GRANTMAKING

The Roger I. and Ruth B. MacFarlane Foundation conducts its grantmaking through proposals invited by the Executive Director and Trustees. The Foundation makes grants in two categories:

  • Category Two grants are the Foundation’s larger grants and range in size from $200,000 - $250,000. In 2026, the Foundation is focusing its Category Two grants on solutions to address climate change and protect the environment. Organizations and projects funded may include those that, for example:

    • Promote policies and practices that facilitate the transition to a clean energy economy;

    • Advance policies, practices, and innovations that reduce carbon emissions;

    • Steward and care for natural environments and ecosystems;

    • Engage frontline communities in actions that protect their local environment for community well-being and long-term sustainability.

  • Category One grants, ranging in size from $25,000 - $75,000, may be provided to organizations addressing one of a range of issues of interest to the Trustees. Previous Category One grants have addressed education, health, housing, immigrant rights, and the well-being of women and girls, among other issues. Generally, organizations are identified by the Executive Director or a Trustee, rather than through unsolicited requests.

The Foundation primarily funds organizations whose programs focus on populations within the United States, though the Foundation also has supported U.S.-based nonprofits working in other countries. 

Grant Timelines

The Foundation identifies potential organizations for Category Two grants during the Spring of each year, invites proposals in early Summer, and makes decisions in the Fall. 

The Foundation makes Category One grants throughout the year. 

Letters of Inquiry

The Foundation accepts grant proposals by invitation only. We are open to receiving Letters of Inquiry; however, please note that we receive approximately 1,000 Letters of Inquiry annually and fund fewer than 1% of those received. Please know that we appreciate learning about the positive and impactful work conducted by dedicated organizations throughout the United States and the world. At the same time, we are respectful of your time and seek to provide a realistic assessment of the likelihood of funding.

If you are interested in submitting a letter of inquiry, you may send a two- to three-page letter that includes the following information:

  • Organization’s name, executive director’s name and contact information, address, and website;

  • Organizational background, including its mission, major activities, track record of impact, and annual budget; and

  • Purpose to which the grant funds would be dedicated, including the population served and anticipated outcomes.

Please email your letter of inquiry to Amy Dominguez-Arms, Executive Director, Roger I. and Ruth B. MacFarlane Foundation, at Amy@MacFarlaneFoundation.org.