The Site Visit

Application Process

The Site Visit

Once our staff has reviewed your Letter of Inquiry, we will contact you regarding the need for a site visit.

The site visit is an important step in the application process. It provides insights into a request that can only be obtained through direct discussions between the Foundation and the principals of the organization. It's also an opportunity for our staff to share information about the Foundation and its grantmaking activities.

The Foundation and the applicant have important roles and responsibilities to assure a productive site visit.

Applicant Responsibilities

It's important that you thoughtfully plan for the site visit. Your goal is to provide a clear presentation of your organization's work and the proposed project.

Be sure to:

  1. Assemble the principals of the proposed project:
    • Key agency personnel including the Executive Director
    • Representatives from collaborating organizations
    • Any other people playing an important role in the project
    • NOTE: The attendance of Board members, while not required, demonstrates a commitment to the proposed project.
  2. Develop an agenda for the site visit that includes:
    • An overview of the organization's mission, vision, and primary programs
    • A description of the assessment process used to determine the need for the capacity building project
    • An explanation of the project's logistics, budget, evaluation process and sustainability plan

Foundation Responsibilities

The site visit is our best opportunity to meet your key people, learn about your organization and fully understand the scope of your project.

During the site visit we will:

  1. Fully describe the Foundation's grantmaking process and provide deadline and notification dates.
  2. Share any concerns regarding the proposed project.
  3. Report the project's standing within the Foundation's grant cycle.
  4. Share the names of other organizations we may know of that are undertaking similar projects and may have advice or information to offer.

In general, site visits are held at the applicant organization's site if possible and last 1 to 1-1/2 hours.