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Before You Apply

Learn About Us

We consider grantmaking to be an investment in Spartanburg, SC that will contribute to a welcoming and connected community where all residents can achieve health and well-being. We want to partner with organizations in Spartanburg working diligently to improve health equity in our community.

Before submitting an application for a grant, potential applicants should first review our Vision, Mission, and Values as well as information about our focus. 

Eligibility

In order to receive funding from the Mary Black Foundation, an organization must be:

  • A current 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, as classified by the IRS, or governmental agency; and
  • Serving Spartanburg County, SC.

A core value of the Foundation is that we believe all people should have the opportunity to succeed. The Foundation supports and promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of the organization, including its grantmaking. The Foundation’s funds will not be used to carry out activities that are discriminatory or to support organizations engaged in discriminatory practices. This includes, but is not limited to, written or informal policies and procedures regarding staff and/or volunteer requirements, program content, or participant eligibility that are discriminatory.

Required Documents

As part of the application process, eligible organizations will be asked to submit the following:

  • A list of senior staff and the board of directors;
  • The organization’s operating budget; and
  • Recent Financial Statements.

It is not required to submit the organization’s Form 990 since it can be reviewed through Foundant.

Successful Applications

Organizations are more likely to receive funding from the Foundation if they can demonstrate the following during the grant review process:

  • A board of directors that is actively involved in strategic governance, fundraising, and giving;
  • A board and staff are representative of our diverse community in Spartanburg County;
  • Staff who are qualified through training and experience;
  • Implementation of a strategic plan that includes measurable objectives;
  • Use of a data management or tracking system that allows the organization to measure its outcomes;
  • The ability to use outcomes data to measure progress toward strategic goals and improve programs;
  • A focus on reducing health disparities; and
  • A collaborative spirit of working with other organizations in the community.

Grant Consultations

Grant consultations are available, but not required. Members of the program staff are happy to meet with organizations prior to the submission of an application. It may be beneficial for an organization to schedule a grant consultation if:

  • This is the organization’s first time applying for funding from the Foundation.
  • The organization has made significant changes or additions to programming, processes, mission, or work.
  • You feel that you are able to better represent the organization and scope of work through verbal communication (all applicants are required to submit a written application).
  • The organization is not based in Spartanburg but is interested in starting work in Spartanburg.

Consultations can be scheduled through Amy Page and must take place at least one week before the application deadline.

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