Frequently Asked Questions
About SFACF’s Unrestricted Grantmaking Program
Who’s eligible for SFACF grants?
Typically, SFACF makes awards to nonprofit organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status undertaking projects that benefit the people of the Sioux Falls area.
With the exception of scholarship awards, SFACF does not make grants to individuals.
Please contact SFACF's Program Officer for help determining whether your project is eligible for funding.
What levels of grant support does SFACF provide?
SFACF has two grant programs, Spot Grants that fund projects up to $1,000 and Community Fund Grants that fund projects over $1,000. The majority of Community Fund Grants are made in the range of $5,000 - $10,000.
How do I apply for a Spot Grant?
Proposals for $1,000 or less come from a special spot grant fund and do not require a standard application form. These awards can be requested by submitting:
- a typed summary of the program in two pages or fewer
- signatures of the organization's executive director and board chair
- board of directors roster
- IRS tax determination letter
- project budget
Spot Grant proposals may be submitted at any time. In most cases, SFACF will review and respond to Spot Grant proposals within two weeks of receipt.
How do I apply for a Community Fund Grant?
Proposals for $1,000 or more are reviewed by SFACF's Grants Committee and must be submitted using a standard application form available from the SFACF office or download here.
Community Fund Grant proposals are accepted anytime and will be reviewed by the Grants Committee at their next scheduled meeting, usually within six to eight weeks of receiving the application. (Go to Publications for Grant Application Due Dates.)
What makes a grant proposal stand out?
Your application will get high marks if it
- explains how your project meets an important community need or opportunity.
- is for a project that does not duplicate services already available in the area.
- is for a project that your organization is capable of undertaking and being successful.
- had a budget that shows grant money will be used wisely, i.e., the cost of the project can be justified by the expected benefits.
- makes sense, i.e., the activities to be undertaken are logical steps to achieving the project goals.
- when applicable, explains how the project will be funded in the future.
If I get a grant, what kind of evaluation will I need to submit?
After you sign and return a grant agreement, SFACF will send you a check and an evaluation form.
Evaluations from organizations receiving “spot” awards of $1000 or less are brief reports describing project activities and how grant funds were used.
For grants of $1000 or more, SFACF requires a more in-depth evaluation. This includes an analysis of the project’s goals compared to actual outcomes, a description of challenges you may have encountered, and a detailed budget report.
Does SFACF make multi-year grants?
SFACF rarely grants a multi-year award. Typically, SFACF grants are for one year. If you have sustainability questions, please contact SFACF's program officer.
Who do I call for more information?
SFACF Program Officer Patrick Gale handles all grant inquiries and can be reached by phone at (605) 336-7055, extension 20. SFACF’s office is located at 300 N. Phillips Avenue, Suite 102, Sioux Falls, SD 57104-6035.