U.S. Venture: Community Engagement Committee Grant Program

The U.S. Venture and Schmidt Family Foundation (USV/SFF) is accepting applications for its Community Engagement Committee (CEC) Grant Program, providing nonprofits with grants or event sponsorships of up to $35,000. The program supports organizations aligned with USV/SFF values and priorities, emphasizing equitable distribution, measurable community impact, and collaboration with other funders. Applications are submitted through the Foundation’s Temelio grant platform and are open to historically funded nonprofit partners.

The Community Engagement Committee (CEC) Grant Program is designed to amplify the positive impact of U.S. Venture’s philanthropic support in local communities. The CEC, composed of U.S. Venture team members, provides financial support to nonprofits whose missions align with the Foundation’s priorities and values.

Program Objectives

• Fund nonprofit initiatives that create meaningful and lasting community impact

• Support events and projects that align with USV/SFF’s mission and community priorities

• Encourage collaboration among funders to maximize community benefits

• Promote equitable funding distribution among historically supported nonprofit partners

Grant Details

• Maximum Grant/Sponsorship: $35,000 per organization per calendar year

• Eligibility: Nonprofits historically funded by USV/SFF

• Distribution: One grant or sponsorship per charitable organization per year to ensure equitable access

• Use of Funds: Grants may be used for community programs, events, or initiatives aligned with Foundation priorities

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a recognized public charity under IRS guidelines, preferably with 501(c)(3) status

• Align proposals with the Foundation’s giving priorities and community focus

• Provide support documentation from a U.S. Venture team member or shareholder

• Disclose all pending and committed sponsorships, as the Foundation typically does not act as the sole funder

• Be historically funded by USV/SFF

Application Process

1. Access the Temelio grant platform to begin the application process.

2. Prepare information demonstrating your organization’s mission, community impact, and alignment with USV/SFF priorities.

3. Include documented support from a U.S. Venture team member or shareholder.

4. Submit all required information and disclosures about other funding partners directly through Temelio.

5. Applications may be drafted offline for reference, but final submission must be completed in the platform.

6. Access live chat support on Temelio for technical assistance during business hours.

Why It Matters

The CEC Grant Program enables nonprofit organizations to enhance community engagement, deliver impactful projects, and strengthen partnerships with local stakeholders. By emphasizing equitable distribution and collaboration, USV/SFF ensures resources are directed where they can have meaningful and lasting benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply for CEC funding?
Nonprofit organizations historically funded by USV/SFF, preferably with 501(c)(3) status.

What is the maximum funding amount?
Up to $35,000 per organization per calendar year.

Can an organization receive multiple grants in a year?
No, each organization is eligible for only one grant or sponsorship per calendar year.

Are individuals or new nonprofits eligible?
No, applicants must be established nonprofits with a history of funding from USV/SFF.

Does the Foundation act as the sole funder?
No, USV/SFF prefers projects that collaborate with multiple funding sources and requires disclosure of all sponsors.

How do I submit an application?
Applications must be submitted online through the Temelio grant platform. Offline drafts can be used for preparation, but final submission is online.

Is technical support available during the application process?
Yes, Temelio provides live chat support during business hours.

Conclusion

The USV/SFF Community Engagement Committee Grant Program offers historically funded nonprofits the opportunity to expand their community impact, support meaningful projects, and collaborate with other funders. By providing up to $35,000 per organization and emphasizing equitable distribution and alignment with Foundation priorities, the program strengthens community development and fosters sustainable local engagement.