FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions for Skillman Foundation Grant Applicants

  • Who can apply?

    Skillman Foundation grantseekers and grantees must:

    • Be a nonprofit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and provide your tax id (EIN) number or is a government or public agency (city, county, state, public school district).
    • Be a publicly supported charity as defined in Section 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code.
    • Have total revenues of at least $100,000 for your preceding fiscal year and must provide a copy of a current financial audit conducted by an independent certified public accountant.

    Back to Top

  • What types of requests are not funded?

    The Foundation does not make grants to:

    • Individuals
    • For-profit institutions
    • Endowments, building campaigns, or capital costs, including construction, renovation, or equipment
    • Political campaigns, to support political activities or to lobby for or against particular pieces of legislation
    • Award scholarships or provide tuition assistance

    Back to Top

  • What are the Foundation's priority program areas?

    The Foundation funds programs that serve children and families in three program areas: Good Schools, Good Neighborhoods, and Good Opportunities. We strongly encourage organizations seeking funding from the Foundation to examine in detail the Background and Goals sections of each program, and all application guidelines and information.

    Back to Top

  • Where does the Foundation make grants?

    The Foundation primarily funds programs that serve children and families in the City of Detroit with a focus on the following neighborhoods:

    • Brightmoor
    • Chadsey/Condon
    • Cody Rouge
    • Northend Central Woodward
    • Osborn
    • Southwest Detroit Neighborhoods

    The Foundation also accepts Grant Inquiries from charitable organizations and public agencies that engage in public policy and advocacy for children and families on a statewide and local level.

    Back to Top

  • When are the Foundation's application deadlines?

    New grant inquiries should be submitted approximately two months in advance of Trustee meeting dates.

    Back to Top

  • When can I expect a response from the Foundation after an inquiry?

    You can generally expect to hear from us within 15 business days; however, you are always welcome to contact us.

    Back to Top

  • How do I apply for a grant?

    The Foundation has an online application system. Please access the page Submit a Grant Inquiry to view instructions and the link to the online application system.

    Back to Top

  • Can I save my Grant Inquiry and finish it later?

    Yes. You can start the online Grant Inquiry, save it, and return later to continue working on it. You will be prompted to create an account with your e-mail address and password. An e-mail will be automatically sent to that e-mail address confirming your password and containing a new link to access your saved Grant Inquiry in your account.

    Back to Top

  • What do I do if I have forgotten my password to the online application system?

    Access the My Account page. Enter your e-mail and select "Forgot your password. Click here". Your password will be e-mailed to you.

    Back to Top

  • Can I change or delete my Grant Inquiry after I submit it?

    No. However, if your Grant Inquiry was submitted in error, or you do not want it to be considered in our next grant cycle, please promptly contact us via e-mail at mailto:grants@skillman.org or telephone at (313) 393-1185.

    Back to Top

  • Can I review the Grant Inquiry without filling it out?

    Yes, you can download sample copies of the Grant Inquiry on the Submit a Grant Inquiry page under Step 3: Print a Copy of the Working Draft Grant Inquiry Template.

    Back to Top

  • Does the Foundation accept paper copies of the Grant Inquiry via mail or e-mail?

    No. The Foundation has transitioned to an online application submission system. Please do not mail or e-mail your Grant Inquiry to the Foundation. Please do not send binders, books, CDs, videotapes or audiotapes.

    Back to Top

  • Can I submit my Grant Inquiry without all the required attachments?

    No. You must have all required attachments uploaded to submit your Grant Inquiry. This will speed the process along since we can't begin reviewing your proposal until we have received everything.

    Back to Top

  • How can I find out the status of my grant request?

    Applicants can expect to hear from us by e-mail generally within 15 business days. After that, a program officer may contact you to set up a meeting to review your proposal or to ask some additional questions.

    Back to Top

  • How do we contact you?

    Please contact The Skillman Foundation at 100 Talon Centre Drive, Suite 100, Detroit, MI 48207. Reach us by phone at (313) 393-1185; by fax at (313) 393-1187; or by e-mail to info@skillman.org.

    Back to Top