Grant Making Process

Giant Steps Foundation (GSF) is a small foundation and has a focused and individual “hands-on” approach to grantmaking with many of our grantees. Therefore, we made a conscious decision to not accept unsolicited proposals; instead, we choose organizations that best match our interests and values.

Because we can’t possibly know of every creative and beneficial solution to end suffering, GSF is open to inquiries through our website—see the steps below before submitting an inquiry.

The issues we engage in share the characteristics of being deeply rooted in human behaviors which are dynamic and complex. None of the areas we fund will be solved easily and quickly and none will be solved through our efforts alone. Therefore, we emphasize collaboration and compromise with all stakeholders that join with us in taking risks, pushing for new solutions, and harnessing the transformative power of kindness, understanding, and cooperation. We strive to engage with our grantees and partners in a spirit of trust, open communication, and transparency.

STEP ONE

Potential applicants review our values, our focus areas, and the principles that guide our grantmaking to determine if the nonprofit is compatible with the Foundation. If during this phase, you have questions, please contact us.

STEP TWO

If after reviewing our website, you believe your nonprofit is a good match for Giant Steps Foundation funding, please submit this brief Inquiry Form. The email should succinctly describe the organization and the proposed project, briefly explain its relevance to a particular GSF funding area or initiative and specify how the program will help to solve a certain issue. Depending upon the size of your organization and the amount requested, this may be all that is required from you to be reviewed for a grant from Giant Steps. You will receive a response from us to let you know about any necessary next steps.

STEP THREE

If directed by the Foundation, you may be asked to submit a proposal and supporting materials. During the application process, we collaborate on acceptable goals that meet our mutual definition of success to create a positive impact. Unfortunately, the invitation to submit a formal grant proposal does not guarantee funding. There are so many worthwhile issues and dedicated people working to solve them that GSF cannot fund every proposal.

STEP FOUR

The bulk of GSF’s grant applications are due by November 1 with decisions and grants made in February the following year. However, GSF does accept and review emergency grant applications during the year.

STEP FIVE

For any grant distributed, Giant Steps appreciates a report on how the money was spent, what was achieved, any unexpected outcomes, and lessons learned. At the time the grant is awarded, grantees will receive a letter with reporting requirements. The reporting requirements are determined by the size of the organization and the amount of funding.

Funding Alignment

Applications are assessed for alignment with our mission and core values. If alignment is unclear, we’re happy to explore common ground—but if alignment cannot be reached, we will respectfully step back from financial support while remaining open to other meaningful forms of partnership.

Plant-Based Food Commitment

In support of protecting all life, especially farmed animals, we ask animal welfare nonprofits—and encourage all others—to adopt the following practices:

• Serve only plant-based food at events.
• Ensure staff and volunteers consume vegan meals when representing the organization.
• Reimburse meals only when they are plant-based.

Ethical Use of Service Animals

For organizations working with service or assistance animals, we expect:

• Use of rescued animals whenever possible.
• Secured retirement plans for service animals via the organization or clients.
• Placement of animals who do not meet training standards in loving, permanent homes—not returned to shelters.

Humane and Sustainable Practices

We prioritize organizations that commit to compassionate, cruelty-free, and environmentally responsible practices, including:

• Use of plant-based, cruelty-free, and sustainable products.
• Avoid harm to animals in any part of operations.
• Conduct animal-free research and testing.
• Practice responsible investing aligned with humane values.
• Encourage vendors and partners to adopt ethical standards.
• Purchase of donor gifts that are animal-free, plastic-free, locally sourced, fair-trade, and sustainable.

Additionally, instead of gifts to GSF, we kindly request that all available funds be directed to mission-critical work.

Financial Responsibility

The board of directors and staff of all organizations have a fiduciary duty to ensure that the assets are managed and used in accordance with their charitable mission. GSF adheres to the following practices and looks to our grantees to do the same.

Requirements include:

• Adhering to all legal and ethical financial standards.
• Avoiding any conflicts of interest.
• Ensuring no individual personally benefits from nonprofit activities.

For organizations with:

• $400,000+ in annual revenue or $20,000+ in GSF grants: A qualified, independent financial expert must manage tax filings and audits.
• $500,000+ in annual revenue: A Finance Committee, comprised of board members, must oversee fiscal responsibility.

Communication

Our partnerships thrive on clear, respectful, and ethical communication.

We expect:

• Inclusion of all relevant voices in messaging.
• Honest, respectful communication with peers and the public.
• Celebrating your impact without diminishing others.
• Avoiding sensationalism or misleading content—let truth and integrity guide your storytelling.

Grant Inquiry Form | Grant Application Form