This information was compiled to help New Hampshire charter schools quickly identify foundations and giving programs they may qualify for. This summary will identify four separate foundations that we believe offer charters the highest probability of success.

It’s important to note that most foundations typically do not accept unsolicited proposals. Instead these foundations employ staff who research and identify programs they believe the foundation would be interested in supporting. When a program like this is found, an “invitation” is then sent asking the school or program to submit a “formal proposal” for funding.

Our view is that because New Hampshire charter schools are small, with limited public
exposure, the odds that these institutions will find them on their own is relatively low. This is why our research has focused on Grant Makers who not only support education and education reform, but also accept “unsolicited letters of inquiry”. This can give the charter school an opportunity to introduce itself to foundations or entities which otherwise might not know they exist.

The four foundations we’ve selected have all given to charters in the past, give nationally or in our area and all accept “unsolicited letters of inquiry”.

Following the foundation’s guidelines, a 1-2 page letter of inquiry can then be tailored to appeal to each foundation.

The foundations are:
The Louis Calder Foundation
The Eli & Edythe Broad Foundation
The Lynde & Harry Bradley Foundation
The Achelis Foundation

We have enclosed contact and summary information for all foundations. I hope you find this information helpful and if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Matt Southerton
New Hampshire Center for School Reform