Eligibility

Applicants must be an IRS 501(c)3 public charity, school, government entity or religious organization. Requested support must be for organizations or activities that take place in one or more counties of the Black Hills identified on the application. Only organizations that are personally invited by the current year’s Youth Philanthropy cadre are eligible to apply for this opportunity.

What type of Projects are Funded?

While the Youth Philanthropy cadre selects a new area of focus each year, overall, this grant opportunity supports a wide variety of proposals. Requests can address issues in: Arts and culture, environment and conservation, education, youth and children, social services, and community and economic development. You can request support for ongoing or new programs/projects. Requests can support projects, programs, capacity building, operational expenses, and SMALL capital improvements. Please do not submit any request of support for capital campaigns.

What types of Projects are NOT Funded?

Grants will not be awarded to support religious activity, political activity, fundraisers or benefits, debt retirement, or organizations working to primarily influence legislation. Supported activities may NOT discriminate against any individual or group based on race, gender, gender expression, age, disability, religion, ethnic or national origin, or otherwise legally protected groups. BHACF will not serve as an applicant for sponsored programs. Funding for multi-year projects or support will not be considered. Please do not submit any requests of support for capital campaigns.

Grant Review Criteria

In reviewing applications, the Youth Philanthropy Grantmaking Committee will consider the following criteria.

• The ability of the organization or project to improve the quality of life and meet identified needs in the Black Hills region.
• How the organization or project responds to a clear and compelling community need with a well-developed program or project that responds to the need.
• How the organization or project maximizes community resources through cooperation, collaboration and shared learning.
• The ability of the organization to sustain the stated effort beyond the grant period.