Frequently Asked Questions

The Bolger Foundation focuses on the areas of conservation and preservation; those underprivileged and underserved; health, including mental health; community; and education.

The Bolger Foundation prefers to fund capital projects, such as the construction or purchase of new facilities; building renovations and improvements; purchase (or lease) of equipment and furnishings; and/or other one-time capital needs. Budget must be under $5 million.

The Bolger Foundation only awards grants to USA-based nonprofit organizations that have a valid tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The organization also must be classified as a public charity, not as a “private foundation”, under Section 509(a)(1) or (2) of the code. The Bolger Foundation does not give grants for endowments or fundraising appeals, nor to individuals or overseas organizations.

Grants awarded by The Bolger Foundation range from $10,000-$250,000. At the Foundation’s discretion, funds may be given in the form of a challenge grant.

The Bolger Foundation accepts grant applications during two periods per year: November 1-February 1 for Spring grant requests and June 1-September 1 for Fall grant requests. The grant portal will close at 5pm ET on those closing dates.

Funding decisions will be made within six weeks of the conclusion of each application period and grantees promptly notified by email or mail.

Documents to be uploaded during the online application process include a project budget with line items (must be under $5 million); an audited financial report for the most recent fiscal year or the organization’s most recent Form 990; the organization’s most recent 501(c)(3) and 509(a) IRS ruling letter(s); and the organization’s annual report, if available. Please see our Grant Request Guidelines for more details.

To apply for a grant from The Bolger Foundation, please complete our online grant application. During this process, you will be asked to supply information about your organization’s purpose or mission as well as your proposed project; in addition, you will be asked to upload certain documents, as noted above (in our FAQs) and in our Grant Request Guidelines.