FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. When are your grant proposal deadlines?

Proposals are considered quarterly on the following dates. Please note that paper copies must be received by these dates. If either date falls on a weekend or holiday, applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on the Friday immediately preceding the deadline. There are no exceptions.

Spring
April 1 by 5:00 p.m.

Summer
July 1 by 5:00 p.m.

Fall
October 1 by 5:00 p.m.

Winter
December 30 by 5:00 p.m.

2. Does the Foundation make grants to individuals or private foundations?

The Foundation does not make grants to individuals or organizations classified as private foundations. The applicant must be an organization described in paragraph (1) or (2) of Section 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code (i.e., a publicly supported charity or a governmental unit).

3. What is the average dollar amount of an awarded grant?

Grant amounts are difficult to assess as they vary based on the individual organizational needs and the resources of the Foundation. However, grants have ranged from as small as $1,500 to as large as $1,000,000. It is important to provide a detailed explanation of how the funds will be used and what other resources your organization does (or does not) have.

4. What are the chances that my proposal will receive support?

This is difficult to assess; however, the Foundation receives a large number of applications each year and funds those projects that support the goals and objectives of Ruby W. and LaVon P. Linn, as well as those that will make a significant difference with lasting tangible results.

Some of Mrs. Linn’s favorite areas of interest include Simmons College (her alma mater), veteran’s issues, promoting patriotism and Americanism, Methodist institutions and capital projects. Salaries and operating expenses will not be covered.

Please note that the Trustees will review all applications in their entirety and will notify all organizations of their decision whether or not they have decided to award a grant.

5. How do I submit an application?

Please read through the application process for specific instructions on submitting a grant proposal.

6. How long does it take for a proposal to be approved?

The Trustees meet quarterly - each spring, summer, fall, and winter. All applicants will be notified of the Trustees' decision within 10 business days after the meeting.

7. My organization was not awarded a grant, can you provide specific feedback?

Generally the Foundation does not provide specific feedback on why a grant proposal was denied. Please be sure to read through our application instructions and guidelines to be sure that your organization’s interests are aligned with those of the Foundation. Please note that Foundation resources are limited and so long as you are following our guidelines, you may re-apply for a future grant.

8. Does the Linn Foundation support organizations and projects outside of New England?

If your organization or project falls outside of New England but falls in line with the goals and objectives of the Foundation, the Linn Foundation will consider your proposal. We do not prohibit applications outside of the New England region.

9. My question is not listed. How can I contact the Foundation?

You may email us at linnfoundation@choate.com with additional questions or concerns. Please allow one to two business days for a response.