Step 1: Learn about what we fund

The Heinz Endowments awards grants in these areas: Creativity, Sustainability and Learning. Prospective applicants should carefully review the goals of each program strategy before applying and can find a list of previously awarded grants here on our Grants Awarded page.

 

Step 2: Determine your eligibility

If your proposal aligns with our grantmaking programs described above, the next step is to determine your eligibility.

We concentrate our efforts and resources in southwestern Pennsylvania (SWPA). Given our primarily regional focus, the foundation is generally unable to consider applications for funding outside the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, unless the proposal is expressly for the benefit of residents of the SWPA region or state.

The foundation funds organizations classified as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and as public charities under Section 509(a) of that code. Organizations and government entities that are federally tax-exempt may also apply. Individuals and for-profit organizations are not eligible for funding.

Please verify your organization’s status in GuideStar/Candid to make sure that it is properly listed.

 

Step 3: Submit a letter of inquiry (LOI)

Submit a short LOI to enter the process for funding consideration, which should take about 10 minutes to complete. We aim to respond to all inquiries within 45 days. LOIs are accepted on a rolling basis. Click here for information on how to apply.

If approved, the organization will be invited to complete a general application that builds from the LOI. If an organization is working directly with Endowments staff and has been instructed to complete a general application, the LOI may be skipped.

 

Step 4: Submit a general application

Only invited applicants should complete a general application. This application requires a descriptive proposal narrative, information about the organization’s annual or project budget, audited financial statements, and a signed Patriot Act compliance statement.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. You will receive an email confirmation acknowledging receipt of your application.

Click here for information on how to apply.

 

Step 5: Proposals are considered, and funding decisions are made

Our program team will carefully review each application. If the proposal could be a good fit, program officers will perform additional due diligence, which might involve site visits, in-person or virtual meetings.

Supported proposals will then move through the approval and funding process, which on average takes between 30 and 90 days. Our team will communicate along the way to ensure you understand the timeline.

If approved, grantees will receive a notification packet including a grant agreement, guidelines for follow-up reporting and press release information. Payment will be made shortly after the signed grant agreement is returned.