How to Apply for Grants

The Dyer-Ives’ application process is uncomplicated, offering consulting services for prospective community applicants and a quick turn-around on grant requests. The average small grant award ranges between $2,000 and $5,000.

The Foundation does not operate on a grantmaking cycle, preferring to accommodate applicants by reviewing proposals as they are received. Grant decisions are announced the day following deliberation by the Contributions Committee.

Grant applicants are asked to:

Contact Linda Patterson, Executive Director, at (616) 454-4502 to discuss the request.

Prepare a specific proposal, after it is agreed that your request can be considered, including where appropriate:

1. A one or two page description of your organization and purpose,
2. The goals of your project and how they will be measured,
3. What other organizations you will be working with to accomplish your objectives,
4. How you plan to continue the project in the future, and
5. The specific amount of funds you are requesting.

Append the following documents to your proposal:

1. An operating budget of the project for which you are requesting funds.
2. A copy of your organization’s IRS 501(c)(3) form.
3. A listing of your organization’s Board of Directors.

Send one copy of the proposal to the Foundation’s office.

Meet with the Board of Trustees to discuss the proposal at a conveniently arranged time and place.

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