Do you accept unsolicited applications? The Foundation only accepts applications at the invitation of a program officer. Initial grant inquiries should be directed here: Contact SFF.

Do you only fund organizations based in the North Lawndale community? The majority of our grantees are located in the North Lawndale community; however, we occasionally make grants to city or national organizations for projects that serve the North Lawndale community.

Do you provide general operating support or must we apply for specific project funds? We provide both general operating support and project support. You should discuss the type of funding you need with the program officer.

Do you make program-related investments? We generally fund projects, but will consider request for program-related investments, primarily for community development and social enterprise projects.

What are your application deadlines and how long does it take from the time I apply until the decision is made whether to fund it?

Because it is hard to predict the flow of grant applications for any given board meeting, we cannot guarantee that the application will be scheduled for review at the first board meeting that follows the deadline. Your program officer will be able to provide a detailed time line for the decision making process once the proposal is received and reviewed.