We support organizations that contribute to the quality of life in Howard County in the areas of human services, arts & culture, education, environment and community affairs. The proposals that interest us most demonstrate practical solutions and efforts at prevention, collaboration and volunteer support.
To be considered for a grant, your organization must be determined as charitable under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or be an entity that meets IRS charitable guidelines.
Community Grants Program
Community Grants are requests up to $15,000 and have a once-a-year deadline in October. You may apply for either operational or project support. Applications are due the first Friday in October by 5pm.
Mini-Grants Program
Mini-Grants are quarterly requests in the amount of $500 - $2,000 for pilot projects, organizational improvement and equipment purchases. A total pool of $20,000 has been set aside for Mini-Grants in 2012—with a limit of $5,000 distributed per quarter. Applications are due at the end of each quarter.
Quarters are defined as:
- January 1-March 30
- April 1-June 30
- July 1-September 30
- October 1- December 31
Emergency/Urgent Needs Grants are for organizations in need of immediate assistance for unexpected or emergency needs. Emergency Grants are typically between $250 - $2,000 and can be applied for anytime throughout the year. Applicants must consult with the Foundation’s President & CEO prior to applying. Notification of awards is generally made within 2 weeks of the request.
Agency Endowments: Our Agency Endowment Program makes it possible for small nonprofits to have all the benefits of an endowment without committing precious resources to its management and administration. We do all the record keeping, accounting and investment management. In some cases, we'll even contribute some matching funds. When your endowment has a value of at least $30,000, you can withdraw up to five percent of its value.
Scholarships: Columbia Foundation scholarship applications are available in the guidance offices of most county high schools. The donor of the scholarship funds, a committee of board members, and other members of the community review each student's application.
Click here to find out about our upcoming grant information sessions.