Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Foundation limited to funding in certain geographic locations?
A: Our funding scope is limited to organizations whose work benefits children and youth living in the states of California and Washington.

Q: Does Stuart Foundation require that a letter of inquiry (LOI) be submitted before a formal proposal?
A: Yes, an LOI must be submitted first. Foundation staff may request a proposal after reviewing an organization's LOI. Please do not submit a full proposal unless requested by Foundation staff.

Q: Does the Foundation have deadlines for Letters of Inquiry?
A: No. The Foundation accepts LOIs on a rolling basis.

Q: To which of your three programs should I apply?
A: We ask that potential grantees review each program area's objectives (Child Welfare, Education and Youth & Communities) and list of previous grants to determine whether their program fits within all or most of the stated guidelines for a particular program area. Our grant application guidelines are available on our website: (URL will be updated)

Q: My program fits into the objectives of more than one of the Foundation's program areas. To which program should I apply?
A: Program staff work collaboratively to determine whether potential programs are a good fit with program objectives in more than one program area. You should apply to the program area that you think is the strongest fit to your program, and point out the ways in which your program also addresses objectives in other program areas.

Q: When are applicants notified of funding decisions?
A: Program staff will contact your organization within approximately 60 days after we receive your LOI to inform you of whether you have been selected to submit a full proposal.

Q: How long does the entire grantmaking process take?
A: The grantmaking process will generally range from seven to twelve months from receipt of LOI to notification of funding decision.

Q: Why does it take so long to receive our funding decision?
A: Typically, we receive hundreds of proposals per year. From initial LOI to Board decision, it takes seven to twelve months to conduct the necessary due diligence, site visits, meetings, and assessment necessary to make funding recommendations to our Board. Program Officers work closely with each potential grantee to set realistic and measurable goals, craft a detailed budget, and when appropriate, explore partnership opportunities with others in the field.

Q: When are grants approved?
A: The Stuart Foundation Board meets three times a year. In 2005 the Board met in March, August and November.

Q: We are not classified as a 501(c)(3) Public Charity. Can we still apply to the Stuart Foundation?
A: Certain organizations that qualify as tax-exempt within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Service code are eligible to apply to the Foundation. Examples of these organizations/entities are school districts, universities, and government agencies such as city or county agencies.

Q: We do not have a 501(c)(3) classification. Can we apply to the Stuart Foundation through a fiscal sponsor?
A: Yes, the Foundation will accept proposals from fiscal sponsors. The LOI should be submitted by the fiscal sponsor. If the LOI is accepted, the proposal should also be submitted by the fiscal sponsor. The proposal should include: a copy of the fiscal sponsor's tax-exempt status letter; a description of the fiscal sponsor's relationship with the sponsored organization; and a statement from the fiscal sponsor indicating its willingness to serve the sponsored organization and its plan for overseeing the designated project.

Q: How many copies of the LOI and proposal should we send?
A: We need only one copy of the LOI. If you are invited to submit a proposal, only one copy is needed. We prefer that you do not use binders or thick binding materials.

Q: Our LOI was declined, can we reapply?
A: Yes, but please carefully consider the reasons given for the decline and any feedback from Foundation staff before submitting another LOI. Generally, it is not recommended that you reapply for at least one year.

Q: What is an appropriate request amount? Is there a maximum grant size?
A: The amount that you request from the Foundation should be proportionate to your organizational budget, project budget, and expected income from other sources. While we have no restrictions regarding the maximum size grant you may request, program staff will take into consideration your track record in implementing projects of a similar size and scope.

Q: What is the Foundation's policy regarding indirect costs?
A: It is the Stuart Foundation's policy not to pay indirect costs to organizations, universities, and public agencies. If you have any questions regarding indirect costs, please contact Program staff or the Director of Grants Management.