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Frequently

Asked Questions

Team
  • What are the Trust’s interest areas?
    The Trust invests in organizations that provide services to families (children, youth, adults) and or/beautify public green space.
  • Where does the Trust make grants?
    Niagara and Erie Counties, with a special interest in organizations serving people in the Black Rock/Riverside area.
  • What is the average grant size?
    While there are no minimum or maximum size requirements, most Trust grants fall between $10,000 - $25,000.
  • How much does the Trust award in grants on an annual basis?
    Approximately $280,000.
  • How often may my organization apply for funding?
    Beginning in 2026, the Trust will consider requests every other year.
  • Does the Trust make multi-year years?
    The Trust will consider multi-year grant requests.
  • Does the Trust make general operating grants?
    The Trust will consider grant requests for general operating funds.
  • Does the Trust fund capital campaign or equipment requests?
    The Trust will consider grant requests for capital campaign and equipment expense.
  • Will the Trust fund matching grant requests?
    The Trust will consider requests for matching grant funds.
  • Does the Trust fund organizations, programs and/or projects using a pass-through entity or organization?"
    No.
  • What is the due date for letters of inquiry?
    The Trust accepts letters of inquiry through May 31. Applicants will be notified by June 30 if a full application is desired.
  • May I submit more than one letter of inquiry?
    No, only one letter of inquiry per organization per funding cycle is accepted.
  • May I submit a letter of inquiry if my organization currently has an active grant?
    No, an organization may only have one active grant at any given time.
  • What is the due date for grant applications?
    The due date for grant applications is August 31.
  • Are grant reports required?
    Yes, grant reports are required. A report template will be provided.
  • May I invite Trustees for a site visit prior to submitting a grant request?
    No, due to the volume of grant requests received, Trustees are not available for site visits to organizations that are considering submitting a request.
  • May I present my idea to Trustees prior to submitting a grant request?
    No, only projects submitted through the letter of inquiry process are considered for funding.
  • Who do I contact if I have a question?
    Please submit your question to info@ellistrustwny.org You will receive a reply within five working days.
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© The Paul & Helen Ellis Charitable Trust

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