Were you invited to apply for a Multi-Year Grant?
An access code will be provided to apply.
The Multi-Year Grant Initiative was launched in 2014 by the Ausherman Family Foundation Trustees. The purpose of Multi-Year Grants is to help strengthen sound organizations and assist with new initiatives to achieve success in development and establishment of new programs. Multi-Year Grants are designed to be a three- to five-year commitment to help an organization get the project or program started while allowing them time to make it self-sustainable.
The organization would be financially supported throughout the growth process for operations and consulting fees period. The Multi-Year Grant is not intended to repair an organizational issue.
Applications are accepted by invitation only.
Eligibility:
- Strong staff and board leadership
- An innovative new idea or a recognized program that has track record of success (this could include models of successful programs in other communities)
- Serves Frederick County residents and is located in Frederick County, MD.
- Falls into one of the Trustees’ designated areas of interest
- Strong preference given to previous grantees
Multi-Year Grants FAQs
How can I apply?
- Applicants must be invited to apply and given an access code to use on the online portal.
- Ausherman Family Foundation will contact the nonprofit to explain the basic goals of Focus Grants and gauge interest.
- Anticipate that the Foundation will request a Concept Plan with a with a supporting budget.
I have an idea I would like to pitch to the Foundation. What steps should I take?
- Multi-Year Grants are initiated by the Ausherman Family Foundation. However, the Trustees may invite an organization to expand upon an idea from a General or Capacity Building Grant that seems like a viable candidate for a Focus Grant.
- If you would like to speak with the staff, the Executive Director may schedule a call or meeting to discuss your idea.
What is the difference between a Capacity Building Grant and a Multi-Year Grant?
- Multi-Year grants provide a higher level of annual funding over multiple years with the expectation that the impact will be greater than what is expected a Capacity Building grant.
- The Trustees and staff of the Foundation intend to work more closely and for a longer period of time with the grant recipient, compared to the Capacity Building Grant Program.
What is expected in an application?
- A list of the board of directors, their terms of service, and skill set provided
- A contingency plan, should an executive transition occur, and how the plan and organizational action will minimize setbacks
- A letter of support from the organization’s board
- Detailed budget projections for 3 to 5 years including:
- Consultant costs
- Cash flow projections
- Past year actual financial statements (income & expense & balance sheet)
- Present year financial statements showing actual and projected income and expenses and balance sheet
- Most recent financial audit and management letter, if available
- An outline of a sustainability plan
- Success measurements based on expected outcomes. Include goals, objectives, tactics, timelines, and assignments (who will do what) for each year’s goals.
- Includes an evidence-based model, if followed
How are funds distributed over the course of three to five years?
- If the Trustees are satisfied with the progress of the grant, funds are generally distributed every 6 months.
What are the reporting requirements?
- Grant reports are completed at a minimum of every six months.
- Grant reports may be submitted via the online portal, verbally, or a site visit at the Ausherman Family Foundation’s discretion.
- Annually, organizations will have an opportunity to reflect on lessons learned and make slight adjustments to the plan and goals as needed to meet the grant intent.
How is success measured?
- Grant applicants will set expectations and explain what the leadership and staff expect to accomplish, including what the outcomes of the accomplishments will be.
- If possible, baseline, timelines, best practices and benchmarks will be established and measured.
Is my organization eligible to receive other types of grants during the Multi-Year Grant period?
Yes.
I would like to publicly express appreciation for the grant. What are your guidelines?
Refer to our Recognition Guidelines page.