FAQ

CFP does not have annual fixed deadlines for proposals. The Letter of Intent (LOI) and proposal deadlines are listed to the right.

 

Please note, Education submissions will be reviewed only in the Spring; and Arts & Culture as well as Civic Affairs submissions will be reviewed only in the Fall. All environment and international health grantmaking is by invitation only.

 

All organizations must submit an LOI by 5:00 PM by the respective deadline. Letters received after this time will result in deferral to the next funding cycle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grant Cycle Timeline

 









ADMINISTRATIVE/GEOGRAPHY

If an organization applied for 501(c)(3) status but has yet to receive it, can the organization apply for a grant while waiting?
No.

Does Crown Family Philanthropies (CFP) have a specific geographic focus?
CFP generally funds organizations within the Greater Chicago area (primarily Cook County). CFP also funds Jewish causes locally, programs that have national impact and programs in Israel. Note that applications from Israel are accepted by invitation only.

What is meant by “CFP will not accept unsolicited proposals from Israel?” Proposals from any organization outside of the United States should not be submitted and will be declined unless they were invited by CFP.

TYPES OF SUPPORT

Does CFP fund multi-year grants?
Yes, multi-year support is available. Please consult with program staff to determine if your request is eligible for multi-year support.

Will CFP fund general operating expenses if that is the organization’s greatest need?
Yes, this determination is based on the overall value and effectiveness of the organization.

What types of programs or projects does CFP NOT fund?
We do not fund:

  • Research or advocacy projects (Exceptions are made for advocacy projects on environmental issues)
  • Film, video, exhibitions or conferences
  • Projects by individuals or salaries
  • Projects that rely on CFP for majority funding
  • Associations or coalitions
  • Programs primarily dependent on government support (Exceptions are made for charter schools and some health and human services programs.)

Application

How long and detailed is a standard LOI?
The LOI should be no more than two pages and describe the nature of the organization’s work, the size of its budget, the proposed project (and budget) and the amount requested. The LOI should include a contact email and program area for which you are applying.

How much money should an organization request?
Organizations should first consider how much money the program requires and then consider what portion is appropriate for CFP to fund. Please note that CFP staff will ask you about other confirmed and pending sources of support during the review process.

How do organizations know if their application was received?
CFP sends electronic receipts for all emailed LOIs.

What happens if an application arrives past the deadline?
We will consider it for the next cycle.

What happens after an organization submits an LOI?
Once we determine that the LOI submission is complete (i.e. includes all of the required information and materials), we will review the request. If the organization’s work coincides with CFP goals, we may request additional information and/or a full proposal.

What are expectations for reporting?
Grantees are required to submit final progress reports as referenced in your award letter.

What kind of evaluations does CFP conduct?
Evaluations may include a visit from CFP staff or consultants, discussions with grantees, interviews with grantee constituents, reviews of programmatic and financial records maintained by grantees and/or similar investigative activities.

Whom may I contact about my proposal?
Become familiar with the program areas, guidelines, and process through this website before making an inquiry. Please consult with program staff for specific questions. An LOI is the first point of contact.

If not approved, how soon can an organization reapply?
CFP accepts one request within a 12-month period from a single organization.

Can an organization apply for renewed funding?
Yes. The process repeats for renewed funding.