates official confirmation from the Council on Foundations that we have met the most rigorous standards in philanthropy. It affirms our commitment to financial security, transparency and accountability. It says our grantmaking includes an open, competitive process designed to address the changing needs of our community. The National Standards Seal also confirms our history of honoring donors’ wishes.