Simple Solution Grants
Simple Solution grants are a quick and easy way for charities to get funding for basic needs, helping them overcome small challenges that might get in the way of their bigger goals. They're mostly supported by the Foundation’s fundholders and earmarked gifts. A new offering in 2023, these grants make it easier for charities with straightforward requests to apply and get a fast response.
Applications are accepted year-round and evaluated quarterly on March 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15. Determinations are announced 30-45 days later.
What is a “simple” request?
A simple request doesn't require a lot of details and can be easily explained in a few paragraphs. Simple requests are usually for things that are easy to understand and don't involve complex plans or extensive documentation.
Generally, simple requests are under $1,500 and for a straightforward purpose.
Examples:
A youth sports team needs money to buy more uniforms.
A group of volunteers needs funds to rent tools for a community project.
A school needs help paying for a speaker for a mental health day.
An after-school program wants to buy an iPad for online learning.
Installing an AED machine at a sports or recreational area.
A teacher needs help providing lunch for students on a field trip.
A Booster Club needs funds to buy a new hot dog roller for fundraisers.
Charities looking for support for events like 5K runs, golf outings, or auctions.
Depending on the project's size and the details provided, the Foundation may ask for additional information or invite the nonprofit organization to fill out the Community Impact Grant application.
Our Criteria and Considerations
Intended Impact
What is the project’s overall goal? How will the project build on community strengths or respond creatively to a problem? Will the project have influence or repercussions elsewhere in the community? Does the project address underlying causes or symptoms of issues? Will the efforts continue to grow in their effectiveness?
Influence
Who, how many, and for how long will people be impacted? If successful, could it be duplicated elsewhere, or scaled to serve more people? Does the project expand access and opportunities for disadvantaged or underserved communities? Will the project develop a sense of this community as a special place?
Collaboration and Community Support
Has support been stimulated from other funding sources? Will the project increase cooperation and coordination among program providers without duplicating services? Is a cross-section of people involved in the project planning?
Expertise and Track Record
Does the organization’s stated capacity and expertise in leveraging funding match its track record? Does the plan utilize a sound governance and financial model? Will the project make the organization more self-sufficient or efficient?
Eligibility
Marietta Community Foundation will accept grant requests from organizations designated as tax-exempt according to §501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service code. Other organizations may be eligible to apply. Contact the Foundation for details.
Terms
Generally, Simple Solution grant applications should be for requests under $1,500, although there is no set minimum or maximum grant amount.
Marietta Community Foundation’s Board and staff will consider whether the amount requested is commensurate with proposal and appropriate for the Foundation’s annual grantmaking target and charitable purposes.
Nonprofits located outside of Washington County, Ohio may apply for funding. However, the project should specifically impact residents of Washington County.
Funding will not be awarded for utilities/overhead budget line items for Competitive and Board-Discretionary grants.
Multiple-year commitments will not be awarded through the Simple Solution Grants program, and are only awarded under very limited circumstances through the Community Impact Grants program. It is incumbent upon the grant seeker to demonstrate the necessity or benefit of multiple-year funding in the grant proposal.
There is no limit as to the number of proposals a single entity may submit.
Grantee must sign agreement before award is disbursed.
Apply for a Simple Solution Grant
Processing time: 30-45 days
Applications are accepted year-round and evaluated on March 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15.