1.     What are the funding priorities of the Good Egg Initiative Fund?

We fund organizations working on food security initiatives and the local food infrastructure in western Montana. Historically, the mandate of our fund was broader. However, given pressing needs in western Montana, we have focused our attention on the region. We also believe it is imperative to support the community we call home. If your organization is focused on solutions to the pressing issues in food security and local food systems, agricultural sustainability or rural economic development in western Montana then we would like to learn more about you. Let’s find ways to work together to recognize the basic human right that is food security and nutrition.

2. Do I need to be a 501(c)(3) non-profit to apply?

Yes – mandated by the rules of our charitable giving account manager.

3.     Good Egg will not fund:

• Organizations that are NOT 501(c)(3) non-profits or do not intend to keep their non-profit status.

• Government ordered or mandated projects.

• Political activities, political lobbying, or political action committees.

• Religious organizations and General Social Service Organizations.

• Private foundations are rarely funded and will require additional due diligence.

• We are critical of non-profits with poor ratings on audit sites such as Charity Navigator or organizations with proven controversies or irregularities in the past. Such requests will be considered, but require additional due diligence and discussion.

4. How to Apply

Our Letter of Inquiry Application is PROVIDED HERE. Please download the form, complete the questionnaire and email it back to us at GoodEggPartners@gmail.com. It is a simple set of questions, detailing your organizations’ need and priorities. Some requests might be tied to a specific project; we want to understand it. Often, we fund general operating expenses, so please help us understand your organization. Explain your passion, what you are working on and how your organization makes a difference for food security and local food systems. The intake form is easy and should not take up too much of your time. We strive to keep it simple for you and for us so we can make a difference together.

5. When is the grant application deadline?

Grants are open for submission from February 15 through March 31 and again from August 15 through September 30 of each year. Our due diligence period will follow the closing dates.

For emergency requests or questions, please contact us directly at GoodEggPartners@gmail.com.

6. What is the due diligence process?

We commit to reviewing each application, and may reach out with additional questions. We plan a Zoom call or in person discussion with applicants who make it through the initial review. Not every application will be accepted. However, we will contact you with results regardless of the outcome. Please do not submit a full proposal with your application. We value your time and want you to stay focused on your organizational goals.

We intend to stay attentive to our mission and our western Montana focus. If you do receive funding from the Good Egg Initiative Fund, we reserve the right to use your organization’s logo on our website which will be linked to your organization’s home page. We also make occasional site visits and/or request calls for updates with grantees. Adequate notice will be provided for future contact.

 7. What is a typical grant size?

We typically grant between $5,000 and $25,000. We are unlikely to fund more than 10% to 15% of an organization’s general operating budget as this creates undue risks on us and the recipient organization. Grants exceeding our $25,000 limit are unlikely.

8.     What if I've received funding before?

If your organization received a grant from the Good Egg Initiative Fund in a previous year, please submit a year-end update on your program prior to submitting a Letter of Inquiry. Our year-end report template is PROVIDED HERE.

9. How many years in a row can my organization receive funding?

We try to limit funding to three consecutive years. After three years, we ask you to consider other sources of funding before applying again. Exceptions to this rule are possible, but will require additional due diligence and discussions with us.

10. Requirements

Activities supported by grants and program-related investments must (1) be charitable, educational, or scientific, as defined under the applicable provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and Treasury Regulations thereunder or fit the requirements for program-related investments according to the IRS and (2) meet certain other requirements necessary to qualify for exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Code. Good Egg Partners will monitor grants through regular financial reporting and narrative updates submitted by the grantee. All grantees will enter a grant agreement with the Good Egg Initiative Fund managers. The agreement will be provided after we decide to fund a grant request.

Further Questions?

If you are applying, we strongly encourage you to examine our website and closely read the requirements and other items detailed in this FAQs. Please determine if we are the appropriate fit for your organization; we are trying to partner with organizations aligned with our mission in food security and local food systems. Regardless of the decision, we are grateful for your interest in our organization and the work you do in Montana.

If you have additional questions, please email us directly at: GoodEggPartners@gmail.com   
We will do our best to respond as soon as possible.

A document with these guidelines and FAQs can be downloaded here.