The Community Foundation awards grants of varying sizes based upon community need, expected impact and organizational capacity. Three different grant programs – Micro Grants, Youth Philanthropy, and Competitive Grants – provide grants ranging from a few hundred dollars to $20,000 or more. Eligibility and application guidelines vary by program.
Micro Grants: The Foundation recognizes that small amounts of money provided at the right time can have a large impact. Micro Grants are intended to fund unique, unexpected opportunities or urgent, unanticipated problems. Projects that require a quick response to effectively address a community problem or situation are given priority.
Youth Philanthropy: The Youth Philanthropy Program provides students at our local high schools a hands-on learning opportunity in philanthropy. Participating students review grant proposals, meet with applicants, discuss effective strategies for community impact and award grants to local nonprofits. The Community Foundation encourages applications from nonprofits of all sizes across all fields of interest. A broad cross-section of strong applications enriches the learning experience for participants and increases their awareness of the nonprofits who serve our community and the importance of the work they do.
Competitive Grants: Thanks to the generosity of Old Bill's Co-Challengers and individual donors, the Foundation strategically grants over $500,000 each year to address Jackson's most pressing issues and ensure its vibrancy. The Community Foundation supports a wide variety of proposals, reflecting the fabric and diverse passions of our community. Ideas for addressing issues in the arts, environment, social services, education, recreation, animals and civic arenas are all welcome. Applicants may request funding to support new or existing programs, capital projects, equipment purchases, general operations and capacity building.
The Community Foundation of Jackson Hole does not provide support for the following: religious activities, debt retirement, political activities, or organizations working primarily to influence legislation. Grant applications that have been previously submitted to the Competitive Grants Program are not eligible for funding. The Community Foundation does not fund projects retroactively.