Guidelines & Information for Applications

Grant Applications Deadline Dates:

• March 1 for programs/projects expected to commence in or around the following September
• September 1 for programs/projects expected to commence in or around the following March

The approximate turnaround time to receive notification if an application has been successful is between 4 to 6 months. Please ensure that your application works within this timeframe.

Complete grant applications must be received at our office no later than 4:00 p.m. on the deadline date (if deadline falls on a statutory holiday or weekend, applications must be received no later than 4:00 p.m. on the next business day).

Please note that available income does not permit assistance to all applicants

1. Westminster College Foundation is intended to support charitable organizations concerned with education, health or spiritual care, with a particular focus on youth or seniors programs/projects. However, other programs/projects may be considered on an individual basis. All applications must provide clear and concrete objectives for the program/project for which they are requesting funding.
2. The evaluation criteria of grants include:
   • Programs/projects favoured will show creative development of new initiatives or new programs/projects that make a difference, and are not considered just status quo. The budget submission supporting the request must specifically relate to the new initiative.
   • Programs/projects that have a definite purpose, that cover a specific period of time and will continue to have an impact after the grant is expended. Regular follow-up reports will be required, indicating actual outcomes.
   • Preference will be given to programs/projects that have secured at least 50% of the program/project funding from other sources.
3. Grants are not made to support operating expenses (including administrative salaries) of organizations. However, salaries directly related to the program/project will be considered.
4. Any type of an administration fee that is tied to a request will not be funded through the grant.
5. Grants will be made only to registered charitable organizations. Organizations requesting funds must demonstrate that they have a strong committed Board, fiscal responsibility and management qualifications.
6. Pilot projects must include provision for evaluation, and a plan for financial viability beyond the pilot stage.
7. Capital projects will only be considered if there is a demonstrated need.
8. Grants are not made to establish or add to endowment funds.
9. Generally, the maximum grant available is $15,000.
10. Any portion of awarded grant funds not used or required to complete the program/project or meet the approved objectives, will be returned to Westminster College Foundation.