OUR Rescue Grant

Awards of $5,000 to $50,000 will be announced by the end of 2024 and awarded beginning in 2025 to organizations who have a record of accomplishment and possess the organizational capacity to execute their proposed project with clear metrics for success. Operating and capital requests will be considered if your organization can demonstrate how funding will create significant impact. OUR Rescue will allow up to 15% overhead for programs and projects but no overhead for operating and capital requests. Organizations from anywhere in the U.S. are welcome to apply, but a portion of total funds will be reserved specifically for organizations and/or projects located in Minnesota and Texas.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Organization must be registered as a 501c(3) nonprofit organization. If the organization does not have 501c(3) status, the grantee must list a fiscal sponsor who can serve as the responsible 501c(3).
• The project must align with OUR Rescue’s mission, priorities, and focus areas.
• Grant funds may not be used for lobbying or political activities.
• Project or program must occur within the U.S.

The grant contains the condition of a “one-to-one match”, which means the Grantee must raise one dollar for every dollar awarded by OUR Rescue. Federal funds cannot be used as matching funds for this grant. Eligible sources for matching funds include:

• State and local government funds.
• Private donations from individuals, corporations, or foundations. Donations must be specifically raised in relation to this match.
• In-kind contributions, such as volunteer services, donated goods, or facilities or staff time can be applied to your match total. The value of the in-kind contribution is limited to 50% of the match requirement.

Grantee must provide to OUR Rescue proof of having raised the matching funds. OUR Rescue will not distribute grant funds until such proof is received, after which OUR Rescue will forward to the Grantee a check for OUR Rescue’s matching grant. Our standards for proof are flexible: proof may consist of letters showing evidence of pledges, letters showing approval of grants from other sources, or even an internal financial statement showing funds received and the dates they were received. Proof of having raised the matching funds must be submitted within one year of award notification or the grant will be rescinded. You are encouraged to submit, with your grant application, letters of intent or other documentation of any known matching funds pledged or obtained.