Grant Review Process

After we receive your proposal, there is a three-step review process prior to any funding awards. The process includes: 1) internal staff review, 2) external grant review panel, and 3) review and approval by the ECF Board of Trustees. Projects can receive of one of four options: full funding, partial funding, deferment, or declination.

Step 1: Internal Review

The internal grant review process consists of an analysis of the grant application materials by the program and finance departments. On occasion, a site visit is scheduled to get a better understanding of the project. Additional documents may be requested to help clarify potential issues that might come up during the discussions. Various analysis reports are created and presented to the independent Grant Review Panel.

Step 2: Grant Review Panel

The Grant Review Panel—comprised of trustees and community members—reviews all the grant applications independently, and then meet face-to-face to discuss the merits of each request. Proposals are reviewed using standardized Grant Review Criteria, and recommendations for funding are made based on the quarterly distribution allocation.

Step 3: Trustee Review

Grant review panel recommendations are then presented to the full ECF Board of Trustees for their review and approval. Once approved, grant applicants are notified in writing regarding of the status of their applications.