FISA Foundation believes in and invests in innovation; however we also recognize the current economic challenges facing nonprofits. In light of the fact that funds are limited, FISA carefully considers where it can have the greatest impact, as well as the availability of other funding sources (including focus areas of other local foundations). The Foundation will consider grants for:
The Foundation gives priority to projects and programs that have clearly defined outcomes and a realistic evaluation plan.
Past awards since 1997 are available to view here: https://fisafoundation.org/grants/grants-awarded/.
The Foundation does not make grants in support of:
FISA Foundation funds nonprofit organizations providing services in southwestern Pennsylvania, limited to the following counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland. All grants benefit women, girls or people with disabilities.
Grant applicants are encouraged to submit a 2-3-page letter of inquiry outlining the need to be addressed, a brief description of the proposed project or program, and the amount of the request. Letters should be accompanied by a completed application form.
Letters of inquiry are reviewed on a monthly basis. You will receive an update about the status of your inquiry within six weeks.
Applications for projects supporting people with disabilities have additional instructions available here: https://fisafoundation.org/2020/07/request-for-letters-of-inquiry/
Awards vary by size and scope of project.