The majority of our District requests are for program development. Funding is a “boost” to help seed a project that has potential for significant impact. CH-UH cannot fund all the good ideas that come forward. Foundations may fund a promising idea that is carefully evaluated for impact. If the project achieves the desired results, or shows promise in some other way, it is hoped that the District will determine a means to continue the funding after the initial foundation funding period (typically between one and three years).

The Development Office does not undertake proposals for field trips or artist-in-residency requests unless they are part of a larger program idea.

Program development support can be requested for planning funds, to pilot an idea, or for project implementation. Grants are also provided for a number of other types of support, such as capital projects, scholarships, seed money and operating needs. For a list and definitions of the types of support, see the Foundation Center’s Grants Classification listing.

As you review information on funders, take care to note what they prefer to fund, whom they fund and their average donation. Some foundations will not fund government entities (knocking out the public schools) while others will not fund outside specific geographic areas. We are a non-profit 509(a), commensurate with the 501©3 designation required.