Grant Criteria

ACJF Grant Criteria

ACJF offers grants of up to $25,000 for organizational or programmatic support.  Priority is given to organizations that:  have at least one full-time employee, have cultivated a broad base of support, and have been in operation for a minimum of two years.

After two consecutive years of funding, organizations (other than those providing Access to Justice services) must take a one-year break before re-applying.  Organizations may only submit one application for funding consideration each calendar year.

Nonprofit organizations submitting a proposal will:

  1. Have a tax-exempt status in good standing with the IRS.
  2. Meet core operating standards.
  3. Benefit the disadvantaged, disabled or at-risk as a part of their core mission.
  4. Be able to demonstrate results from previous strategic efforts.
  5. Be willing to work cooperatively with ACJF during the development of the proposal.

Proposed projects will:

  1. Have an impact beyond the organization funded.
  2. Have an impact beyond the grant period and a plan for securing funding if the work will extend beyond the grant period.
  3. Have a reasonable chance of succeeding with funds available from ACJF and other identified/prospective funders.
  4. Produce measurable results.
  5. Demonstrate a collaborative approach at meaningful levels.
  6. Explore opportunities to leverage ACJF funding to secure additional support.

ACJF will:

  1. Listen to and work with stakeholders and organizations in the field to identify potential initiatives for ACJF funding.
  2. Work cooperatively with the prospective grantee to develop the proposal.
  3. Provide technical assistance, if needed, during the grant year.

ACJF will give priority to organizations and programs that:

  1. Have a history that demonstrates significant or long-term impact.
  2. Leverage other funds.
  3. Are based on proven program models.
  4. Encourage high impact, broad-based collaboration.
  5. Are well-timed in light of implementation and expected outcome(s).
  6. Provide a strategy for developing long-term solutions to a significant Alabama problem.
  7. Impact policy issues.
  8. Demonstrate a reasonable chance of success with the funding available.