Local Arts and Educational Program
Background
Since its start in 1977, the Foundation has received applications from a wide variety of arts and educational organizations principally in the San Francisco Bay Area and in the State of Maine. Grantees over the years have included performing arts groups, literary programs, educational and environmental groups, and social service organizations. Growing emphasis now is on assisting arts and educational organizations in Maine and San Francisco and Alameda Counties.
New Grantseekers
Organizations that have not previously received funding from the Foundation are considered "new grantseekers." Such organizations may submit an unsolicited letter of inquiry that is no longer than two pages. Such letters may be sent by mail or email, and should contain* a brief institutional description, including when the organization was established, its location, and the total size of its annual operating budget;
* an overview of the proposed project or activity for which you are seeking support, including the timing of the work; and
* a list of foundations and corporations providing support to the organization or project and the amount of their contributions.
Letters should be addressed to Jeanie Hirokane, Corporate Secretary and Program Director, The Bernard Osher Foundation, One Market Plaza, Steuart Tower, Suite 1000 San Francisco, CA 94105. Emails should include "LOI" in the subject line. Inquiries are accepted throughout the year, and the Foundation responds within 90 days.
Returning Grantseekers
Organizations that have received Foundation support within the last year are considered "returning grantseekers." Such groups are required to submit a report describing how those funds were used. (Your grant agreement includes the exact deadline.) That report can be accompanied by a separate proposal for a renewal grant. Longstanding grantees can model their renewal request on previous submissions and all proposals should include the following:* contact information (name, title, address, email, telephone number) for the person who can answer questions about the report/proposal.
* a brief organizational description highlighting any significant changes that have occurred during the last year;
* a description of the work to be funded, a program/project budget, if applicable; and any other materials you feel are relevant;
* a copy of the organization's latest financial statement;
* a copy of the organization's IRS status letter confirming non-profit status;
* a list the organization's board of directors; and
* a list of foundations and corporations providing support to the organization or project and the amount of their contributions.
A single hard copy of a returning grantee's report and renewal grant proposal can be mailed to Jeanie Hirokane, Corporate Secretary and Program Director, The Bernard Osher Foundation, One Market Plaza, Steuart Tower, Suite 1000, San Francisco, CA 94105.
