Arcus Foundation - Apply for a Grant

The Arcus Foundation is always looking for innovative ideas that advance informed and engaged communities. Our funding strategy targets general operating support, project support for specific programs, public policy and research, capital projects and capacity building, in two main areas of focus: social justice and great apes conservation. We do not make grants to individuals, or for scholarships, lobbying purposes, political campaigns, film production, or medical research. Letters of inquiry should state the name of the program and strategic funding area that is applicable to the project. The Arcus Foundation requires all organizations seeking funding to have in place a board-approved Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy that specifically includes and lists sexual orientation and gender identity, and requires compliance with all other applicable federal and local EEO laws. Organizations with noncompliant EEO policies will not be considered for funding.

Please select one of these three options to learn about Arcus’ specific funding areas:

- International Human Rights

- U.S. Social Justice

- Global Religions

If your organization is eligible to be funded by Arcus, the next step is to identify which specific program and funding area applies to your program.  The steps below describe the Arcus grantmaking process, and the estimated timeframes associated with each stage.  

How to apply for funding:

1. Submit an Initial Funding Concept (IFC) - The first step in submitting an initial request for funding or a concept is to use our online system. Clicking on the link at the bottom of this page will bring you to a short IFC form within our grantmaking portal.  Once received, it will be directed to the appropriate program staff for review and you can expect to hear from us within 3-4 weeks.

2. Submission of a Letter of Inquiry and full Proposal - If your organization’s work aligns with our values, strategic priorities and EEO requirement, your organization could be invited to submit a Letter of Inquiry, and a subsequent full Proposal, which includes the submission of additional organizational and project-specific documentation.   

3. Proposal review and funding determination - The LOI and Proposal review may include program officers, directors, vice presidents, the Executive Director and the Board of Trustees. The timeframe varies depending on the size and scope of the proposal. Arcus program and grants management staff will be in contact with you during this process and will notify you of the final decision.