Grant Application

Our Application Process

We use a two-step application process to ensure alignment while respecting applicants’ time.

Step 1: Letter of Interest (LOI)
A short, initial application that helps us understand your organization, the community you serve, and how your work aligns with our funding priorities.

Step 2: Full Proposal (By Invitation Only)
Organizations selected through the LOI process are invited to submit a full proposal with additional program and budget details.

Step 3: Review & Evaluation

Proposals are reviewed using criteria such as:

Alignment with funding priorities
Community connection and leadership
Clarity of goals and outcomes
Equity-centered and ethical practices

Each request is reviewed individually, and decisions are made thoughtfully.

Step 4: Award & Agreement

Selected organizations are notified and provided with a grant agreement outlining funding amount, timeline, and reporting expectations.

Step 5: Reporting

At the end of the grant period, funded partners submit a brief final report including outcomes, reflections, and a simple financial summary.

Apply for a Grant

Letter of Interest (LOI)

The Letter of Interest is the first step in the application process and serves as a brief introduction to your organization and proposed work.

The LOI includes:

◦ Basic organizational information
◦ Alignment with one or more funding pillars
◦ A brief description of the community need and proposed project
◦ Estimated funding request

Only organizations selected through the LOI review will be invited to submit a full proposal.

Full Grant Proposal

Organizations invited to submit a full proposal will be asked to provide additional detail, including:

◦ Project description and timeline
◦ Community need and intended outcomes
◦ Budget and funding request
◦ Organizational leadership and capacity
◦ Evaluation and reporting approach

Full proposals are reviewed through an internal process focused on alignment, feasibility, and impact.

Grant Amounts & Cycles

Grant amounts vary based on organizational need, project scope, and alignment with funding priorities. Funding may support program implementation, capacity-building, or innovative initiatives aligned with our mission.

Micro-Grants: $2,500 – $10,000
Program Grants: $10,000 – $50,000

The Lasater Schirmer Family Trust typically offers two grant cycles per year.

Spring Cycle: LOIs due in March
Fall Cycle: LOIs due in September

Micro-grants may be considered year-round, subject to availability.

Specific deadlines and updates will be posted on this page.