Applying for a grant from the Frances Hollis Brain Foundation is a two-step process.

Step 1: Letter of Inquiry

All grant seekers should contact either Diane Bryant (for applicants from Kentucky and Georgia) or  John Watson (for applicants from Maine) with a concise letter of inquiry (email or telephone calls are also acceptable) to determine whether the proposal aligns with the Foundation’s funding policies and interests.  This inquiry will allow us to determine whether or not your project meets our guidelines, and whether or not your time would be well spent pursuing a grant from us. Our funding policies are meant to assist you  with this process. If your proposed project aligns with the Foundation’s grant-making interests and priorities, you will be encouraged to submit a full application.

Step 2: Application

Only those grant seekers who receive a positive response to their initial inquiry should proceed to Step 2: submitting an application.

For applicants from Kentucky and Georgia

The type of documentation needed for adequate consideration of a project may vary; a full proposal will generally include the following information.  Exceptions to this will be discussed during Step 1 of the application process, prior to submission of a full application. 

Information about the applicant organization

· a copy of the organization’s 501 (c) (3) certification

· name of organization, address, phone number and contact person

· brief history and statement of purpose

· overview of programs, services and people served

· description of facilities and staff

· list of the Board of Directors

· current operating budget and funding sources

· recent financial accounts, if available

Information about the project

·  why the project is needed

·  overview of project

·  project budget

·  summary of funding commitments received to date

·  other potential sources of financial support (current and future)

·  amount of funds requested from the Foundation

·  reference letters demonstrating community support

For applicants from Maine

A full proposal includes the “Request Form” and the “Application A” of the Maine Philanthropy Center’s (MPC) “Common Grant Application.” You can find it at:

http://www.mainephilanthropy.org/page10645.cfm

In addition, if you believe it would be helpful to our understanding of your project and the work you are doing, please do submit annual reports, newspaper clippings, and letters of support.

The “Instructions” section of the MPC web site is a useful tool. You will find there a list of basic instructions, a section on developing a successful proposal, and an explanation of the MPC Common Grant Application components.

Submission Deadlines - All Applications

For grants in the summer cycle, applications must be received by May 1, and applicants will be notified of the Foundation’s decision by August 31.

For grants in the fall cycle, applications must be received by October 1, and applicants will be notified of the Foundation’s decision by December 31.