How is my donation to E91 Foundation different from a donation to East 91st Street Christian Church?
Although E91 Foundation launched from East 91st Street Christian Church, the foundation is a separate grant-making entity. Giving to the church does not mean your donation will be a lasting legacy in the evangelical organizations and projects through the E91 Foundation. Donations to the church go toward church operating expenses.
Guidelines For Funding
East 91st Street Christian Church Foundation is a not-for-profit Private Foundation. It is a Public Benefit Corporation formed under Indiana law.
The Foundation does not provide funding for operating expenses of existing ministries. The Foundation concentrates on funding new or expanding ministries. There are two objectives for grants:
- Assisting the making of disciples. Matthew 28: 18-20
- Meeting the physical needs of hurting people. Matthew 25:35-40
All organizations, and their officers, receiving grants from the Foundation must adhere to Christian beliefs and principles. These beliefs affirm that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who died and was resurrected and who provides individuals with their only hope of eternal salvation.
Grants will only be given to churches and organizations recognized as tax exempt under Section 501 (c) (3) of the U. S. Internal Revenue Code. Grants cannot be given to individuals, or groups which are not tax exempt or for-profit.
If we have received a grant, will we be able to receive funding in subsequent years?
Yes, although you will have to reapply. A previous grant is not a guarantee of future funding.
Do you support multi-year grants?
Occasionally, but not very often.
What is the average grant size?
Our grants generally are $5,000, although we do make smaller and larger grants.
Should I request an in-person meeting with East 91st Foundation Directors?
We generally do not meet with applicants until a proposal has been invited or because a Director has requested a meeting. Speaking with East 91st Foundation before the LOI or proposal submission will not increase an organization’s likelihood of funding as this decision is made by the board. However, you may contact us with any questions.
If I am a returning grantee, do I need to submit another LOI?
If you received funding the previous year, it is not required, although you are welcome to send us an update. If you received funding more than one year ago, you will need to begin the LOI process again.
What is the difference between a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) and a Full Proposal?
A Letter of Inquiry is a brief introduction to your organization and is used as a tool to help the Fund select which organizations will be invited to submit a full proposal. An LOI does not need to have a specific funding request and requires less information than a full proposal. Proposals are used to determine which organizations will receive funding and therefore require much more detailed information. You do not need an invitation to submit an LOI, although we suggest reading our guidelines carefully to ensure your organization is eligible for funding. Proposals are accepted through invitation only.