Is there a limit to how many grants I can recommend in a year, or how often I can make grant recommendations?
Currently, there is no limit to the number of grants an advisor can recommend. Grant recommendations can be made at any time during the year.
Are there any restrictions on the grant size I can recommend?
Minimum recommendations of $500 are requested. Grant recommendations greater than $50,000 need to be approved by the community foundation's Board of Directors.
May I fulfill personal pledges through recommending a grant from the Maine Community Foundation?
In accordance with U. S. Treasury Department regulations, grants awarded from community foundation funds may not be used to fulfill personal pledges or to pay for memberships, dues, or anything that provides a direct benefit to a donor/fund advisor.
How long will it take to process my grant recommendation?
Grant recommendations of $50,000 or less are normally processed within a week after we receive the completed form and confirm the recipient's IRS nonprofit status. During December, our busiest period for donor advised recommendations, we may require up to two weeks to complete your request. Grant recommendations greater than $50,000 may take longer, as the community foundation's Board of Directors must approve them.
Who can recommend grants from the donor advised fund I established at the Maine Community Foundation?
Anyone listed on the fund agreement can recommend grants from the fund. (The fund agreement is the form signed by the donor when he/she makes the initial gift.) The foundation will consider written requests to add advisors to the fund agreement.
May I recommend grants anonymously?
Yes, you may indicate on your grant recommendation form that the fund name and/or the advisor name(s) be anonymous.
How will I know how much is available to distribute from the fund?
You will receive a financial statement in January that provides details of the fund, including a list of contributions and grants for the prior year, and the fund's pro rata share of investment growth. If the fund is endowed, the statement will show the amount available for distribution. Statements are also available semi-annually and quarterly. If you have any questions about the fund balance, please call the community foundation toll-free at (877) 700-6800.
What kind of organizations may I recommend for grants?
Nonprofit organizations that are classified by the IRS as a 501(c)(3). Schools, municipalities, and government programs are eligible.
May I recommend a grant to an individual?
No. Advised funds may make distributions only to qualifying nonprofit and public organizations such as municipalities and schools. Advisors may, however, recommend grants to schools or other organizations that award scholarships.
May I recommend grants to organizations outside of Maine?
Yes. The foundation also makes international grants if the nonprofit organization has a recipient U.S. entity.
May I recommend a multi-year grant?
Yes. At the time of your recommendation, please indicate both the amount and schedule of the distribution.
May I recommend a grant to an organization where I serve on the board?
Yes, as long as you receive no personal benefit from the grant.
What is the Maine Community Foundation's Tax ID number?
01-0391479.
For more information, please visit our Resources for Donors page.