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​Grant

Guidelines

The Paul and Helen Ellis Trust invests in organizations located in Erie County NY, with a special interest in those in the Black Rock/Riverside area, that provide services to families (children, youth, adults) and/or beautify public green space. Eligible organizations are those that have tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Trust will only consider grant requests that align with its mission and geographic areas. Please note that organizations may submit one letter of inquiry per year.
  • What are the Trust’s interest areas?
    The Trust invests in organizations that provide services to families (children, youth, adults) and or/beautify public green space.
  • Where does the Trust make grants?
    Erie County in New York State, with a special interest in those located in the Black Rock/Riverside area.
  • What is the average grant size?
    While there are no minimum or maximum size requirements, most Trust grants fall between $10,000 - $25,000.
  • How much does the Trust award in grants on an annual basis?
    Approximately $280,000.
  • Does the Trust make multi-year years?
    The Trust will consider multi-year grant requests.
  • Does the Trust make general operating grants?
    The Trust will consider grant requests for general operating funds.
  • Does the Trust fund capital campaign or equipment requests?
    The Trust will consider grant requests for capital campaign and equipment expense.
  • Will the Trust fund matching grant requests?
    The Trust will consider requests for matching grant funds.
  • Does the Trust fund organizations, programs and/or projects using a pass-through entity or organization?"
    No.
  • What is the due date for letters of inquiry?
    The Trust accepts letters of inquiry through May 31. Applicants will be notified by June 30 if a full application is desired.
  • May I submit more than one letter of inquiry?
    No, only one letter of inquiry per organization per funding cycle is accepted.
  • May I submit a letter of inquiry if my organization currently has an active grant?
    No, an organization may only have one active grant at any given time.
  • What is the due date for grant applications?
    The due date for grant applications is August 31.
  • Are grant reports required?
    Yes, grant reports are required. A report template will be provided.
  • May I invite Trustees for a site visit prior to submitting a grant request?
    No, due to the volume of grant requests received, Trustees are not available for site visits to organizations that are considering submitting a request.
  • May I present my idea to Trustees prior to submitting a grant request?
    No, only projects submitted through the letter of inquiry process are considered for funding.
  • Who do I contact if I have a question?
    Please submit your question to info@ellistrustwny.org You will receive a reply within five working days.
Can we help you?

Tap or click the button at right to contact The Paul and Helen Ellis Trust.

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