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How To Apply
CVF looks for innovative projects that promise sustainable, replicable results.
Approaching any problem from a new perspective produces a greater potential for innovation and success. At CVF, new ideas are encouraged and nurtured, but achieving a workable solution is always the ultimate goal.
To be considered for funding, proposals for projects and programs must meet three basic criteria:
- Innovation - Proposals must offer a new, perhaps even unusual, approach to address a defined need.
- Results - Applicants are required to demonstrate tangible, measurable results affecting the problem being addressed.
- Long-term solutions - Successfully implemented programs must be replicable and sustainable.
All grant applications submitted to CVF are reviewed, considered, and approved in connection with an established grant process. The Foundation awards grants, loans, and technical assistance to legally incorporated, IRS 501(c)(3) charitable organizations for projects, programs, and capacity building appropriate to its mission.
Funding Criteria
Learn more about the specific program standards and organizational characteristics CVF evaluates when choosing programs and projects to fund.
In making funding decisions, CVF considers a variety of factors concerning the proposed project and the applicant organization. The following list describes the funding priorities and evaluation criteria of the Foundation. While it is not necessary for any proposal to incorporate all of these characteristics, all proposals will be measured against them and will be considered only if there is a significant match.
Program Standards
Below are the six key factors CVF evaluates when considering programs for funding:
1. Innovation - A new, perhaps unusual, approach will be used to address a defined need.
2. Effectiveness - Tangible, measurable results will have a significant impact on the problem being addressed.
3. Potential for systematic change -
a. Long-term solutions will be effective, not just alleviation of symptoms.
b. Successfully implemented programs will be able to be replicated or expanded.
4. Human Interest -
a. Program consumers will be empowered to reach their full potential and encouraged to be self-reliant and responsible.
b. Direct service will be the primary focus of the program.
5. Evidence of sound management - The program will be implemented according to a business plan that:
a. outlines a clear plan of action for achieving program goals and objectives
b. contains a clearly organized, reasonably priced, thorough, 3-5 year budget
c. provides details of a well-planned, realistic funding strategy for continuation of the program.
6. Financial need -
a. Seed funds are required to develop additional sources of funding or attain self-sufficiency.
b. It is unlikely that the project will attract substantial funding from other/traditional sources.