If an organization applied for 501(c)(3) status but has yet to receive it, can the organization apply for a grant while waiting?

No.
 

Does AICM have a specific geographic focus?

AICM generally funds organizations within the Chicago community and its surrounding area (primarily Cook County). AICM also funds Jewish causes locally, nationally, and in Israel.

What is meant by “AICM will not accept unsolicited proposals from Israel?”

Proposals from any organization outside of the United States should not be submitted and will be declined unless they were invited by AICM.
 

What types of programs or projects does AICM NOT fund?

AICM is unable to fund organizations that are not registered as a 501(c)(3), tax-exempt not-for-profit agency. AICM does not support non-profit organizations that are largely (50% or greater) government sponsored programs. AICM does not fund individuals, underwrite special events, or sponsor conferences, advocacy programs or film projects.

Does AICM fund multi-year grants?

Yes, if there is a compelling case to provide several years of support. 

Will AICM fund general operating expenses if that is the organization’s greatest need?

Yes, but this determination is based on the overall value and effectiveness of the organization.

Does AICM support capital campaigns?

Yes.
 

When are the application deadlines?

AICM does not have fixed deadlines for proposals. Full proposals are invited after the review of an organization’s Letter of Intent (LOI). The two LOI deadlines are January 15^th (for the Spring Board Meeting) and July 15^th (for the Fall Board Meeting). Please note, Education submissions will be reviewed only in the Spring; and Arts & Culture as well as Civic Affairs submissions will be reviewed only in the Fall. All organizations must submit an LOI by 5:00 PM by one of the two deadline dates. Letters received after this time will be placed in the next review cycle. 

How long and detailed is a standard LOI?

The LOI should be no more than two pages in length and should adequately describe the nature of the organization’s work, the size of its budget, the proposed project (and associated budget) and the amount requested. The LOI should also include a copy of the organization’s tax exempt determination and a contact email.

How much money should an organization request?

AICM does not give guidance in this area. Organizations should first consider how much money the program requires and then consider what portion is appropriate for AICM to fund. Please note that AICM staff will ask you about other sources of support during the review process. 

How do organizations know if their application was received?

AICM sends electronic receipts for emailed LOIs. If an organization does not email an LOI and would like confirmation of receipt, email the office. 

What happens if an application arrives past the deadline?

It will be considered for the next cycle. 

What happens after an organization submits an LOI?

Once it is determined that the LOI submission is complete (i.e. includes all of the required information and materials), AICM staff will review the request. If the organization’s work coincides with AICM goals, additional information and/or a full proposal may be requested. 

Whom may I contact about my proposal?

Please note AICM does not provide guidance on LOI preparation and the preferred method of initial contact is the LOI. Become familiar with the program areas, guidelines, and process before making an inquiry. 

If approved, when should the grantee expect to receive funding?

An organization will receive a check within a month after the Board’s approval, provided the grant is not made on a contingent basis. 

If not approved, how soon can an organization reapply?

AICM only accepts one request within a 12-month period from a single organization. 

Can an organization apply for renewed funding?

Yes. The process repeats for renewed funding.