Grant Review Considerations

General Considerations

When evaluating a grant application, staff and directors consider a variety of questions that may include:

  • How well does the proposal align with the Foundation's mission, guiding principles, and grant making priorities? Does it align with more than one area of interest or focal area?
  • What are the strengths and challenges related to the proposal? (e.g. Does it address a real need? What is the expected impact? Will it effect systemic change? How will outcomes be evaluated? Who will benefit? Is it well-planned and doable? How will it be sustained? Does it have broad community support and engagement?)
  • What are the strengths and challenges related to the organization? (e.g. Does it have sufficient expertise? What is the staff and board capacity? Are the finances sound? Does it receive broad support from the community? Does the organization employ tried and true practices to meet real needs? Does the organization display creativity in addressing challenges?)
  • What are the strengths and challenges related to the proposal budget? (e.g. Is it realistic? What are the other committed and expected sources of revenue? Is it cost-effective?)

Considerations specific to the area of interest will also be taken into account and are noted below. The Foundation recognizes that not all considerations will be appropriate for every proposal.

 

Additional Considerations for Animal Welfare Proposals

To what extent does the proposal:

  • Enhance the value and importance of animals to human health and well-being?
  • Promote the humane treatment of companion and/or farm animals?

 

Additional Considerations for Environment Proposals

To what extent does the proposal:

  • Encourage conservation that enhances Maine's quality of place?
  • Support habitat protection, restoration and related public education?
  • Provide opportunities for people to remain connected to the land?
  • Protect Maine's working lands and waters?

 

Additional Considerations for Human Well-being Proposals

To what extent does the proposal:

  • Improve public health by increasing the adoption of healthy lifestyles?
  • Provide opportunities for educational enrichment and economic advancement?
  • Enhance Maine's quality of life and resource-based economy?
  • Support a network of social services for Maine people in great need?