Guidelines

Grant Requests are handled as follows:

Grant requests are limited to programs and projects benefiting the critical needs of women and children in the Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas/Fort Worth regions of Texas.

All requests are to be made online (see applications page) and can be submitted between July 1st and December 1st for funding the following spring. Every effort is made to notify applicants whether their application will be moving forward for further consideration by the end of January.

Required for each application:

1. Determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service indicating that it is an organization described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (an organization may also qualify if it falls within the terms of Section 170(c)(1) and the funds are to be used exclusively for public purposes)
2. Most recent audited financial statements
3. Tax returns for the last three years (if applicable)

For proposals that are selected for further consideration, additional supporting documents may be sent via email (preferred) or regular mail. Additionally, a site visit will typically be scheduled and conducted by one of the trustees as part of the evaluation process (most likely in the early spring).

Grant proposals will be analyzed and finalized in the April funding meeting. Applicants will be notified of the outcome shortly after, typically by early May.

Upon approval, recipients of new grants will receive an award packet via email. This packet must be signed and returned before the funding can be disbursed. The signed copy can be submitted via email (preferred) or regular mail.

Single year grants require a status report within twelve months of the date granted.

Multi-year grants require annual progress reports by March 31st for April review. This report should describe the status of the project and any insightful updates. Payments follow approval of progress reports.

Capital Campaign grants receive initial funding post-groundbreaking and final payment post-project completion.

Grantees may apply for a new grant in the following cycle after receiving their last funding disbursement.

The Lowe Foundation is obligated to adhere to the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and be a responsible financial steward. Therefore, the Foundation reserves the right to suspend or terminate its commitment and call for a return of grant funds should there be a change in the organization's non-profit status, or it is determined that the funds are not being used for their specified purpose.