Grant Application Process

Eligibility

Organizations submitting a grant application to ACF must be:

Serving youth under age 18 in the Coachella Valley of Riverside County, California
Nonprofit with official 501(c)(3) or other tax exempt status

Maximum project funding $80,000
ACF encourages just one application per organization
For large organizations (such as schools) separate departments may apply
Project funding is all or none, so specific and conservative budgets are essential!
We recommend requests over $25,000 only for programs we already know and trust
Funding cycle is from July 1 through June 30 each year
Disbursement of funds July 1 (or closest weekday) between 8-10 am at ACF office
ACF offers consultation to grant applicants August through December each year

Keep it simple. Please be clear and concise in your writing. Avoid complex language and filling all the space. One line from your heart is far better than a paragraph of AI verbiage.
Ask only for needs of specific project. We look for budgets that provide clear descriptions of what ACF funds will be used for. Any salaries or wages must be clearly designated rather than concealed in vague terms.
Be creative. We love innovative projects that enhance the lives of children. The priority of ACF is direct impact on young people by promoting health, developing skills, cultivating creativity, and expanding horizons.
Embrace diversity. We serve all children.
Consider the future. ACF funds programs for one year at a time. We are more likely to support projects that will build on what we contribute.
Follow directions carefully. Make sure to read all instructions as you complete each section of your grant application.
Start early. Please allow yourself time to work through any potential challenges. We review applications as they arrive and appreciate receiving submissions as soon as possible. Technical or other assistance will be available only until April 23.

ACF will conduct site visits to observe, evaluate, consult, and report on funded projects.