GRANT PROGRAM GUIDELINES 2019

What We Fund

We fund projects only. We do not fund general operating costs.

Since 2016, we have accepted proposals for a wide range of activities, including social services, education, health and well-being, recreation, environmental, civic/community, and the arts/culture/humanities.

What We Do Not Fund

We do not fund projects that focus on endowments, economic development/employment, political candidates, legislation, religion, legal and civil rights, animal welfare or capital campaigns (buildings, renovations).

Duration of Project

In 2018, we funded only one-year projects. Fund recipients could re-apply in 2019. Currently we will consider two and three year projects.

Whom We Fund

We fund grass-roots organizations (unincorporated but with a Board of Directors), incorporated nonprofit organizations. 501(c)(3) organizations, certain other 501(c) tax-exempt organizations such as service clubs), public schools, private schools, and government agencies.

Churches may apply but only for non-religious projects.

Whom We Do Not Fund

Individuals and for-profit businesses/corporations unless they have a tax-exempt affiliate

How Much Do We Fund

In 2018 total funding was $15,000 (3 grants at $5000 each), but this amount will grow annually as our endowment increases.

Where We Fund

We fund projects that exist in and/or affect the Red River Valley, NM area, specifically within zip code 87558.

How We Fund

All grant request proposals must be submitted either online on our web site or U.S. mail and received by 11:59 p.m. June 15, 2019.  Applicants submitting application online must attach documents in Word, PDF, and Excel form. 

When We Fund

We fund once annually. The schedule for 2019 is as follows:

Proposals accepted from March 1– June 15, 2019, until 11:59 p.m.
Review of proposals: March 15 – June 30
Letters of award: July 1
Public announcement and checks disbursed at Buckaroo Ball, first week of August.

What Is the Criteria for Funding?

The criteria for funding includes:

Project conformity to Red River Valley Foundation mission statement
Number of people who will benefit from project
Ability of applicant to execute the project successfully
Soundness of project budget
Quality and completeness of online proposal

Will There Be Presentations or On-Site Visits?

In a few cases, we will ask applicants to make presentations to the Board of Directors. We may also ask to visit the site of the project. Such presentations or visits are not a guarantee of funding.