grant application

Frequently asked Questions

Eligibility & Application Process

• Who is eligible to apply for a grant?

  Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or international organizations with the equivalent nonprofit or NGO status in their country are eligible to apply. Non-profits outside the U.S. are also eligible, as long as they have an official charitable designation recognized in their country.

• How does the Sawyer Foundation prioritize projects for funding?

  The Sawyer Foundation prioritizes clean water projects that use hollow fiber membrane filtration and demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainable implementation, data collection, and best practices.

  When reviewing applications, we consider how a project will:

  • Support long-term sustainability in water filtration and access
  • Strengthen best practices through training, follow-up, and local engagement
  • Contribute to data collection or research that improves implementation strategies
  • Offer unique expertise, partnerships, or approaches that enhance global impact

  Applicants are encouraged to highlight how their work adds value to the broader effort to provide clean drinking water and improve filtration effectiveness worldwide.

• How do I apply for a grant?

  To apply, email a single PDF to grants@sawyerfoundation.org with the subject line: “Sawyer Grant Application – [Your Organization Name]”.

  Your application should include:

  • Grant Cover Page (Appendix A)
  • Basic organization and contact information
  • A brief project overview (1–2 pages)
  • A simple budget outline
  • A signed statement of assurance (Appendix B)

  You may also include optional photos, stories, or links that help explain your work. Total submissions should be 5 pages or fewer, not including attachments. There are no strict formatting rules—just keep it clear and easy to read.

• What is the deadline for applications?

  Grant applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but it is recommended to submit your proposal at least two to three months before your project start date.

• How long does the review process take?

  Applicants can expect to receive a decision or begin a discussion with the Sawyer Foundation team to explore ideas and determine what a potential partnership might look like within two weeks of submission.

• Can I apply if I have received funding from the Sawyer Foundation before?

  Yes, previous grant recipients may reapply, but they must demonstrate the impact of prior funding and provide updated project details. However, priority will be given to non-profits that have not previously received a grant from the Foundation.

  Organizations that applied for a grant in the past but did not receive funding are still eligible to apply again.

Funding & Use of Funds

• What is the grant size?

  Grants range from $1,000 to $25,000.

  Grant funds are typically disbursed in a single payment; however, the final amount and disbursement schedule will be determined by the Sawyer Foundation. If funds are distributed in installments for any reason, we will ensure the recipient organization agrees to the terms before proceeding.

• What can grant funds be used for?

  Grant funds must support clean water projects that improve access to safe drinking water using proven filtration or purification methods. Funds may be used for implementation support (e.g., travel, local stipends, training materials, and supplies), follow-up activities (e.g., monitoring and data collection), and other essential program costs. Grant funds may not be used to purchase water filters.

  We encourage transparency and responsible stewardship to ensure long-term impact and alignment with community needs.

• Can funds be used for salaries or administrative costs?

  Funds should primarily support project implementation and operations. Limited administrative expenses may be included within the operational expenses category.

Project Implementation & Reporting

• What are the reporting requirements?

  Grantees are required to submit a brief one-page report within 60 days of project completion, highlighting the impact of the Sawyer Foundation’s funding. High-quality photos may also be requested for marketing and communications purposes.

  Grantees must maintain simple records of how grant funds are used for the duration of the project (up to three years), attend quarterly virtual check-ins with the Foundation team, and participate in follow-up communication as needed.

• Is there a required timeline for project completion?

  Projects should be completed within two years of receiving funding. Extensions may be granted under special circumstances.

• Do I need to follow specific implementation guidelines?

  Yes. Projects should follow recognized best practices for hollow fiber membrane filter distribution, training, and follow-up to ensure long-term success. If Sawyer water filters are used, Sawyer’s Best Practices document may serve as a helpful model.

• What happens if the project does not go as planned?

  If significant challenges arise, grantees should communicate promptly with the Sawyer Foundation to discuss adjustments or alternative solutions.

• Can we meet with someone from the Foundation before applying?

  Yes! We highly recommend setting up a pre-grant writing meeting with the team at the Sawyer Foundation. At this meeting, we'll discuss components of the grant proposal and answer any questions you have prior to completing the document. To request a meeting, email grants@sawyerfoundation.org.

• Are there additional resources or support available for applicants?

  Yes! Applicants are invited to join the Sawyer Foundation’s quarterly webinars, which provide tips and strategies to enhance your organization’s effectiveness. These sessions focus on strengthening donor engagement, improving fundraising efforts, storytelling, and maximizing the impact of your clean water projects with Sawyer filters.

  If you’d like to attend a webinar and aren’t on our email list yet, email us at events@sawyerfoundation.org to be added and receive details about the next session.