When most fire chiefs think of grant funding, they typically think of state and federal programs such as the Assistance to Firefighter Grant (AFG) program. These state and federal programs provide millions of dollars each year to support U.S. fire departments.
Unfortunately, not all applicants make it through the review process, and not all of the types of various equipment or apparatus are eligible for funding. In these instances, fire chiefs can seek out lesser-known alternative funding sources for necessary equipment, apparatus, or programs.
Historically, private sector and nonprofit sector grants have been overlooked by the fire service even though private and corporate grant programs donate millions of dollars each year for a variety of community services, projects, and programs. Private and nonprofit sector grants are typically one-time grants and generally won’t assist with what is considered regular operating expenses; however, they can be excellent sources of revenue for one-time capital projects, planning projects (for example, fleet assessment and planning studies), seed money for initial program development, technical assistance and facilities, apparatus, and equipment funding. Private source funding can also be a resource for in-kind services or even low-interest loans. State and federal grants specifically dedicated to the fire service are typically more aggressively advertised and are definitely more familiar to the fire service. As a result, alternative funding sources often go untapped, simply because fire departments are not aware of these potential opportunities. When faced with funding challenges, fire chiefs must seek out alternative funding opportunities such as foundation grants.
FOUNDATIONS
Foundations are nonprofit entities that support community-based organizations and charitable causes that serve the common good. Foundations are typically funded through endowments established by individuals, families, or corporations. Foundations are managed by boards of trustees that consider grant applications and make determinations on funding priorities. There are three common types of foundations: private independent foundations, corporate foundations and giving programs, and community foundations.
Private foundations (also referred to as independent foundations) are not closely associated with for-profit corporations or public entities. Private foundations are typically formed by an individual, family, or business and use a single source of funding from which to create grants. Private foundations can vary in size from very large foundations, which award millions of dollars a year, to medium and small foundations. Smaller private foundations may be operated by a single donor and family members, while larger foundations are often managed by an independent board of directors with staff members who review proposals and make philanthropic recommendations to the board.
Independent private foundations are often focused on making a difference in a particular community or on a particular issue or problem. Independent private foundations will often publish guidelines that will inform potential applicants of the goals they are seeking to accomplish through their grant awards. While independent private foundations generally have a more narrow focus, there are quite a few foundations that make grants available for public safety needs as well as community health.
Corporate foundations and various corporate giving programs are specific types of private foundations that receive funding from a corporation and make grant awards on its behalf. Corporate foundations are considered separate legal entities and are operated by an independent board of directors, often comprising company executives and employees. Corporate foundations and giving programs often seek to improve conditions or implement programs in communities where their e