Frequently Asked Questions
I am unsure if my project/program will qualify.
The Golisano Foundation is happy to answer any questions you have about a potential project or program. In fact, we prefer you contact us for clarification before starting the application process. You can also check our eligibility guidelines for further information.
My agency is outside of Western NY or Southwest Florida, can I still apply?
Unfortunately, the Golisano Foundation does not accept applications outside of our geographic target region. We will only accept applications from Western NY (OPWDD Region 1) and Southwest Florida. For more information, please see the map of our geographic target area.
My agency doesn’t typically serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but we are committing to becoming more inclusive. Can we still apply?
Yes! We encourage all agencies to include people with IDD in their programming. We suggest you contact the Foundation to discuss your application before submitting an LOI.
We started a draft application earlier in the year. Can we pick up where we left off and still use this application?
Yes, you may continue with the application for the upcoming grant cycle. However, prior to doing this, please contact the Foundation to let us know your intentions.
We started an application but have missed the deadline. Can we still apply?
Under certain circumstances, the Foundation will consider allowing applications to be completed after the application deadline has passed. However, these are limited situations and require a conversation with Foundation staff. If the deadline has passed and you have not finished your application, please contact the Foundation for next steps.
The account is under a former employee’s name. What do I do?
This is a common problem. The Foundation can help you with this. Simply contact us and we can help you get access to the account once you’ve created your new Foundant account.
There is not enough space for me to fill answers. What can I do?
While it may not seem like enough space, we do limit the characters to encourage applicants to be brief with their narratives. This makes it easier for us to understand your program or project and allows us to share important details with the Board of Trustees.
What happens after I submit my application?
Applications are considered on a quarterly basis. After applications are submitted they are reviewed by Foundation staff. Meetings and phone calls may be scheduled to discuss the application further. Agencies are notified, in writing, of approval or denial of request within two weeks of the board’s decision.
I am running a fundraiser for my agency, can the Golisano Foundation be a sponsor?
Unfortunately, the Foundation does not fund sponsorships for events.
Our agency needs a new coordinator for a jobs program, can we apply for a grant to cover this?
Yes, we do consider applications for hiring staff positions. We suggest that you contact the Foundation staff before submitting your application to clarify.
Our agency is planning to launch a capital campaign, is this something the Foundation might support?
Yes. The Foundation gives consideration to capital projects given that the campaign fits within the guidelines of our focus area of IDD and our geographic target region.